Twelve individuals were charged during a pro-Palestine protest at a defense conference in Sydney, while severe storms wreaked havoc in Queensland, and a grandmother from Gaza was reunited with her family in Sydney after 11 years apart. These events highlight the diverse and impactful occurrences affecting Australian communities this past weekend.

Pro-Palestine Protest in Sydney
On the weekend, hundreds of protesters gathered at the Indo Pacific International Maritime Exposition in Darling Harbour, Sydney, to voice their opposition against the state-government sponsored defense conference. Critics highlighted the presence of major Israeli weapons companies at the event. The Palestine Action Group organized the demonstration, which aimed to blockade the expo. However, police deployed numerous officers, including mounted units, to prevent disruptions. Twelve people were charged, and reports indicated that some protesters were pepper-sprayed during the confrontation.

Severe Storms Hit Queensland
In a separate incident, severe weather swept across Queensland, causing significant disruptions. Large hailstones, some measuring up to 8 centimeters in diameter, were reported in Esk, Queensland. The Bureau of Meteorology issued warnings for flash floods, destructive winds, and potential tornadoes. Thousands of residents were left without power as the storms affected various regions in Queensland and northern New South Wales. The severe weather conditions followed one of the wettest days recorded this year, leading to widespread concern among residents.

Family Reunion at Sydney Airport
In a heartwarming development, Fatma Badra, a 79-year-old grandmother from Gaza, was reunited with her family at Sydney Airport after being separated for 11 years. She was part of the first group of Palestinians to arrive in Australia following a tentative ceasefire plan. Her son, Shamikh, an Australian citizen, had been trying to secure her safe passage to Sydney since late 2023. The reunion was bittersweet, as Fatma had lost significant weight during her wait for evacuation, and her husband had passed away in November 2023. Shamikh expressed the emotional toll of the situation, emphasizing the challenges faced by families affected by the ongoing conflict.

Wrap-up
These events reflect the complex social and environmental landscape in Australia, where political protests, severe weather, and personal reunions intersect. The pro-Palestine protest highlights ongoing tensions regarding international conflicts, while the severe storms serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of the Australian climate. Meanwhile, the reunion of a grandmother with her family underscores the human stories that emerge amid broader geopolitical issues.

Sources
theguardian.com

@hoju-korean.com Editorial Team