A DISGRACEFUL RIOT.

Hastings Standard, Issue 72, 20 July 1896, Page 3

A DISGRACEFUL RIOT.

! CABLES.

ORANGEMEN'S DEMONSTRATION IN VICTORIA. GETS DISTURBED BY THE HOME RULE PARTY. AND A SERIOUS AFFRAY RESULTS. Melbourne, July 20. A disgraceful riot occurred in the suburb of Brunswick on Sunday, arising out of the bitter feeling existing between the Orangemen and Ribbon men. Orange demonstrations in connection with the 12th July had been forbidden, but the Orangemen had resolved to hold a demonstration, and intended to repair in small knots to the place of meeting. In the meantime a meeting was called by the llibbonmen to be held on a vacant section on the route fixed

by the Orangemen, and this meeting was ostensibly for the discussion of Home Rule. The public scenting a row rolled up to the number of about 25,000, and the approach of the first drag occupied by the Orangemen was the signal for a riot.

The Orangemen were dragged from the conveyance, beaten, and their colors torn from their breasts. Stones were thrown and a free fight occurred in the crowd, and many were injured, though not dangerously. One woman was only protected from serious danger, perhaps death, by a circle being drawn around her. Only fifty police were present, and they were powerless, but many arrests were made after the riots. From the information received, it is very evident the affair was a most disgraceful character.