Police are urging festival-goers to celebrate safely and responsibly at the New Year’s Day music festival, Field Day, in Sydney’s Domain.
The event takes place from 12pm tomorrow (Tuesday 1 January 2019), and concludes at 11pm.
A police operation will be in place for the festival involving officers from the Central Metropolitan Region, with assistance from specialist units including the Dog Unit, Licensing Police, and Police Transport Command.
Officers will maintain a high-visibility presence throughout the day, focusing on anti-social behaviour, alcohol-related crime, and illegal drug use and supply.
Police Operation Commander, Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Bell, said anyone who tries to bring illegal drugs into the festival can expect to be caught.
“Police will be out for the duration of the festival as thousands of people are expected to descend on the venue to celebrate the start of the New Year,” Det Ch/Insp Bell said.
“We want people to enjoy the festival but not at the expense of other’s safety, so make sure you behave responsibly and think before you drink.
“The community are reminded that this is an over 18s event, and police will deal with any anti-social or criminal behaviour swiftly,” Det Ch/Insp Bell said.
Last year, more than 160 people were arrested and charged with the possession of prohibited drugs.
“The possession or supply of prohibited drugs is a serious criminal offence. Those thinking of bringing substances into the event are reminded there will be uniformed and plain-clothed police patrolling the festival, which will include the use of drug-detection dogs,” Det Ch/Insp Bell said.
“Not only are they illegal, prohibited drugs can be extremely harmful to your health, and are potentially life-threatening, particularly combined with alcohol.
“We repeat these warnings every year and will continue to prioritise the safety and wellbeing of all festival-goers. We want Field Day 2019 to be an incident-free event,” Det Ch/Insp Bell said.
Anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or who feels unwell, is urged to seek professional medical attention.
“With warm weather anticipated, we strongly encourage revellers to look out for one another, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water – not alcohol – keep cool, and be sun smart,” Det Ch/Insp Bell said
“Poor choices can have serious consequences and we urge all people attending these festivals to remain safe, look after your friends, and don’t risk your health or your good reputation,” he added.
Festival-goers are asked to utilise public transport and plan your trip to event ahead of time. Visit www.transport.nsw.info for the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries, light rail and taxi ranks.
Police are also reminding those who may be planning to gain access to the event without a ticket that officers will be present at perimeter gates to ensure their security.
Ticketholders are also warned not to bring alcohol into The Domain and to make sure they have their photo ID available for inspection upon entry.
Further information on the festival, including venue maps and conditions of entry, can be found at the official event website https://www.fieldday.sydney/
