Opposition grows to freeway expansion
By Jeremy Smith
MELBOURNE — Three hundred and fifty people attended a demonstration organised by the Coalition Against Freeway Expansion (CAFE) here on September 18. The level of community support for the campaign was evident in the turnout of residents who braved the worst of Melbourne's weather to express their opposition to Vicroads' planned expansion of the F19.
As the rally weaved through Fitzroy, community activists dived into local cafes to spread their pro-public transport message. Meanwhile, speakers drew attention to the problems that the Kennett government's development plans will create.
The procession continued on to the Carlton address of Bill Baxter, the minister responsible for Vicroads. The proximity of the minister's house to the freeway was an irony not lost on the demonstrators. His front gate was draped in photocopies of 4000 petitions of those opposed to Vicroads' plans.
Future actions will take the form of a continuous vigil on Alexandra Parade, with residents pledging to blockade work when work begins in earnest to widen the road. Currently, auxiliary work is being carried out by other utilities such as Gas and Fuel, and Melbourne Water.
On September 20, 40 CAFE activists picketed a pre-tenderers' meeting of potential contractors held at Vicroads. A mock auction of the environment, people's health and public transport was conducted by CAFE activist Kevin Healy.
The action was designed to let contractors know what they will be in for if they accept the work. This action, like many in the campaign so far, received fair support from the mass media.
CAFE is planning a symbolic blockade of Alexandra Parade in October before construction starts.
[CAFE meets every Tuesday night at 7pm at Friends of the Earth, 312 Smith St, Collingwood.]