BY OSABUOHIEN VIVIAN-ROSE
Police in Brisbane arrested five people on Friday while clearing a protest camp from a city park to become the main venue for the
2032 Olympic Games.
Environmental campaigners and Indigenous activists had been occupying the park for more than two months in opposition to the planned construction of a 63,000-seat stadium. Authorities had earlier warned demonstrators they would be removed if they refused to leave before work begins next week.
The Queensland government confirmed that the Games Independent Infrastructure and Coordination Authority (GIICA) will officially take control of the site on Monday ahead of major construction activities linked to Australia’s third Olympic Games.
Indigenous groups have continued to push for the protection of the park, known traditionally as Barrambin, or “Windy Place,” arguing it holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the Yagara people. Protesters had hoped construction would be delayed while an application seeking permanent protection for the area is considered by the federal government.
Activists maintained a ceremonial fire at the “Goori Camp Embassy” throughout the protest and vowed to continue peaceful resistance. Witnesses said around 40 police officers arrived at the site early Friday, making initial arrests before giving remaining protesters time to leave.
Tensions later escalated as officers dismantled tents after the deadline expired, leading to three additional arrests during brief scuffles.
The site, home to several old-growth trees, was exempted last year from certain heritage, environmental and planning regulations by the Queensland government. Alongside the new stadium, an aquatics centre is also planned for another section of the park.
In a joint statement, the Queensland government and Brisbane City Council defended the project, describing the redevelopment as a future “world-class destination” that would still include large public open spaces.
Officials added that although peaceful protest is respected, remaining at the site would become unsafe once heavy construction begins.
