New weapon search powers for police at Victor Harbor's Schoolies Festival
Teens heading to Victor Harbor Schoolies face unprecedented security measures this year as police gain new powers at the festival grounds.
Teens attending Schoolies at Victor Harbor this weekend will be subject to weapon searches by police for the first time in a bid to “enhance community safety.”
The annual festival, held within Warland Reserve, will be a Declared Public Event, giving officers the power to carry out metal detector searches on festival-goers during the three-day event.
As a result, police will be able to search anyone attempting to leave or enter Schoolies along with any property in their possession.
Operation Schoolies Commander Superintendent Joanne Howard said police would also be increasing resources, including patrols, in the area over the weekend.
“The Schoolies Festival is alcohol-free and it’s also a Declared Public Event and this means that police can conduct metal detection searches in the area,” she said.
“Any person attempting to enter into, exit from or participate in Warland Reserve can be wanded.
“It's a measure to enhance community safety and make that space safe. I think for parents and also for the students attending, anything that we can do to improve the safety in that space is welcomed.”
Officers from the Road Safety Section will also be visiting caravan parks in the region daily to offer voluntary breath testing.
Superintendent Howard encouraged attendees to “look out for one another” over the weekend.
“Our goal is to help everyone enjoy the event safely,” she said.
“Please reach out to us if you need assistance or simply come and say hello.”
Around 4,000 school leavers are expected to attend this year’s event.
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