Police are pleased with the overall behaviour of Australians and visitors that joined in the celebrations as Operation Australia concludes, NSW Police say.
Operation Australia, a high-visibility policing strategy, consisting of general duties from local area commands across the state and specialist units including Public Order & Riot Squad, Police Transport Command, Operations Support Group, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Licensing Police, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, Marine Area Command and PolAir.
Additional police were deployed to ensure the safety of the thousands of people that converged at Sydney CBD and regional areas across NSW.
So far during the operation, 19 people were arrested for multiple offences including assault, stealing and drug and alcohol related offences.
A 30-year-old male skipper returned a positive result to a random breath test on the Sydney Harbour. He was arrested and taken to a police station where he allegedly returned a breath analysis reading of 0.128. While in custody, police allegedly located drugs, believed to be cocaine.
He was charged with mid-range PCA and possession of a prohibited drug and was granted bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday 13 March 2018.
Operation Australia Commander, Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb, said police are pleased with the overall behaviour of thousands of locals and visitors that celebrated our national holiday.
"While there were a number of incidents, overall, crowds were well-behaved while they enjoyed the display of fireworks and the events on offer across NSW.
"The state-wide operation saw police in the air, on our roads and on the water with the public’s safety being our top priority.
"Those who are planning to continue their celebrations into the morning are urged to do so safely - keep an eye on your mates and if you plan on having a drink – do so in moderation," Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb said.
Operation Safe Return, the annual road policing campaign, continues into the weekend during which double demerits will be in force for speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.
"Officers in both marked and un-marked cars will be conducting random drug and alcohol testing on the state’s roads so remember you may still be over the limit in the morning – if you think you might be, don’t get behind the wheel," Assistant Commissioner Karen Webb said.
