The NSW Police Force is encouraging residents from the Port Stephens-Hunter Police District to stay local this New Year’s Eve and enjoy celebrations from home.
A high-visibility policing operation will be in place on Thursday 31 December and Friday 1 January to ensure the safety of the community.
Locally, it will involve general duties police from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, as well as the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command.
Commander Superintendent Chad Gillies said officers would be out and about across the community focusing on public safety, alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.
“Although this year’s celebrations look very different to previous events, we still want everyone to see out 2020 safely and have a memorable start to 2021,” he added.
“We are urging residents to stay local and celebrate at home this year, ensuring the Public Health Order guidelines for gatherings are followed.
“For those who do go out and about, expect to see plenty of police officers.
“We have zero tolerance for dangerous, criminal or anti-social behaviour, so anyone caught putting other people’s lives at risk, or spoiling the fun for others, will be dealt with swiftly.
“Our best advice is to plan ahead how you are getting to and from your selected celebrations – whether it be public transport, pre-arranged transport or organising a designated driver.”
Superintendent Gillies’ message was reiterated by Operation New Year’s Eve 2020 Commander Assistant Commissioner Mick Willing.
“We’re urging the community to heed the advice and celebrate locally,” he said.
“There will still be significant numbers of officers deployed for Operation New Year’s Eve, who will be focused on keeping everyone safe, whether celebrating at an event in the CBD, suburban Sydney or regional NSW like the Hunter.”
For more information on the Public Health Orders for gatherings, visit https://www.nsw.gov.au/…/what-you-can-and-cant-do-under
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