THERE is a heightened terror alert Australia-wide but police have been briefed and are urging locals to support Anzac Day commemorations across the New England.
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Thousands are expected to attend services today and town centres will be bursting with visitors.
Although there’s limited trading for some, many shops are likely to take advantage of the Anzac Day public holiday to remain closed.
Only shops holding exemptions or meeting strict criteria can open their doors before 1pm today.
Exempt or small shops under the state’s Retail Trading Act can trade as normal and these include chemists, florists, newsagencies, pet stores, hotels, restaurants, cafes and petrol stations.
Others need to have applied for a permit to trade.
Meanwhile, Operation Lionheart was launched yesterday in preparation for the 100th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli, with extra police rostered on to patrol Tamworth and Armidale, as well as other, smaller towns.
In the New England, acting crime manager Stuart Gray told The Leader police were conscious of the heightened terrorism alert.
“We’ve got certain measures in place to address the issue,” he said.
“Locals should show the respect (the day) deserves and we encourage people to come along to services, take part in the parade and commemorate Anzac Day.”
With dozens of services organised across the region, Oxley Acting Inspector Moy said police didn’t anticipate any issues to arise and locals should not be alarmed.
“[Police] have been briefed in the Oxley local area command and there is a heightened level of alert in relation to that,” Acting Inspector Moy said.
“We have extra police working for Anzac Day in relation to increased level of drinking anticipated, as well as gambling with the two-up.”
And after the official services, police warn they will be on patrol in the streets, around the towns, and especially in pubs, clubs and licensed venues.
“Whilst it’s Anzac Day, and it’s probably extra emotional this year because of the centenary, we will continue to remain focused on alcohol-related anti-social behaviour,” Acting Inspector Gray said.
“Our message is to drink responsibly – we won’t tolerate anti-social behaviour just because it’s Anzac Day.”
