Police have launched a high-visibility operation for this year’s Thrifty Newcastle 500 to ensure race enthusiasts enjoy the event safely.
The Supercars Championship has returned to Newcastle for the first time since 2019, with practice laps tomorrow (Friday 9 March 2023), and the final race taking place on Sunday (12 March 2023).
Operation NEWCASTLE 500 was officially launched today by Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Peter McKenna APM, to ensure the safety of the thousands of racegoers expected in Newcastle this weekend.
General duties officers from Newcastle City Police District and across Northern Region, will be assisted by specialist police, from the Public Order and Riot Squad (PORS), Operations Support Groups (OSG), Dog Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Bicycle Unit, Youth Command (PCYC), Police Transport Command and Traffic & Highway Patrol Command throughout the operation.
“We want everyone to have a great time at this family-friendly event, which is why any anti-social or dangerous behaviour will not be tolerated,” Assistant Commissioner McKenna said.
“Local officers and specialist police will be out in force across the event, focusing on road safety, crowd behaviour, alcohol-related violence, and minimising the impact of the event on the local community.
“With tens of thousands of people expected over the three-day event, police are urging motorists to be patient, remain vigilant with speed and fatigue, and drive to the conditions,” Assistant Commissioner McKenna said.
Additional Traffic & Highway Patrol officers will also be deployed to ensure racegoers and other motorists make it to and from their destinations safely.
“The only people who should be driving fast this weekend are the supercar drivers on the track,” Assistant Commissioner McKenna said.
“If you’re drinking ensure you have a ‘Plan B’ to get to and from the event. Importantly, respect others at the event, be patient, and make sure you are doing the right thing so everyone can have a good time and enjoy the event safely,” he added.
For all special event traffic information, including road closures, special event clearways and live traffic reports, visit www.livetraffic.com
Further information about the event, including venue maps, transport and parking availability, can be found at: www.supercars.com/newcastle/
