‘Party Safely, know your limits and remember Covid-19 is still around’ – that’s the message from senior officers at Tweed/Byron Police District ahead of 2021 end of school celebrations.
School leavers and holiday goers from across NSW and interstate are due to arrive in Byron Bay and other parts of Northern NSW from Sunday (28 November 2021), and are expected to stay till mid-December.
In anticipation of the large crowds, Tweed/Byron Police District will conduct an extensive and high-visibility operation for the duration of the ‘Schoolies’ period, focusing on drug and alcohol-related crime and anti-social behaviour.
Tweed/Byron Police District Officer in Charge at Byron Bay, Detective Chief Inspector Matt Kehoe, said although most restrictions have lifted, this year’s celebrations must be conducted in a COVID-safe environment.
“This has been another extremely tough year for HSC students, and we want to ensure that schoolies celebrations are memorable for all the right reasons,” Det Ch Insp Kehoe said.
“School leavers and holiday goers must do their part to respect our community and keep us safe from Covid-19. Social distancing is the new normal, and we all have to do our bit to stop the spread.” Det Ch Insp Kehoe said.
Police will also be working closely with the Byron Shire Council, Byron Youth Service and Red Frog volunteers to enhance the safety and responsible behaviour of young people, while minimising the disruption to local communities.
“Drugs and alcohol impair your judgement and can lead to risky behaviours or choices which can impact the rest of your life.
“We want to remind school leavers that we aren’t here to ruin the fun – our officers are here to protect you and provide a safe environment to enjoy celebrations in. Please approach police or authorities if you are in danger, if you feel threatened or you are a victim of any type of crime.
General Duties officers from Tweed/Byron Police District will be supported by additional police from across the state throughout the operation.
“With thousands of people expected to fill Byron town centre, we are urging all visitors and locals alike to plan ahead; those not joining in the celebrations are asked to watch out for increased pedestrian activity and keep an eye out on the roads.
“As always, if you’re planning on drinking – you need a Plan B to get yourself home,” Det Ch Insp Kehoe said.
For all information related to schoolies during COVID-19, visit the website: https://www.schoolies.com/covid-19-faq
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report information via NSW Police social media pages.
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