Splendour in the Grass: Police issue warning to revellers heading to North Byron Parklands festival
Police have issued a sharp warning to revellers heading to Splendour in the Grass at North Byron Parklands, with officers out in force at the site and on the road.
Byron Shire
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Police have issued a sharp warning and urged revellers to “look out for your mates” as they pack into North Byron Parklands for Splendour in the Grass.
It’s the festival’s 21st year and the weather forecast looks promising, after heavy rain, mud and traffic chaos marred last year’s event following two years of Covid cancellations.
NSW Police has urged attendees to celebrate in a safe and responsible manner as crowds spill into Byron and surrounds.
It may be a smaller crowd than usual – organisers said in recent days ticket sales were down about 30 per cent.
A high-visibility police operation is targeting alcohol-fuelled violence, anti-social behaviour and illegal drug use and supply.
Tweed/Byron Police District Commander Superintendent Dave Roptell, said police wanted to make sure festivalgoers were aware of the consequences of risky behaviour.
“Police have been working closely with event organisers and stakeholders for months leading up to this weekend’s event to ensure the safety of all staff, performers and music fans throughout the festival,” he said.
“Those who choose to do the wrong thing risk spoiling the event for themselves and others, and those who bring illicit substances can expect to be caught and dealt with accordingly.”
Supt Roptell said all attendees have a role to play in looking out for each other.
“Drink plenty of water, have appropriate sun protection and keep an eye on your mates – ensure they don’t wander off alone, and if they appear unwell, seek professional medical attention immediately,” he said.
In addition to the operation at the festival site, officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command will be deployed to the region to target speeding and drink and drug driving.
“We are preparing for a considerable increase in traffic throughout the Byron Shire before, during, and after the festival – particularly on the Pacific Highway,” Mr Roptell said.
“Officers will be conducting regular roadside drug and alcohol testing — anyone caught driving under the influence will be dealt with seriously.”
Attendees began to arrive at the site on Wednesday.
The festival officially begins on Friday and wraps up on Sunday.
Police pointed motorists travelling to the festival to www.livetraffic.com.
Important event information – including a list of banned items – can be found on the festival’s website.
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