The NSW Police Force is encouraging everyone heading into the city to celebrate the 2019 Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade this weekend to plan ahead and enjoy the festivities safely.
Thousands of spectators are expected to line Oxford and Flinders Streets and Anzac Parade on Saturday (2 March 2019), as colourful floats make their way through Darlinghurst to mark the 41st anniversary of Mardi Gras.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Tony Crandell, said police will have a significant presence across the city to ensure the evening's events are safe, fun and family-friendly.
"We are expecting big crowds to attend this year's parade and to make sure everyone has a great night, we have been working closely with Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras staff to ensure safety is the top priority," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
"Police are not here to ruin anyone's fun and anyone acting inappropriately will be dealt with swiftly and face the full force of the law.
"Officers will be keeping an eye out for anyone taking or distributing illicit drugs, and those engaged in alcohol-related crime or anti-social behaviour.
"If you are planning to head into the city, please think before you drink. Anyone under the age of 18 should be aware that there are consequences of drinking underage.
"Police will be focused on maintaining a safe and fun atmosphere for the parade; however, we will not tolerate anyone who risks their safety or the safety of others with foolish behaviour," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
The entire event footprint is an alcohol-free zone, which effectively prohibits the consumption of alcohol in any public place.
"Police have the power to confiscate and dispose of alcohol that is being, has been, or is likely to be consumed in an alcohol-free zone," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
"It's also an offence to consume alcohol on Sydney Trains property and we will have officers from the Police Transport Command patrolling trains, stations and transport hubs throughout the event."
Assistant Commissioner Crandell said viewing areas fill up quickly, so to avoid disappointment people should plan to arrive early and use public transport.
"There will be road closures in place to facilitate the parade, so your best bet is to leave the car at home and utilise additional train and bus services operating throughout the event," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
For comprehensive event details about the parade and after party, visit: http://www.mardigras.org.au.
Use the 'Trip Planner' via www.transportnsw.info/ to plan your journey to the parade, with all the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries and taxi ranks available.
Further information on alcohol-free zones in Sydney can be found on the City of Sydney website: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.
For road-closure information, visit www.livetraffic.com.
