Police are urging racegoers to plan ahead and act responsibly ahead of this weekend’s Golden Slipper Carnival in Sydney’s Rosehill Gardens, NSW Police say.
More than 15,000 people are expected to gather at Rosehill Gardens tomorrow (18 March 2017) for the Australian Turf Club’s Golden Slipper.
Police will conduct a mobile, high-visibility operation to ensure the safety and security of participants, spectators, race officials, and the wider community.
The operation comprises officers from Rosehill Local Area Command, assisted by the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Dog Unit, including drug-detection dogs; Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, and Police Transport Command.
Rosehill Local Area Commander, Superintendent Scott Whyte, said police are prioritising crowd safety and will be targeting anyone engaged in dangerous or anti-social behaviour.
"We have been working closely with the Australian Turf Club to ensure the carnival is a great day out for all racegoers so everyone can enjoy the festivities safely," Supt Whyte said.
"Police will not tolerate alcohol-related violence or any behaviour that comprises the security or other racegoers.
"We’re not here to spoil the fun and we want people to enjoy themselves; however, those who drink too much, become a nuisance to other racegoers, or commit offences, will be swiftly removed by police."
Supt Whyte urged racegoers to plan their trip to the races ahead of time, and leave your car at home to utilise public transport services.
"With limited parking available and local traffic delays expected; your best bet is to opt for public transport this weekend," Supt Whyte said.
"Remember, public transport is there for everyone to use and officers from Police Transport Command will be travelling across the network to make sure everyone travels to and from the grounds safely.
Plan your journey by accessing the ‘Trip Planner’ application via www.trasnsportnsw.info that includes all special event timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries and taxi ranks.
In addition, police are urging motorists and pedestrians to travel with care and be aware of their surroundings when travelling through the area.
"Those who must drive should allow extra travel time and expect delays, especially toward the end of the day as crowds make their way home from the racecourse," Supt Whyte said.
"Pedestrians and drivers need to share the roadways but it is important for pedestrians to stay on the footpath and only cross at approved traffic control points.
"Don’t just follow the crowd, remember the basics: STOP, LOOK and LISTEN before crossing the road," Supt Whyte said.
"We also remind racegoers if you choose to drive, you’ve chosen not to drink. Traffic and Highway Patrol officers will be targeting drink-driving on major roads and backstreets, so don’t take the risk as you will get caught."
For all special event traffic information and up-to-date traffic reports, visit: www.livetraffic.com.
Visit https://racing.australianturfclub.com.au/golden-slipper for additional race day information, including conditions of entry.
