Photo Essay: "Peace!" Sydneysiders Walk The Talk

Around 10,000 people gathered in Sydney to send APEC leaders one simple message: "Peace!" Police claims that the combined protest would result in violence were proven ill-founded as people of all walks of life took part in a largely peaceful march from Sydney's town hall to Hyde Park.

Groups taking part ranged from union movements, left political movements, human rights organizations and those who object to Australia being a part of the United States' war in Iraq.

Thousands objected to US president George Bush being hosted in Sydney for the APEC leaders summit. People of all races, ages and communities took part in the march which culminated with a festival atmosphere inside Hyde Park.

There was little unrest. Police arrested a total of 18 people - five after two officers were injured in a scuffle and three other men (two of whom were on the Police APEC blacklist) were detained but later released. Organisers estimated 10,000 people took part in the march and criticized Police of exaggerating security concerns. The Police presence and tactics was overkill they said.

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New Zealand Green Party MP, Keith Locke attended the protest, supporting those seeking peace and liberty.

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