Victoria Police has issued a computer-generated image of a guy who they want to talk to in reference to a plot to disrupt the race that stops the country.
On November 1, in the hours before the 2022 Melbourne Cup, a hooded burglar was caught on camera pouring 1000 liters of “oily muck” on the track at Flemington Racecourse.
Extinction Rebellion’s Victorian chapter quickly approved and disseminated video of the event along with a statement from the purported activist outlining his goals.
The group posted on social media, “This morning, XR was approached by pals who had dropped 1000 liters of muck on to Flemington Racecourse ahead of today’s Melbourne Cup celebrations.”
“We wholeheartedly support this person’s viewpoint.
“The wealthy in our society are on notice that when crises worsen and we do not see justice for communities, persons, and animals, ordinary people will be [forced] more and more to engage in these kinds of desperate activities,” the author writes.
Extinction Rebellion published a statement from the putative activist, in which he claimed to be a “problem gambler” and expressed hostility to the flood wall protecting Flemington, horse racing, and gambling.
The statement read, “The racing industry callously disregards the welfare of animals and the community, both locals affected by the floods and those who have been the victims of gambling.”
Although the event briefly made racing fans uneasy, it was ultimately ineffective because racing continued without interruption that day.
After some corrective work, the area was pronounced safe by Racing Victoria stewards. “Despite the dumping, the cup schedule stays the same. The conduct of today’s meeting would not be impacted by RV stewards’ determination that the track is safe for racing, a spokeswoman said at the time.
Victoria Police has made available two pictures today.
One shows a man who they feel can help with their enquiries in a computer-generated image, and another displays a distinctive trailer with a sizable tank, hose, and pump that were used during the event.
Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 is asking anyone who recognized the man to get in touch.
Online comments on the action were divided, with many people supporting and opposing the protester’s message.
Victoria Police have not identified the chemical, despite allegations that the protester dumped a “oily sludge” on the track.
