Police prepared for major events in Melbourne

Victoria Police has undertaken extensive planning and is well prepared to ensure the safety of those attending events over a massive weekend in Melbourne.

White Night Reimagined will see police out and about to ensure all areas of the CBD and public transport network are safe amid the cultural and vibrant event.

Police will also activate their world class major event policing model for the international expose of talent with the Boomers v USA Basketball at Marvel Stadium and the last round of AFL matches at the MCG.

Commander Tim Hansen said police were well prepared and would have a highly visible presence throughout the events across the city.

“From vibrancy and culture, to world class sport, Victoria Police is looking forward to attending these incredible events across Melbourne and keeping the many visitors coming into the city safe.

“Those planning on attending can be assured there will be a strong and dedicated highly visible police presence across the city.

“As always, our message to anyone thinking of coming into the city to cause trouble is simply don’t bother; you will be arrested and held to account if you break the law.

“We have never been better prepared or equipped to crackdown swiftly on troublemakers in the city, as police will have the support of specialist units such as Highway Patrol, Transit, Operations Response Unit and Mounted Branch.

“We’ll be on the lookout right across Melbourne, including at train stations and on train and tram routes, for any anti-social or criminal behaviour.

“Police will also be forming a ring of steel on the roads surrounding the CBD.

“We are asking anyone thinking of coming along to any of these events, consider how you’re behaviour may impact on the rest of the community’s ability to enjoy what will be a fantastic event.”

Along with the dedicated road policing operation surrounding the CBD, police will also be enforcing several traffic management points across the city to ensure the safety of attendees moving through the activation sites.

Those attending the Boomers v USA Basketball at Marvel Stadium are asked to arrive early for the airport style security screening in place, and to consider not bringing a bag for faster entry.

The events taking place across the city, starting from Thursday until Sunday include:

Thursday 22 August

• White Night Reimagined – 7pm – 12am

• Boomers v USA Basketball at Marvel Stadium – 7pm (gates open 5pm)

Friday 23 August

• White Night Reimagined – 7pm – 12am

• Collingwood v Essendon at the MCG – 7.50pm

Saturday 24 August

• Boomers v USA Basketball at Marvel Stadium – 1.30pm (gates open 11.30am)

• White Night Reimagined – 7pm – 2am

Sunday 25 August

• Richmond v Brisbane at the MCG – 3.20pm

/Public Release. View in full here.