Townsville New Year: Police boost numbers on Flinders St, The Strand and Magnetic Island

A bumper number of partygoers are set to take to Townsville’s streets this New Year’s Eve, prompting police to bolster their numbers over the weekend. See the e-scooter warning.

Queensland Police Service - Generic images

A bumper number of partygoers are set to take to Townsville’s streets this New Year’s Eve, prompting police to bolster their numbers over the weekend.

With a “substantially larger” crowd expected, Townsville police have reminded the community to stay safe while on the town – and warned that a “heavy police presence” will be in force across the region.

“We’ve obviously got quite a substantial number of extra crews rostered on for Flinders St, and the safe night precinct, so there will be a very heavy police presence there,” Acting Inspector Scot Warrick said.

For those heading in to Flinders St and The Strand, Acting Inspector Warrick encouraged the use of public transport, ride-shares and taxis to reduce traffic.

He said while no road closures would be put in place, concrete bollards would be installed in places to keep pedestrians off the road.

Queensland Police Service. Generic image.

In addition to bolstered police numbers along The Strand and Flinders St, Acting Inspector Warrick said reserve officers would be sent to patrol Magnetic Island as well.

Drivers can also expect to see a lot of random breath test sites including static and mobile patrols, with Acting Inspector Warrick saying drink driving would not be tolerated, including on e-scooters.

“We all know the road toll in Queensland is very high this year, one of the highest we have had on record …,” he said.

He stressed the importance of patience to those planning on heading out on the big night.

“Everyone needs to understand we’re here for a good time tomorrow night and we don't want anyone making poor decisions when it comes to patience around other people, and their actions,” he said.

Originally published as Townsville New Year: Police boost numbers on Flinders St, The Strand and Magnetic Island