All available Queensland Police Service resources will be deployed to ensure the 2018 New Year's Eve festivities on the Gold Coast are not adversely affected by incidents of public disorder or antisocial behaviour.
External resources from the Helicopter Support Unit, Water Police, Road Policing Command and Logan District will complement the local policing response ensuring a high-visibility police presence is broadly maintained across the Gold Coast District for Monday December 31, 2018 and Tuesday January 1, 2019.
Gold Coast Police would like to encourage members of the public to act responsibly when drinking and celebrating the New Year's Eve. Police will be targeting the consumption of liquor in public places and any antisocial behaviour across the Gold Coast in foreshore parks, roads and adjoining areas; including bus stops, tram stops and car parks.
Gold Coast District Major Events Group Inspector Gavin Peachey said that "significant police numbers are dedicated to New Year's Eve patrols focusing on public safety to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy their celebrations and then travel home safely".
"Police will implement pre-planned strategies including early intervention that will assist in reducing the incidents of anti-social behaviour over the New Year's Eve celebration and New Year's Day public holiday".
Inspector Peachey encourages the community to utilise public transport and plan their trip ahead to avoid congestion around road closures.
"There is a likelihood of significant traffic delays in and around Surfers Paradise, Broadbeach, Runaway Bay and other locations that offer vantage points to fireworks displays. Motorists are advised to remain patient or avoid these areas if possible".
Senior Sergeant Bradyn Murphy from the Gold Coast Road Policing Command said officers from the Road Policing Command will again be conducting enforcement operations across the Gold Coast to reduce the incidence of road trauma and warned that people need to utilise public transport and not drink drive.
Road closures are below:
Surfers Paradise:
Cavill Avenue, Orchid Avenue and The Esplanade will be closed from 8pm to 4am – there will also be intermittent road closures around 8pm and Midnight around the GLINK platforms and CBD to ensure that patrons leaving the fireworks can do so safely.
Broadbeach:
Old Burleigh Road will be closed between Albert and Charles Avenue between 6pm to 2am.
Runaway Bay:
The Esplanade (Paradise Point) between Falkinder Avenue and Bruce Avenue from 4pm to Midnight.
