Melbourne’s bustling Federation Square came to a standstill on Tuesday afternoon as more than 200 people performed an Indigenous war dance in support of Sydney Swans player Adam Goodes.

Onlookers watched in silence as the group shouted “fight racism”, made spear-throwing motions and raised their fists in the air in unison.

The dance was inspired by Goodes’ performance at the MCG two months ago, which sparked ongoing controversy amongst fans and commentators and intensified an ongoing booing campaign against the decorated footballer.

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Goodes returned to training with the Swans on Tuesday after a week off and is expected to take to the field for Saturday’s match against Geelong.

Richard Frankland, organiser of the flash mob and Indigenous artist and performer, said the idea came about after students at the Victorian College of Arts expressed concern for Goodes.

He said the students wanted to make a united statement, using the same style of war dance Goodes was criticised for.

“All (Goodes) did was open a door Australia was too scared to look through – not all of Australia, just some of us, but those who do look through see this wonderful beautiful opportunity,” he said.

Mr Frankland said he was overwhelmed by the number of people who wanted to join the flash mob, after word spread late last week.

“It looks like it’s been well and truly owned by people and that’s great.”

Koori woman and one of the flash mob participants Tammy Anderson said it was an emotional experience to share with the group.

“A generation of trauma has risen up for a nation and it’s deep, it’s more than just football,” she said.

“But we’re fighters, we’re here to stay and we’re going to stop racism.”

She said the term war dance was too often sensationalised, when the intention was a physical expression of culture.

“Everyone’s scared of these invisible spears so we have to throw something back with our words.”

– ABC