The Queensland Police Service (QPS) is busy finalising preparations to ensure one of Brisbane's biggest annual events, Riverfire, is safe and secure for everyone heading out to watch the fireworks spectacle.
Police expect up to 400,000 people in the city over the course of Saturday's celebrations with up to 300,000 anticipated to attend Riverfire viewing venues to celebrate the fireworks.
The QPS encourages everyone to allow extra travel time to get to your destination.
Remember that major road, bridge, and cycleway closures will come into effect on Saturday, together with some parking restrictions.
Road, walkway and bridge closures:
Impacted bridges include Victoria Bridge, Goodwill Bridge, Neville Bonner Bridge, Story Bridge, and Captain Cook Bridge.
Motorists can expect delays and traffic congestion at road closures in Brisbane City, Fortitude Valley, around Story Bridge, Kangaroo Point, South Brisbane, Mt Coot-tha, Mt Gravatt, and along the Brisbane River.
Impacted cycleways, walkways and viewing points include Mangrave walk, The Landing, Eagle Street and the New Farm Riverwalk.
The Brisbane River will be closed to vessels without a permit from 5pm to 8.45pm on Saturday evening between Kinellan Point, New Farm to Mowbray Park, then upstream to the Go-Between bridge.
Details of the exact closures and timings can be found at Road, Bridge and River Closures for Riverfire by Australian Retirement Trust – Brisbane Festival.
All Riverfire attendees are encouraged to check there are no changes to public transport and make sure you plan ahead.
Drone usage not permitted in event venue:
Don't be tempted to use your drone to capture footage of the aircraft and fireworks displays.
There will be low-level aircraft operating in the area during the practice days and event.
Flying your drone is strictly prohibited in the event venue areas at any time, as it may post a significant risk to both permitted aircraft and spectators.
Queensland Police will be monitoring the airspace, so keep yourself, the aerial display crew, and spectators safe by leaving your drone at home.
For more about drone safety rules visit www.knowyourdrone.gov.au.
Police patrols on the night:
The Brisbane Major Events Planning Unit (MEPU) is well-versed in planning and preparing for major events, and Riverfire is no exception.
MEPU began planning for this year's event following Riverfire 2024.
Public safety and minimised community disruption remain our top priorities.
Extensive traffic management plans will be in place and extra police will patrol throughout the event.
Security will be conducting random bag checks - no sharp objects, glass, opened bottles or cans will be permitted inside the parklands.
Attendees should never, under any circumstances, leave bags unattended in a public place.
Riverfire spectators should drink responsibly and only within designated areas.
South Bank will be a fenced-off alcohol-free zone.
Riverfire Operations Commander, Acting Superintendent Stewart Day encourages attendees to remember that Riverfire is a family-friendly event.
"Public safety is our top priority and I encourage all attendees to be patient, considerate and respectful towards others.
"We will have extra police officers on patrol across the inner city to ensure the night flows smoothly.
"Police will continue to have a zero-tolerance for unsafe driving practices, with a key focus on driving whilst under the influence. It's simple, if you are over the limit - do not drive.
"We want everyone who chooses to head out and celebrate Riverfire to have a safe and fun experience."
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
