THINK before you drink – that’s the message from Tamworth’s top cop as the city prepares for an influx of country music revellers.
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Hundreds of extra officers will land in Tamworth later this week as the operation to police the country music festival hits full throttle.
“We’re not here to spoil anyone’s fun but we won’t tolerate behaviour that risks the safety of other music fans,” Oxley Acting Superintendent Jeff Budd said.
Acting Superintendent Budd will take charge of the policing operation that will see extra highway officers deployed onto the roads, undercover officers as well as extra uniformed police on the streets. There will also be boosted resources with the dog squad, licensing cops, police on bikes and roving patrols in camping grounds and pubs and clubs.
“The message is simple – think before you drink – and keep an eye out for your mates,” he said,
“There will also be licensing police patrolling venues in and around the festival. They’ll be targeting alcohol-related crime, anti-social behaviour and under-age drinking.
“The Tamworth Liquor Accord also stipulates a 12.30am lockout for all licensed venues.
“Scanning devices have been introduced so if you play up you could be banned from the festival, or from the CBD precinct, for up to 12 months.”
The town’s population will double for the 10-day street party, and while buskers and entertainers will play to the crowds, drinking in the streets like Peel St, Kable Ave and Fitzroy St, will see revellers face the wrath of police.
“Music fans are reminded that there are a number of alcohol-free zones throughout the Tamworth CBD,” Acting Superintendent Budd said.
“If you’re caught with alcohol in one of these areas officers will confiscate it and you may face further police action.”
And, police say it’s important revellers have a Plan-B, so they don’t end up in court.
“Highway patrol will be performing random breath tests and anyone caught driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs will be arrested,” Acting Superintendent Budd said.
“Both marked and unmarked cars will also be targeting dangerous driver behaviour – particularly speed-related offences – on roads in and around Tamworth and the main thoroughfares leading into town.”
Campers are also warned to lock-up and secure valuables, get to know their neighbours and be vigilant for suspicious behaviour.
