Convoy supporters line a highway in Manitoba to cheer on the truckers.

By TONY MOBILIFONITIS
TRUCKERS from the US are crossing the Canadian border (some 10,000 according to one recent report) to join the tens of thousands of their Canadian comrades pouring into the Canadian capital Ottawa in a massive pro-freedom rally. Aussie truckers are heading to Canberra with the same message.

The protest is shaping up to be one of the biggest political events in Canadian history. A convoy stretching 70km is coming in from the eastern provinces. Reports emerged of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau getting COVID and deciding to “isolate” for five days.

Trudeau said on Thursday he was isolating at home after learning he was “exposed to someone who tested positive for COVID-19”. The pansy PM tweeted that his rapid test was negative but he was “following public health rules and isolating for five days. He learned he was exposed on Wednesday night.

“The GoFundMe campaign for the Canadian protest has passed $6 million. Concerns over distribution of the funds were sorted out and money was being distributed for truck fuel, drivers’ fuel and accommodation. One supporter’s son organised 1800 gift cards.

Drivers can sleep in cabs but with sub-zero Canadian winters, it’s not the best option, although diesel and electric cabin heaters help the cause. One trucker in the Ottawa area reported -23C. Another -25C. Supporters were urged to bring extra clothing to cope with the cold.

The progress of the rally could be listened to live on a YouTube Channel linked to a Zello walkie talkie app. Listeners including children worldwide chimed in with short messages from as far afield as Sweden, the UK, Australia and Alaska. “You’re all angels,” a cockney voice from the UK said. “We’re standing with you,” a young girl said.

Organisers stayed continually in touch on the radio app, ensuring convoys converged smoothly and giving traffic updates. Moderators dealt with technical issues and blocked potential trouble makers. Truckers were encouraged with official support coming from Donald Trump Jnr. Canada Post workers, plumbers and health care workers also posted messages of support.

Organisers scoffed at media reports that there would be 2000 gathering in Ottawa. “Let them think that and get a surprise,” someone quipped.