Victoria police to review Midsumma footage after protesters confronted police marchers | Australia news

Police are investigating after protesters confronted participants in the annual Midsumma Pride March in Melbourne.

A contingent of about 100 people from Victoria police, including the chief commissioner, Shane Patton, were among the more than 15,000 marchers who participated in the event in St Kilda on Sunday.

The march is one of the signature events at the Midsumma festival celebrating solidarity in gender and sexual diversity.

Victoria police joined hundreds of community groups for the day of parade, pride and party, with people lining streets and balconies as marchers headed down Fitzroy Street in St Kilda.

“Today was the 22nd year our members have proudly taken part in the march in uniform, joining the community in celebrating inclusion, culture, respect, and pride,” a Victoria police spokesperson said on Sunday.

The police contingent – which included sworn officers, the pipe band, public servants, protective services officers and children marching alongside their parents – was confronted by up to 50 protesters as they began their march about 1.50pm.

Police said the protesters surrounded the contingent on three sides, attempted to stop members from marching and threw a number of items at them.

The public order response team physically removed the protesters from the area.

Police said a protester arrested for assaulting a spectator had been released pending further investigation.

Police will review footage of the incident to determine if further action is required.

Police said they were “disappointed” a small group of people were intent on disrupting what was a proud and inclusive day.

“Today should be a celebration and not one of hate,” a police spokesperson said.

“We are proud of our members who were able to complete the march in a hostile environment.”