Members of East Gippsland Climate Action Network (EG CAN) held another die-in in Bairnsdale on the 3rd of August calling for action on global warming and the climate emergency. The formula used was very similar to the original protest held a month ago in the Nicholson St Mall but this time the die-in was held in the busy monthly Farmers Market at the Secondary College.
About 50 members and supporters of all ages met at the entrance to the market on McKean Street. All stall holders were informed in advance of the action as were the market organisers. The group, many of whom were adorned in red clothing, proceeded the 100 metres or so to the centre of the market square, banging pots and carrying placards such as “There are no jobs on a dead planet” and “Climate Action Now”. There most of our group lay down beside each other in a single line some covering their faces with shrouds – symbolising a row of cadavers.
As with the Mall protest after three minutes of the die-in a brief message from Swedish teenage activist and strike for climate founder Greta Thunberg was read to protesters and onlookers:
“We are facing a disaster of unspoken sufferings for enormous amounts of people.
And now is not the time for speaking politely or focusing on what we can or cannot say.
Now is the time to speak clearly. Solving the climate crisis is the greatest and most complex challenge that homo sapiens has ever faced.
The main solution, however, is so simple that even a small child can understand it.
We have to stop our emissions of greenhouse gases.”
This ended the protest, where many remained, some handing out pamphlets with contact details, others shopping at the market stalls and a small number of protesters joined in discussions with the crowd. Amongst those doing so was nonagenarian Audrey Porter – perhaps a bit frail to lie down but a strong supporter nevertheless. And unlike the Nicholson Mall die-in on this occasion we had a large and captive audience. Hopefully we will also improve on our impressive number of posts and support on the social media.
Thanks to everyone for their participation, support and encouragement. Undoubtedly EG CAN’s work will now be directed towards supporting the student climate strike on September 20.