Police will increase alcohol and drug testing as schoolies celebrate

Police from the Surf Coast and Melbourne will be patrolling as 1000 school leavers celebrate finishing year 12.

Police will be patrolling the beach more frequently as schoolies descend on the Surf Coast this week. Picture: Alison Wynd

Schoolies could face a $200 on-the-spot fine if caught drinking in public along the Surf Coast.

Police will ramp up their operations ahead of the celebration period with more than 1000 school leavers are expected to descend on Lorne and Torquay between November 26 and December 3.

The Surf Coast Shire has a strict alcohol ban in public places and local area commander Inspector Monique Leffanue said police would be cracking down on drinking at local beaches and on the streets.

“We won’t tolerate drinking in public places...there are many places where they can drink but do it safely and responsibly,” Insp Leffanue said.

Police will increase the number of officers present at popular schoolies spots to ensure they enjoy themselves in a safe and responsible manner.

“We’ve got numerous police officers from this area and also from Melbourne who will be coming down to patrol,” Insp Leffanue said.

Surf Coast local area commander Inspector Monique Leffanue is warning schoolies to be behave safely and responsibly during their celebrations. Picture: Chelsea Bunting

Police plan to increase drug and alcohol testing on roads during the schoolies period.

“We will be out there in force, if you drink drive or drug drive, you will be caught and it won’t be tolerated,” Insp Leffanue.

This is the first time many school leavers will be travelling longer distances and Insp Leffanue is encouraging young drivers remain vigilant on the roads.

“Abide by your license restrictions, make sure to pull over if you are tired and please don’t drink and drive,” she said.

Police will be out in force ahead on schoolies celebrations. Picture: Chelsea Bunting

Police are also warning school leavers to keep out of the water when they are consuming alcohol especially at night and will have drones, officers on horses and a polaris vehicle ensuring students are behaving safely and responsibly.

“At the moment because of all the rain we’ve had there are more rips in areas that aren’t in spots we usually expect them to be,” Insp Leffanue said.

Police are encouraging schoolies to enjoy their celebrations along the Surf Coast safely and to look after one another.

“It is a beautiful area, we know that (students) have worked hard this year,” Insp Leffanue said.

“If there is an issue, let us known and we’ll look after you.”

Originally published as Police will increase alcohol and drug testing as schoolies celebrate