Docklands bomb scare

The Docklands community Hub was evacuated and the surrounding area sealed off for several hours on June 12 after police allegedly found explosives in a vehicle parked outside in Harbour Esplanade.

The incident followed the apprehension of Docklands man Samuel Jackson, 31, and a routine search of his car.  Jackson was sought in relation to alleged theft of mail from Watergate apartments.

When the explosives were found in the front passenger compartment at about 9.45 am, police interrupted the regular Tuesday “Mini Maestroes” session at the Hub and the children were evacuated.

The group sang their “goodbye song” from the Waterview Walk footpath as more police converged on the area and the bomb disposal unit sent in a remote-controlled robot to further investigate.

An area bounded by Waterview Walk, Bourke St, Navigation Drive and Collins St was taped off.  Watergate residents were prevented from using Waterview Walk entrances and Waterview Walk businesses were closed.

For the next few hours, the robot and police in protective gear probed the contents of the car before re-opening Harbour Esplanade to car and tram traffic.

Jackson appeared in the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on June 13 charged with conduct endangering life, possessing explosives and a number of other charges.

He was remanded in custody to again appear on August 6.