Hundreds of people have gathered to protest the felling of ancient trees sacred to the Djab Wurrung people ahead of an expected showdown with authorities on Thursday.

Tents are mushrooming across a grassy plain as a 200-strong crowd of Indigenous activists and protesters join the traditional owners in protecting the trees from being destroyed to make way for the duplication of the Western Highway.

Large, cavernous gazebos serve as rooms to house the swelling crowd. There’s a kitchen bursting with crates full of fresh fruit, milk, water, and other supplies. Nearby, another tent serves as lounge room. There are couches and a smouldering fire and piles of warm clothing for anyone who may need it.

The Djab Wurrung camp at the sacred birthing trees, where protesters have been set up for months to prevent the trees being destroyed to make way for the Western Highway expansion. Credit:Justin McManus

A message board hangs nearby, with phone numbers of people offering lifts and suggesting odd jobs. Those feeling physical may want to dig compost holes, a toilet hole, or run a music jam.