Men Deny Charges Over Anzac Day Service Disruption
Three men connected to the neo-Nazi organisation National Socialist Network have declared they will contest charges relating to the alleged disruption of Melbourne's Anzac Day Dawn Service earlier this year. Jacob Hersant, Nathan Bull, and Michael Nelson, all in their twenties, appeared at Melbourne Magistrates Court on Monday, where each formally entered not guilty pleas.
Details of the Alleged Incident
The authorities claim the men were part of a small group that interrupted the solemn Dawn Service at the Shrine of Remembrance on April 25. The incident occurred during a Welcome to Country ceremony performed by Bunurong elder Uncle Mark Brown. It is alleged he was heckled in front of a crowd of approximately 50,000 attendees. Police subsequently escorted Jacob Hersant, a known figure within the National Socialist Network, from the area.
The trio faces multiple charges, including behaving offensively in public, offending decency within the Shrine reserve, and participating in a disturbance.
Court Proceedings and Wider Implications
During the hearing, Magistrate Brett Sonnet inquired how the defendants intended to respond to the allegations. Nathan Bull informed the court he had consulted his lawyer and requested an adjournment until Thursday. This coincides with a separate court appearance for Bull, who is alleged to have performed a banned Nazi salute at a Melbourne cinema in March of the previous year.
The prosecution did not oppose the adjournment and indicated that at least 13 witnesses, including police officers and civilians, could be called to testify during the proceedings. While Bull confirmed he has legal representation and Hersant stated he would apply for legal aid, Michael Nelson told the court he is ineligible for legal aid and plans to represent himself.
The disruption sparked widespread condemnation from community leaders, veterans, and political figures, including Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, and prompted renewed debate about security at major public ceremonies. Magistrate Sonnet adjourned the matter until Thursday to allow for further preparation and scheduling.
