Woodside Sues Activists Over Hoax Gas Leak That Evacuated Perth HQ
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Woodside is taking three activists to court for a hoax gas leak that led to the evacuation of its Perth headquarters in 2023. Kristin Morrissey, Emil Davey, and Joana Partyka, all members of the Disrupt Burrup Hub group, have been charged with causing a disturbance in a public place and reckless endangerment.
The group, which targeted the Burrup Hub's gas project, used canisters of 'stench gas' to create a scene that was mistaken for a real gas leak. Thousands of workers were evacuated from the building, causing significant disruption to the company's operations.
Woodside is seeking damages for loss of earnings and brand repair, and has requested that the court grant it access to all documents possessed by the activists that identify or contain a description of other persons involved in the planning, preparation, and execution of the incident.
The court case is scheduled to begin on Thursday next week at the WA Supreme Court.
Woodside's Past Controversies
Woodside has a history of environmental activism, with many of its projects facing opposition from local communities. The company has been accused of ignoring the rights of indigenous Australians and failing to properly consult with them on its projects.
Woodside's Burrup Hub project, in particular, has been the subject of much controversy. The project involves the construction of a gas processing plant and an LNG export facility. However, the project has been criticized for its potential to harm the local environment and for the company's failure to properly consult with local Indigenous groups.
The Disrupt Burrup Hub Group
The Disrupt Burrup Hub group, which includes Morrissey, Davey, and Partyka, has been involved in several high-profile environmental activism campaigns in the past. The group has targeted several major corporations, including Woodside, and has been known for its use of direct action tactics.
The Activists' Defenses
Morrissey, Davey, and Partyka have pleaded guilty to charges related to the hoax gas leak, but have maintained that their actions were justified. They argue that their campaign highlighted the risks associated with the Burrup Hub project and drew attention to the company's poor environmental record.
Joana Partyka: 'Far from cowing me, Woodside's legal move serves only to confirm the significant impact of our campaign. Woodside is trying to prevent people from doing this again, because it was so successful.'