Police are urging fans to keep the rivalry family-friendly and behave responsibly ahead of this weekend's NRL grand final.
The Sydney Roosters will take on the Canberra Raiders at ANZ Stadium, Sydney Olympic Park, for the decider which kicks off at 7.20pm on Sunday (6 October 2019).
Police will launch a high-visibility operation to ensure the safety and security of players, officials and up to 80,000 spectators who are expected to descend on ANZ Stadium.
General Duties officers across South West Metropolitan Region will be assisted by specialist police to ensure the safety and security of all officials, players and spectators before, during and after the respective matches.
Gates will open at 1.15pm for preliminary matches and entertainment, so arriving early is a great option.
Assistant Commissioner Peter Thurtell said, a large number of security guards will also assist police in targeting trouble makers, anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related crime to ensure all fans get to and from the stadium safely.
"Those who choose to do the wrong thing will be dealt with swiftly – which may very well include criminal charges, fines, ejection from the ground and/or banning notices," Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"We want everyone to enjoy themselves and celebrate their competitive spirit, but we will not tolerate anti-social behaviour or any activity that disrupts the match for other spectators and jeopardises safety."
"Spectators need to be considerate of others during post-match celebrations; whether your team wins or loses on Sunday, there is no excuse for violence, intimidation or anti-social behaviour, "Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
"To anyone celebrating across the state over the weekend, I'd like to remind you to drink responsibly and know your limits."
"Excessive alcohol consumption can turn anyone into an offender or victim of crime so keep an eye on your mates and think before you drink," Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
Spectators are also being urged to plan their trip ahead of time and utilise public transport services.
Visit the events page at www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500 for all the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries, light rail and taxi ranks.
Motorists driving to Sydney Olympic Park are reminded to book their parking in advance and allow plenty of travel time and expect significant delays, particularly around the venue before and after the match.
For all special-event traffic information and live traffic reports, refer to the live traffic website for details: www.livetraffic.com.
Assistant Commissioner Thurtell also reminded ticketholders to check conditions of entry and allow plenty of time when entering the stadium.
"We're expecting up to 80,000 people at the game on Sunday, so fans may experience delays as they enter the stadium, with increased security and stringent bag checks."
"Spectators are also urged to keep an eye on their possessions, be aware of your surroundings and don't leave anything unattended. If you notice suspicious or dangerous behaviour, report it to police immediately," Assistant Commissioner Thurtell said.
Further venue information, including conditions of entry and parking availability, is available on the event page at: www.anzstadium.com.au.
Anyone with information about this incident is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: 1800 333 000 or https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence.
