With South Australia’s largest and liveliest annual event about to kick off SA Police are looking forward to a safe and fun-filled 10 days at the Royal Adelaide Show, according to SA Police.
Held by the Royal Agricultural and Horticultural Society of SA between Friday 2 September and Sunday 11 September, the beloved community event attracts nearly 500,000 eager visitors of all ages.
Police Commander Superintendent Lyn Dunstan says a highly visible and proactive police presence in and around Adelaide Showground will ensure the event remains a safe destination for families.
"In addition to uniformed, unmarked and bicycle patrols, we will have Passive Alert Detection (PAD) dogs and horses at the showground to detect and prevent offending in the area.
"Members of our Public Transport Safety Branch will also help to ensure the safety of commuters travelling to and from the Show.
"Historically, police have been very pleased with crowd behaviour at the Royal Adelaide Show, especially given the number of visitors passing through the showground.
"The major issue we encounter within the showground is missing children.
"For your own peace of mind, and to assist us in locating your child if they become lost, we’re encouraging all caregivers to obtain a ‘Lost Person’ wristband the moment you enter the showground,’ says Supt. Dunstan.
Free wristbands can be collected from the BankSA Farmyard Nursery, Royal Show Kiosks or Show Police Station.
Parents and caregivers are reminded to clearly write their contact phone number, but not their children’s names on the wristbands.
"Take the time to speak with your child before departing for the Show, about what to do if you become separated," says Supt. Dunstan.
"Designate a meeting place for older children in case they become separated from the group, and be sure to introduce your child to Police/Security inside the showground so they feel comfortable approaching us if they are lost or need assistance.
"Don’t forget to snap a quick phone picture of your child or children before setting out, in the clothing they’re wearing to the Show."
Police also urge show-goers to keep a close watch on their belongings.
"Thieves aren’t thinking about showbags. They’re thinking about your bag.
"Never leave your belongings unattended, even if you’re only going on a ride – leave them with a trusted friend."
Throughout the Royal Show, Sturt Police will conduct a proactive operation targeting vehicle theft in the vicinity of the showground.
"Be sure to remove any valuables from your vehicle, and be especially mindful of your home’s security if you live in surrounding streets.
Police remind anyone who observes someone acting in a suspicious manner in the neighbourhood to phone the Police Assistance Line immediately on 131 444.
"Officers will patrol outside the showground to keep pedestrians safe," says Supt. Dunstan.
"Have a great time, enjoy everything the Show has to offer and stay safe."
RA&HS Chief Executive John Rothwell says the Royal Adelaide Show is a time where family and friends get together for a great day out.
"The Society has a strong commitment to safety in general and encourages all patrons to be aware and alert of their surrounds."
With half-a-million people attending the Show annually and thousands of animals on-site at any one time show-goers do need to be mindful of what’s happening around them," says Mr Rothwell.
Reduced speed zones will be in place around the showground. Zones will be signed and apply daily from 9am until midnight on parts of Greenhill Road, Goodwood Road, Leader Street, Cooke Tce, Rose Tce and Hamilton Blvd.
