Police to swarm on protests at Coburg

Police are bracing themselves for the possibility of a violent clash between opposing political groups in Melbourne’s north this weekend.

A rally against racism has been organised for outside the Coburg library on Saturday morning.

In response, a counter-rally of anti-Islam protesters will be held at the nearby Bridges Reserve.

Up to 500 police officers will monitor the area in the hope of preventing a repeat of past ugly clashes between the groups.

Protesters will be searched for weapons and children are urged against attending.

Local traders have been encouraged to remove tables and chairs from the street.