Police are urging festival-goers to celebrate safely and responsibly this Australia Day weekend, with three music festivals taking place across Sydney.
The Electric Gardens music festival is in Sydney's Centennial Park on Saturday 26 January 2019, while the Hardcore Till I Die festival on Saturday 26 January 2019, and the Rolling Loud music festival on Sunday 27 January 2019 will both be held at Sydney Showground.
A police operation will be in place at each of the festivals involving officers from the Central Metropolitan Region and South West Metropolitan Region, with assistance from specialist units including the Dog Unit, Licensing Police, and Police Transport Command.
Deputy Commissioner Metropolitan Field Operations, Jeff Loy, said officers will maintain a high-visibility presence at these events, targeting anti-social behaviour and criminal activity.
"Thousands of people are expected to attend the three festivals across two days and police from both general duties and specialist units will be patrolling the venue and targeting the supply and possession of illegal drugs," Deputy Commissioner Loy said.
"We want people to enjoy the festivals, but we want them to do so safely. We're regularly reminded of the negative effects illegal drug taking has on people's health and behaviour, and we will be targeting those intent on bringing any illegal substance into the events.
Police officers will also be able to hand out Drug Criminal Infringement Notices (CINS) of up to $400 for illegal drug possession offences under a new trial introduced by the NSW Government.
"Officers patrolling these music festivals will be able to issue on-the-spot fines for small-quantity drug possession. Additionally, anyone found supplying drugs to festival goers will be arrested and charged," Deputy Commissioner Loy said.
"There is no such thing as safe drugs. We have seen young people lose their lives from taking illegal drugs in recent weeks, that should be enough to make you think twice about what you put in your body."
Anyone under the influence of drugs or alcohol, or who feels unwell, is urged to seek professional medical attention.
"With the warm weather expected to continue, revellers are encouraged to look after one another, stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water – not alcohol, keep cool, and be sun smart.
"Poor choices can have serious consequences and we urge all people attending these festivals to remain safe, look after your friends, and don't risk your health or your good reputation," Deputy Commissioner Loy said.
Festival-goers are asked to utilise public transport and plan your trip to event ahead of time. Visit www.transport.nsw.info for the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries, light rail and taxi ranks.
