Anti-mask protesters gather at Melbourne Shrine of Remembrance
Members of a group holding Australian Red Ensign flags were moved on by police. Getty
Police have moved on anti-mask protesters holding Australian flags who gathered at Melbourne's Shrine of Remembrance.
About 30 people gathered at the city landmark just before 7am and held a minute's silence.
The protesters said their motivation was to "exercise their claim to freedom".
Police attended the scene and instructed the protesters to leave.
The gathering comes after Premier Daniel Andrews criticised event organisers yesterday as Victoria recorded its highest number of cases and deaths.
Police said they were prepared for the event.
"There will be a highly visible police presence at the event and if people do attend, and are found to be in breach of the directions issued by the Chief Health Officer, they will be subject to enforcement action," a spokesman said.
"Anyone found to be blatantly, deliberately or obviously breaching the Chief Health Officer directions can expect to receive a fine of $1652."
More people are expected to gather at the site at 10am today.
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