More than 1000 anti-mill protesters heard the continuing theme from prominent speakers before marching across the Batman Bridge yesterday.

Tasmanian-born author Richard Flanagan said yesterday's turnout indicated public opposition to the mill was stronger than ever.

"The lesson of history is that, ultimately, you have to have the consent of the people, and Gunns do not have that consent," Flanagan said.

Former television presenter Peter Cundall was adamant that similar protests would continue until the mill was stopped. "We are going to beat this mill, make no mistake about it," Mr Cundall told the crowd.

Meanwhile, forest industry representatives say they respect the right of people to protest.

Timber Communities Australia state manager Barry Chipman said: "Those people have their right to have their say, but from Timber Communities Australia point of view, there are many thousands of people who want to see the pulp mill built, and are looking forward to that taking place."