The police operation for Australia Day has concluded with a number of safe and fun celebrations in the Sydney CBD and regional areas across NSW, NSW Police say.
Operation Goldsmith was launched to ensure the safety of millions of people as they celebrated our national day with family and friends at events across the state.
The high-visibility policing strategy involved General Duties officers, with assistance from specialist units including the Police Transport Command, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order & Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Licensing Police, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, PolAir and Marine Area Command.
Traffic & Highway Patrol Command were out in force targeting speeding and drink-driving across all major roads while Marine Area Command maintained consistent patrols to provide a safe environment for everyone celebrating on the state’s waterways.
In addition, officers attached to the Police Transport Command were deployed throughout transport network to ensure safe passage for commuters, during which they issued 152 rail infringements.
Operation Goldsmith Commander, Acting Assistant Commissioner Kyle Stewart, said while there were a number of incidents, overall the community celebrated safely.
"Tens of thousands of people attended events in Sydney CBD and lined the harbour foreshore, with thousands more at events across the metropolitan area and regional suburbs," Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
"Crowds were well-behaved and there were a small number of isolated incidents where officers were required to intervene or take action."
Throughout the day’s state-wide operations, 96 people were arrested and charged for a range of offences including assault, resist arrest, offensive behaviour, drink-driving, drug possession and malicious damage.
Just after 1pm today, police were facilitating a protest march in Ultimo when a participant allegedly attempted to ignite a flag.
A 20-year-old man was subsequently arrested and charged with assault police, resist arrest and malicious damage, and he’s been granted conditional bail to appear before Downing Centre Local Court on Tuesday 14 February 2017.
During a brief struggle an officer injured his ankle and a woman sustained a head injury. They were both taken to hospital and are in a stable condition.
Importantly, this was an isolated incident in an otherwise peaceful demonstration; overall, police were pleased with the behaviour of the crowd.
"Overwhelmingly, considering the significant crowds enjoying festivities today, the vast majority celebrated safely, which made for a family-friendly day for everyone," Acting Assistant Commissioner Stewart said.
"As celebrations continue this evening make sure you look out for your mates and if you’re having a drink – do so in moderation and know your limits.
"Also remember if you believe you may still be over the limit tomorrow morning, don’t take the risk of getting behind the wheel. Police in both marked and unmarked police cars will be performing random drug and alcohol tests across the state’s roads throughout the day."
