John Butler To Play Climate Blockade Protest

Australian musician John Butler has announced his latest action to combat climate change, performing at Rising Tide’s People’s Blockade in Newcastle.

Butler announced the news on social media on Monday, posting a heartfelt message about his reasoning behind performing at the blockade.

“I’m very happy to be a part of this blockade,” he began.

“I’ve been lucky to have been at a few blockades over the years and I’ve found that without a few passionate people willing to really stand against the madness, our society and culture doesn’t evolve to consider all life and justice for all.

“Justice for our future generations. Justice for country and culture. Justice to get a more true and just political system that represents people and community not corporate profit first.

“I am really honored [sic] to be asked to be a part of this moment.”

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The blockade, which will last ten days from November 19th to 28th, will disrupt coal exports from the Port of Newcastle, currently the world’s largest coal port. A flotilla of protesters and those protesting from land are estimated to make up a 10,000-strong blockade.

According to Rising Tide’s website, Butler is slated to perform alongside the blockade at Horshoe Beach on Saturday, November 23rd. Meanwhile, Gold Coast band Tijuana Cartel, Sydney’s Midnight Tea Party, and The Crooked Fiddle Band will also play over the event’s duration. 

ARIA Award winner John Butler has never been shy about expressing his support for fighting climate change. The singer has participated in the Save The Kimberley and Save Ningaloo Reef campaigns and is an advocate for The Wilderness Society.

In a 2019 opinion piece exclusive to The Music, Butler detailed the urgency of Australia to offer up long-term sustainable solutions to combat climate change, noting that the country is still a large supporter of coal projects and fracking. Butler ended the article with the thought-provoking quote: “Hope is a verb. Hope is made by action, and now is the time to act. What happens in this next decade happens on our watch.” 

More information about the Rising Tide Blockage can be found on their website, meanwhile sonic details about what to expect from John Butler’s set can be found on his website or all streaming services.