People expecting to head to Byron Bay to celebrate the end of 2020 and the start of 2021 are warned that celebration this year will be low key and must comply with the COVID-19 protocols set out by the NSW Government.
The COVID-19 pandemic has meant the cancellation of the Soul Street event on New Year's Eve and and First Sun on New Year's Day and there are no other public events planned in Byron Bay this New Year's Eve.
Phil Holloway, Byron Shire Council's Acting General Manager, said anyone coming to Byron Bay should heed the public health warnings relating to COVID-19, particularly those around social distancing.
"As we are seeing in Sydney this is not the time to be complacent about COVID-19 and people coming to Byron Bay to party the night away should think again," Mr Holloway said.
"There will be a heavy police presence in town and our beaches, parks and public areas are alcohol-free zones," he said.
"The police and our community have a zero tolerance for anti-social behaviour of any sort," Mr Holloway said.
Council staff will be working seven days a week over the Christmas/New Year period, targeting illegal camping.
"This year has been very difficult for a lot of people and as keen as we are to welcome in 2021, I ask anyone coming to Byron Bay to respect our town and our community and do the right thing," Mr Holloway said.
