Council Cites Public Order Concerns
Randwick Council is attempting to stop a Pro Palestine community event scheduled for 10am on May 3rd at Coogee Beach. The event is organized by Jews Against the Occupation ’48 (JAO48) and Eastern Suburbs for Palestine (ES4P).
Fourteen Australians, including JAO48 member Anny Mokotow, are participating in the Global Sumud Flotilla. They aim to challenge Israel’s nineteen-year naval blockade of Gaza and deliver humanitarian aid to Palestinians.
The event will not feature any protests. Organizers plan for music, fruit sharing, and origami boat-making. Participants are encouraged to bring keffiyehs, flags, and banners, but no speeches or chants are planned.
During a Randwick Council meeting on April 28th, Councillor Rosenfeld proposed stopping the event due to concerns about public amenity, safety, and environmental impact. Organizers argue no formal approval is required and there’s no evidence of negative impacts.
Organizers Defend Peaceful Intentions
“Our paper boats are arranged on the sand and then carefully collected afterwards,” stated Anny Mokotow, emphasizing the peaceful nature of the gathering. Previous events, like the Origami Flotilla at Bondi Beach, left no environmental footprint.
Cr Rosenfeld has requested assistance from the NSW Premier, NSW Minister for Police, and NSW Attorney General to maintain public order. He referenced the ongoing public consultation on Randwick’s Draft Social Cohesion and Multicultural Plan, which aims to promote harmony and inclusion.
The organizers have invited Randwick Council members to attend, hoping for their participation. They are committed to ensuring safety and enjoyment for all attendees.
The Global Sumud Flotilla was recently intercepted by the Israeli Navy in international waters, an action organizers claim violates international law. They hope the event will raise awareness about the plight of Palestinians and garner support for their cause.
Councillor Rosenfeld’s motion to ban the event is seen by organizers as politically motivated. They argue that it attacks the rights of Australian communities to use public spaces peacefully. Multiculturalism, they emphasise, should include Palestinians, Arabs, Muslims, Jews, Christians, and others, regardless of political views.
Last updated: 3 May 2026, 1:04 am
