Revellers urged to give the bird after terror threat
Robyn Wuth |
Revellers are being urged to give an Australia Day middle finger to terrorists after police foiled an alleged plot to attack one of the nation’s most popular tourism spots.
A student accused of planning to throw a Molotov cocktail at Australia Day crowds in the Gold Coast remains behind bars.
City leaders have urged the community to turn out in force and send a message that hate will not win, with security bolstered.
Sepehr Saryazdi allegedly planned the attack for Monday’s celebrations in Queensland as part of a plot to overthrow the government.
The 24-year-old is accused of targeting a Gold Coast event, allegedly posting online that he would be leading Australia Day “riots” on the popular tourist strip.
Mayor Tom Tate said the threat was over and urged the community to celebrate.
“If you don’t go along and celebrate Australia Day, as per last year, and then you actually have let the terrorists win in your mind, so don’t let them win,” he said.
“Get out there with friends and family, and let’s go out there. And when everyone yells out, Aussie, Aussie, Aussie, let’s say together Oi Oi Oi and give a middle finger to the terrorists.”
Mr Tate said Queensland police had briefed city officials over the alleged plot and were confident the accused terrorist was working alone.
“There will be sufficient security. We’ll have our own security and the police will be here also,” he said.
“Police have already said to me that there is no additional threat at all whatsoever.”
Saryazdi has a master of mathematical sciences from the University of Sydney, according to his online profiles.
He also described himself as a PhD candidate with the CSIRO data and digital specialist arm and Australian Centre for Robotics.
Saryazdi intended to make national news and bring people together with attention to his disenchantment with the government, his Legal Aid solicitor Hellen Shilton told a bail hearing on Thursday.
He had an isolated lifestyle and lost contact with his parents since moving interstate to Brisbane, she said.
A March for Australia protest has also been planned to coincide with Australia Day activities on the Gold Coast.
Organisers claim it will be the largest protest ever staged in Queensland, but Mr Tate is unconcerned.
“If they’re marching because of their point of view, fair enough,” he said
“But if they’re shouting hate speech, then it’s not Australian, especially on Australia Day.”
AAP
