Sunshine Coast police have made multiple arrests following disturbances during Australia Day celebrations at Moffat Beach yesterday.
Police were called to Eleanor Shipley Park multiple times throughout the afternoon as groups of teens and adults were involved in alcohol fuelled violence and anti-social behaviour.
Police responded to calls for service from 3.30pm, dispersing crowds of up to 200 people.
At 7pm, police attended and arrested one person for a public nuisance offence when the crowd turned on them, assaulting and throwing bottles at officers.
The incidents throughout the afternoon resulted in 12 people being charged on 26 offences with one 15-year-old girl charged with assault police.
Acting Superintendent Jason Overland said the behaviour was very disappointing and had resulted in families leaving the park and injuries to officers.
"The Sunshine Coast is a great place to live and to visit and celebrate special events like Australia Day, especially when we see generally good behaviour by most.
"The behaviour witnessed by police yesterday does not represent the overall community who know how to celebrate respectfully and without disrupting those around them."
Three officers were injured during the incident with one officer being kicked in the head and another with a suspected broken hand.
Police will maintain a zero-tolerance approach for violence or anti-social behaviour of any kind.
Link to audio of press conference – we apologise for the quality of this recording:
