In the lead up to the trial, Varnhagen’s legal team issued Spurrier with a subpoena which required her to attend court on Thursday morning. As she arrived, protesters called for her to be prosecuted.
Government lawyers argued an application requiring Spurrier to give evidence should not be allowed as it was taking place against her will and would not add any additional expert evidence.
Justice Judy Hughes rejected Varnhagen’s application this morning.
“I’ve determined there is no relevant evidence that Spurrier can give on the grounds that have been asserted,” she said.
As Spurrier left court, a small but vocal crowd of anti-vaxxers shouted “Shame!” and “I want my job back” as she was escorted to a car accompanied by police and court security officers.
The Chief Public Health Officer has just been escorted from the Supreme Court @9NewsAdel pic.twitter.com/iqREMsNtmC
— Tom Angley (@TomAngley9) April 7, 2022
Health Minister Chris Picton branded the scenes outside court an “absolute disgrace”.
Nicola Spurrier has served her state with distinction at an incredibly difficult time.
Today’s scenes in Victoria Square were an absolute disgrace.
The vast majority of South Australians thank Prof Spurrier, a public servant who has devoted herself to the safety of the public.
— Chris Picton MP (@PictonChris) April 7, 2022
The legal case is challenging the state’s vaccine requirements for healthcare workers. It remains unclear whether SA Police Commissioner Grant Stevens will also be required to give evidence.
Varnhagen has had to work as a labourer after losing her regular employment for refusing a COVID-19 vaccination, the court was told.
