'Get Back to Work!': The Tide Turns at the Tunnel Picket

'Bacon and Eggs, please'

I was amused to hear today from somebody who should know that there is now solid evidence that the tide of public opinion is turning in our direction.
Though I must admit we picketers still get the occasional: 'Get a job' yelled from passing cars, increasing numbers of motorists are shifting the focus of their ire to another group entirely. Apparently the breakfasting police on the neighbouring median strip are now regularly having their bacon and eggs peppered with vehement cries of 'Get Back to Work!'
Perhaps the recognition of Paul Mees, the wonderful public transport advocate, who received an OAM in the Australia Day awards, is yet another portent. Paul spoke via video link from hospital for the last time in June last year at the launch of the Trains Not Tollroads campaign at the Fitzroy Town Hall. His death the following week was a huge loss to his family, friends, admirers and our campaign. I think we can best honour the memory of the 'professional provocateur' by following his lead in refusing to entertain the possibility of defeat.

6am briefing by Anthony

As Anthony pointed out, there are other positive signs as well. Due to our involvement, the drillers are running well behind schedule. A spin-off of this is that the final shameful act in the Compulsory Acquisitions process might also be delayed.
There are murmurings too that some Labor Ministers are wavering in their resolution to 'honour' contracts if signed by the Liberals.
And at the start of this new week it was heartening to see new protestors joining our ranks.

Carolyn - new today and hitting the ground running

Carolyn instantly volunteered to distribute the Another Toll of the East West Link? leaflet in her neighbourhood.

Justin

Justin, whom I meet regularly at our local Food Swap, is a veteran activist, who felt the time is just right to join the Tunnel Picket.
Let Victoria Vote, a group determined to make spending on improved public transport the electorate issue, were also well-represented today. The group has a large and increasing influence, especially via twitter.

Tanya, Keith and Becks: 3 stalwarts

Walking home, I imagined what Paul Mees would make of our picket. I have no doubt he would be impressed with the commitment, creativity and diversity of the group. And he would be even more adamant that we can win.