Adelaide's vibrant East End will come alive from tonight with the annual Fringe Opening Night Party launching a fun-filled, month-long celebration of the very best South Australia has to offer.
South Australia Police urge revellers to exercise care, look after their property, and be patient in the coming weeks, as concurrent events draw thousands of diverse visitors to the CBD.
The City's East End and surrounding area has once again been proclaimed a Declared Public Precinct, meaning SA Police will have additional powers in the region bounded by Bartels Road, Pirie Street, Pulteney Street, Grenfell Street, King William Street, North Terrace, Botanic Road and Dequetteville Terrace until 21 March.
During the period Friday 19 February to Sunday 21 March, any person or group deemed to pose a risk to public safety may be ordered to leave the precinct.
In particular police will be able to order people – either individually or in a group - to leave the defined area if their behaviour is posing a risk to public order and safety.
We are keen for people to celebrate safely and to ensure that they are following a few safety tips and importantly following the COVID-19 safe practices such as staying home if unwell (perhaps pay it forward your event ticket to a friend), cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands well and keep 1.5m distance from those around you. Please also remember to scan the QR code when entering the venue.
Fringe events will be abiding by COVID Management Plan / COVID Safe Management Plans, therefore it important that those going along abide by what has been put in place by the event organisers to ensure their safety and the safety of those around them.
"The safety and enjoyment of visitors attending the city during this period is our foremost priority," said Police Commander for the event, Superintendent Matt Nairn
Those heading out to enjoy the Fringe festivities are encouraged to enjoy the celebrations but to do so safely. SA Police would like to highlight a few key important things for those attending the event to remember:
- Do not leave bags unattended, even if only to walk a short distance to get food or beverages.
- Plan your transport ahead if you plan on drinking. Organise a ride share, public transport or car pool with a mate.
- For those driving to and from the event, be patient and allow extra time to navigate road closures and possible delays.
- Look out for your friends and family.
- Report any suspicious behaviour immediately on the Police Assistance Line on 131 444 or in an emergency please call Triple Zero.
- Stay hydrated particularly as we are now experiencing warmer days and nights.
- Before leaving the house, check the event's website regarding any changes at the event as well as the SA Health website for any updates regarding COVID-19.
The opening night- Yerta Palti Meyunna – Ceremony of People and Country- gets underway from 7pm (this evening) in Rymill Park and will include dance, a fire ceremony and songs. Please note that there is restricted access to this event.
"SA Police will deploy a highly-visible presence over the coming weeks, including bicycle and foot patrols, Mounted Operations, Dog Operations and Road Policing officers," Superintendent Nairn said.
"This will help us to ensure public safety, and preserve the inclusive, family-friendly atmosphere of the Festival season".
For more information about the Declared Public Precinct, visit https://www.police.sa.gov.au/your-safety/declared-public-precincts
