While the Ballarat community largely heeded advice and steered clear of protests organised against COVID-19 restrictions in Victoria, police did issue multiple fines for breaches on Saturday.
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Despite a video of an arrest of a Miners Rest woman for allegedly inciting a protest in Ballarat being viewed more than 9 million times and numerous scrawls of graffiti saying 'September 5. We fight back' around Ballarat, only a handful of people appeared to turn out in line with the 'Freedom Day' cause at Bridge Mall on Saturday morning.
The Courier observed about six people walking through Bridge Mall with messages of protest on their masks, such as 'martial law', though none were holding placards or obviously protesting.
Some simply walked through the market at Bridge Mall, while others stood to the side and blended in with market-goers.
Related coverage: Ballarat woman arrested and charged for alleged incitement
There was a heavy police presence throughout Ballarat CBD in anticipation of protest activity, with officers poised to respond to people breaching the Chief Health Officer's directions quickly.
Police cars patrolled, while dozens of police were on foot around Sturt Street and Bridge Mall.
Police were seen speaking with several people not wearing masks.
Victoria Police confirmed protests occurred in Ballarat CBD and at Buninyong on Saturday.
Officers issued eight $1652 infringement notices to people breaching the Chief Health Officer's directions and seven $200 infringements to people for failing to wear a face covering.
The Courier did not observe any arrests being made.
While people were largely responsible in Ballarat, there have been dramatic scenes in Melbourne and Sydney as hundreds swarm the streets in protest against restrictions.
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