NSW Police launch Operation Goldsmith ahead of Australia Day celebrations
Police have launched Operation Goldsmith this morning to ensure safe and secure celebrations across NSW ahead of the national holiday tomorrow.
Millions of people are expected to attend events across the Sydney CBD and harbour foreshore areas – as well as local celebrations throughout NSW – to mark Australia Day tomorrow (Thursday 26 January 2017).
Operation Goldsmith, a high-visibility policing strategy, will be in place involving General Duties officers, with assistance from specialist units including the Police Transport Command, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order & Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Licensing Police, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, PolAir and Marine Area Command.
Operation Goldsmith Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Kyle Stewart, said Australia Day is about coming together as a community to celebrate everything that’s great about being Australian.
“No matter how you choose to celebrate this Australia Day we urge you to remember the coveted national culture of ‘mateship’ – look out for one another and enjoy your day safely,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“We will have a significant policing presence across the metropolitan and regional areas to ensure all members of the community and visiting tourists can enjoy our national holiday in a family-friendly environment.
“If you’re planning to have a drink – do so in moderation and know your limits, “Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“We’re not trying to spoil anyone’s fun – we want you to look out for yourself, your family and your friends so you can enjoy the day’s festivities safely.”
In addition, police are reminding the community to check event information, especially relating to alcohol-free zones, as police will take action against anyone found in possession of alcohol in these areas.
Members of the public should also remember that glass is prohibited in some of the event areas so ensure you check conditions of entry.
For details about what’s happening in your area and further event-related information, visit the official Australia Day website: http://www.australiaday.com.au/
Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said those planning to attend events in the Sydney CBD or harbour foreshore areas are reminded to plan their trip and utilise public transport.
“A number of road closures will be in place to ensure the safe passage of crowds – particularly within the Sydney CBD and Milsons Point – throughout the day,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“Your best bet is to therefore leave the car at home and take advantage of the additional public transport services on offer.
“Significant crowds are also expected to attend the Australia Day Spectacular event in Darling Harbour from 6pm – so please be patient as you make your way out of the area,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“Those who must drive should plan their journey in advance via livetraffic.com, allow extra travel time and expect delays.
“If you’re planning to drink ensure you have a ‘Plan B’ as both marked and unmarked police cars will be on patrol so don’t take the risk as you will get caught,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“The same applies for the following morning. If you’ve had a number of drinks and believe you may still be over the limit, then don’t take the risk. Police will be performing random drug and alcohol tests across the state’s roads throughout the day.”
Motorists are reminded there will be a number of special event clearways in place so ensure you check signage before parking your car, as it may be towed and fines apply.
A comprehensive Australia Day transport guide – with information for travel to and from events from 7am – is available by visiting www.transportnsw.info.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart also urged those planning to enjoy their day on the water to check the weather conditions and ensure they have the proper safety equipment on-hand.
“Australia Day is one of our busiest annual events on Sydney Harbour. The Marine Area Command and other maritime authorities will be out in force to ensure vessels are complying with maritime laws,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“It is the responsibility of the skipper to make sure they have all the required safety equipment – most importantly, life jackets – on board their vessel and it’s in good, working condition.
“In recent weeks we have seen a number of tragic drownings so make sure you’re taking the necessary precautions so you and your passengers are safe and secure on the water this Australia Day,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
“If you’re thinking of drinking while boating, think again – the same ‘drink-driving’ rules apply on the water as they do on our roads.”
For anyone heading out onto the water, exclusion zones and movement times apply. Please visit www.maritime.nsw.gov.au/ for further details.
Media Release: January 25, 2017