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Roe 8: protester says he will return once move-on notice lapses

Bryce LuffFremantle Gazette

A MAN protesting against Roe 8 said he would return once restrictions tied to a move-on notice lapse.

Beaconsfield resident Peter Koffel, accompanied by his dog Spot, decided to lie down on a path just off Malvolvio Road in Coolbellup.

Mr Koffel blocked the path of a work vehicle about 11.30am this morning as it was undertaking preliminary work at the site.

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He was escorted into the back of a police van before being issued a move-on notice.

Mr Koffel must stay away from the area for 24 hours, or risk 12 months jail or a $12,000 fine.

He said he would be back tomorrow.

“I saw that it was needed and it would encourage others to do the same,” he said, referring to the many supporters who crowded around him.

“There was a need to make a real statement that this freeway should not go ahead.”

Mr Koffel’s stand came after a large number of protestors flocked to the site early this morning, concerned work was about to start on the project.

One protestor was cut free after tying themselves to machinery, with police also making a number of arrests.

Rethink the Link convenor Kim Dravnieks said one man was taken to hospital after collapsing in the heat.

Despite this, Murdoch Police Senior Sergeant Glenn Swannell said it had largely been a peaceful protest.

Roe 8 is the first stage of a plan to extend Roe Highway through to Fremantle.

The State Government is keen to get work under way before the year is out.

Activists will appear before the High Court on Friday after securing a special leave hearing.

They argue all work on the project should cease to allow legal challenges to run their course.