FURTHER RIOTS.

Auckland Star, Volume LIX, Issue 233, 2 October 1928, Page 7

FURTHER RIOTS.

FIGHTS ON WHARVES.

Renewal Of Disturbances At

Melbourne.

SEAMEN WIIX. JOIN STRIKERS.

MELBOURNE, this day. A serious fracas between striking waterside workers and free labourers occurred at Melbourne to-day. The volunteer workers were leaving! the Customs House after having registered for work on the waterfront under the Transport Workers' Act when a crowd of between 3000 and 4000 strikers attacked them with, bale-hooks, shovels and their fists. The were chasad and severely beaten before they were allowed to go. Policemen were present in strong force and rescued many of the volunteers after vigorously using their batons on the rioters. They charged the crowd and drove them back. The strikers then directed their attention to several groups of Italians who were also applying for registration. Strong reinforcements of police, however, prevented further disturbances. A number of the volunteers had to be treated in hospitals. So far 400 licenses have been issued, but none of the strikers at Melbourne have applied. The shipowner* are making arrangements to have inter-State vessels worked by volunteers as soon as possible. At a meeting of seamen it was decided not to man any vessels which have been handled by volunteer labour. The Port Adelaide branch of the Waterside Workers' Federation yesterday decided by a large majority to call off the strike. Its members were instructed to register for work this morning. Later in the day the men applied freely for licenses. The Transport Workers' Act came into operation yesterday at Brisbane, Adelaide, and Fremantle as well as at Melbourne. It will be in force at Newcastle to-day. The issue of licenses to workers who register is already proceeding at most of the ports.