Thousands of people are expected to attend Ballarat tomorrow to enjoy the Spilt Milk music festival at Victoria Park.
Police have been working closely with the event organisers, local council and health services to plan for the festival, which is being held in Victoria for the first time.
The focus for police will be on ensuring road safety to and from the festival, public order around town after the festival and the trafficking or dealing of illicit substances.
There will be a range of specialist units supporting frontline police at the festival tomorrow to detect and deter any illegal or anti-social activity, including transit police, Mounted Branch and highway patrol
Police are looking forward to welcoming the new event to Ballarat and wanted to ensure it is celebrated in a safe manner.
Inspector Dan Davison said police would be at the event in high numbers to make sure everyone arrives, enjoys and leaves safely.
“This is an opportunity to really showcase all the great things Ballarat has to offer, and we know most people will be coming out to enjoy the festival for what it is, without putting themselves in danger,” he said.
“However, we do know a small number of people may choose to do the wrong thing.
“Let me be clear – if you are coming to this event to deal or traffick illicit substances, police will arrest you and we will apply the full force of the law.
“For those attending tomorrow, we encourage you to keep an eye out on your mates and make smart decisions.
“We will also be highly visible on the roads to detect and deter any activity, including drug driving, that could be dangerous to the broader community.
“We will continue our efforts long after the festival finishes to ensure those celebrating around town are doing so safely and responsibly.”
