NSW police launch high-visibility operation for Bathurst 1000

Police have launched a high-visibility operation for this year’s Repco Bathurst 1000 to ensure race enthusiasts enjoy the event safely.

Supercars Australia ultimate endurance race, Repco Bathurst 1000, begins with practice laps today (Tuesday 30 November 2021), with the main event taking place at 12.15pm on Sunday (5 December 2021).

Traditionally the event has attracted more than 200,000 people to the world-famous Mount Panorama.

With the impact of COVID-19, this year’s attendance will be in line with the major recreation facility requirements to ensure the event complies with the current Public Health Orders and the safety of all attendees.

General duties officers from Chifley Police District and across Western Region will be assisted by specialist police from the Public Order and Riot Squad (PORS), Operations Support Group (OSG), the Dog and Mounted Unit, Licensing Police, Bicycle Unit, Youth Command, Police Transport Command and Traffic and Highway Patrol Command throughout the operation.

Operation Bathurst 2021 Commander, Assistant Commissioner Brett Greentree, was joined by Bathurst Mayor, Councillor Ian North, and Supercars Australia Chief Operating Officer, Mr Shane Howard, this morning to officially launch the operation.

“Police will be out in force and will not only focus on road safety and crowd behaviour but will minimise the impact of the event on the local community,” Assistant Commissioner Greentree said.

“NSW Police and event organisers are also working closely with NSW Health to ensure this year’s Bathurst 1000 is a safe event for everyone attending.

“A COVID-19 Safe plan has been implemented across the event footprint and officers will be monitoring compliance while monitoring licensing arrangements and conducting business inspections and high-visibility patrols,” Assistant Commissioner Greentree said.

Additional Traffic and Highway Patrol officers will be deployed throughout the week to ensure racegoers make it to and from their destinations safely.

“There will be a significant police presence on all roads leading into Bathurst and everyone must obey the traffic legislation – particularly speed limits. Let’s leave racing to the professionals,” Assistant Commissioner Greentree said.

“I again remind those making their way to Mount Panorama to drive to the conditions and show patience and courtesy to other road users.”

For all special event traffic information, including road closures, special event clearways and live traffic reports, visit: www.livetraffic.com.

Supercars Chief Operating Officer Shane Howard said the Repco Bathurst 1000 is one of Australia’s most popular sporting events and one of the pre-eminent motor races in the world.

“We’re thrilled to have thousands of fans back here at the mountain for our flagship event on the calendar, the Repco Bathurst 1000,” Mr Howard said.

“This is the spiritual home of racing in Australia and over the next six days we want fans to enjoy themselves in safe manner, taking in everything the mountain has to offer.”

Further information about the event, including venue maps, track schedules and parking availability, can be found at: https://www.supercars.com/bathurst1000/

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