The crowd builds up

There is a good atmosphere among the protesters, and with an hour and a half to go, it is more like a day out at the fun fair than a political protest. The overwhelming majority of the early protesters are young, many younger than 20 and presumably students. "Hanson is a puppet and Howard pull the strings" they shout. Although there is a lack of punch to the protest, it has more to do with the low numbers than any lack of enthusiasm. Slowly, the crowd builds up.

The protest is well-organised. Pamphlets, publications and placards are readily available.