Police are reminding motorists, residents and visitors to the Sydney CBD of changed traffic conditions ahead of a parade taking place tomorrow evening in celebration of Taronga Zoo’s centenary, NSW Police say.
The Taronga Zoo Centenary Parade will make its way from Hyde Park North down Macquarie Street at 8pm tomorrow (15 October 2016), after which it will conclude with a special performance on the Opera House forecourt about 8.45pm.
Hundreds of school children will be performing during the parade as a number of illuminated animal floats – representing the zoo’s commitment to protecting critical species – makes it’s down Macquarie Street.
Operation Karinya, a high-visibility policing operation, will be in place for the duration of the parade to ensure the safety and security of performers, volunteers, spectators and the wider community.
The operation comprises General Duties officers from across North West and South West Metropolitan Command, who will be assisted by specialist police from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command (THWPC), Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, Police Transport Command (PTC) and the Police Airwing (PolAir).
Operation Karinya Commander, Detective Superintendent David Donohue, said police have been working closely with event stakeholders to deliver a safe and enjoyable centenary celebration for everyone involved.
"Taronga Zoo is a much-loved piece of Sydney’s history and culture so we’re focused on working with key agencies to ensure safe commemorations tomorrow evening," Det Supt Donohue said.
"I’d like to remind road users, local residents and visitors to Sydney of the road closures that will be in place in order to facilitate the parade.
"Macquarie Street, and a number of surrounding streets in the Sydney CBD, will be closed from 7pm with the final closures coming into affect by 8pm," Det Supt Donohue said.
"Additional closures will include College Street, Hunter Street, Phillip Lane, Prince Albert Road, St James Road, Bridge Street and Conservatorium Road. The Cahill Expressway off ramp to Macquarie Street will also be closed between 7:45pm and 8:45pm.
"The roads will then progressively re-open, in conjunction with police and traffic controllers, as the vibrant display of sculptures and performers gradually make their way toward Circular Quay."
Following the conclusion of the event, all roads are expected to be reopened by 9.30pm.
With road closures in place, anyone planning on attending the parade is encouraged to utilise public transport.
"Public transport will be your best bet if you’d like to come and view the parade. The closest train stations are St James or Town Hall that are both a short walk to the starting area," Det Supt Donohue said.
To plan your trip to the parade tomorrow evening, visit www.transportnsw.info.
"Those who must drive should take care when parking as special event clearways will also be in place – in and around the parade area – from 5pm until about 9.30pm," Det Supt Donohue said.
Members of the public should pay close attention to signage before parking their vehicle as those left within clearways will be towed and fees apply.
Both road users and pedestrians need to be aware of their responsibilities when driving through the area and make sure you’re travelling with care.
"We are prioritising road safety and therefore urge both pedestrians and motorists to obey all directions from police and traffic controllers," Det Supt Donohue said.
"You need to share the roadways, and importantly pedestrians must use the footpath and only cross where there are traffic control points."
For all special event traffic information, including road closures, special event clearways and live traffic reports, visit: www.livetraffic.com.
Further information about the event can be found via: https://taronga.org.au/100-years/centenary-events/birthday-parade.
