Aussie TV Host Rips Climate Activist To Shreds Over 'Disruptive' Protest

Sunrise host David Koch has slammed a climate protester who held up rail traffic in Sydney's Port Botany.

Emma Dorge, who suspended herself over a freight line blocking trains, appeared on the morning show this morning (March 25) and said she was taking action against climate change.

She said: "(I'm) taking targeted, strategic direct action that can materially disrupt the functioning of Australia and give us a chance at changing the exploitative, extractive and destructive system that is killing us all."

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Kochie, seemingly frustrated with Dorge's answer, went on to ask: "Why do you think you've got the right to disrupt other people's lives?

"What gives you the right to decide to make people late for work or late getting to a hospital or school just because you're antsy about something?"

However, the climate protester defended her actions and said she hasn't 'disrupted' the commuter rail line.

"The reason why we need to do this, and it's not fun, is because without this disruption we're not being listened to," she said. "Everybody's future is at stake."

While Kochie 'agreed' with Dorge's actions to raise awareness of climate change, the talk show host questioned her tactics in raising the issue.

"Why disrupt everybody else's life because you've got a bee in your bonnet?" he asked. "Can I have your home address so when I'm angry about something I'll go and block your house and disrupt your life? Can I do the same thing?

"Do you think you're a bit arrogant?"

However, Dorge said she's doing this because natural disasters keep unfolding in Australia and wants to instil 'hope' for future generations.

Kochie ended the heated exchange by saying: "We got you up because we just wanted to hear from a pest and what they looked and sounded like. I'd just snip the wires. It's ridiculous."

Dorge's is part of Blockade Australia, an action group, and Friday marks the fourth consecutive day their protests have blocked traffic.

Earlier this week, two German brothers were charged with obstructing a driver's path and not obeying the direction of police after suspending themselves over poles in the Port Botany area.

The protests led to traffic blockage towards the Sydney Airport and port area, leading to many road closures and traffic diversions.

Following these demonstrations in Sydney, Acting NSW Premier Paul Toole has threatened to introduce stricter penalties for protesters who cause major traffic disruptions.

Topics: climate change, News, Australia