Cops to stamp out drunks at Boxing Day test
Strict security measures will be in place for the Boxing Day Test, with fans warned to allow plenty of time to enter the MCG. And there are two things they can do to speed up the wait time.
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Strict security measures will be in place for the Boxing Day Test, with fans warned to allow plenty of time to enter the MCG.
Every person entering the MCG will have their bags searched and be “wanded’’ by handheld metal detectors.
Fans have been encouraged to leave backpacks at home or bring clear bags to speed up screening.
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Public parking will be banned in Yarra Park outside the MCG. Brunton Ave, Jolimont St, Jolimont Terrace and Wellington Parade will be closed to traffic for most of the day.
MCC chief executive Stuart Fox said the security measures, which were designed to provide additional safety and comfort for patrons, needed to be factored into fans’ arrival plans.
“While we want to ensure everyone is inside the stadium before the first ball, providing a safe and secure environment for everyone is our top priority,” he said. “These entry processes are an important part of our security procedures, but they do take some additional time. Fans therefore need to be patient and arrive earlier than usual.
“We continue to receive the very best advice from police and intelligence authorities with respect to security matters and are confident we have all the appropriate measures in place to deliver a safe event.”
Cricket Australia fan engagement executive general manager Anthony Everard said the security measures were “a reality of the new world”.
“Making sure our patrons are safe and can enter the venue freely is a priority for us and we have enormous confidence in the MCG as one of the premier stadiums in the world,’’ he said.
Police will also deploy undercover officers during the Boxing Day Test in a bid to stamp out drunken behaviour.
The AFL season was marred by violent brawls breaking out inside stadiums and Victoria Police is determined to avoid a repeat of the mayhem at the Boxing Day Test.
Force command have also moved to reassure people there is no known threat to the high-profile event, following a recent terror attack in Bourke St and counter terrorism arrests last month.
“The safety and security of the Victorian community remains our highest priority,” Assistant Commissioner Deb Abbott told the Herald Sun.
“Victoria Police is not aware of any direct threat to the Victorian community.
“There are no known or specific threats to any Victorians, organisations, infrastructure or events.”
A public order and liquor licensing operation will be run by officers in Richmond and the CBD on Boxing Day as the force prepares to keep the peace on one of the country’s biggest days of sport.
In particular, police will be making sure bar staff are not serving alcohol to people who have already had too much.
Officers will flood the area as thousands of people attend the match between Australia and India, with the series delicately balanced at 1-1.
Police brawler vans will be on patrol to watch out for drunken behaviour and violence in the streets.
And specialist police, including officers from the highly trained operations response unit (ORU), will also be out alongside regular uniformed officers.
“Expect to see a lot of general duties and specialist police out patrolling our streets and roads, joined by Protective Services Officers (PSOs) on trains and at public transport hubs,” Ms Abbott said.
“This isn’t something to worry about … we’re there to keep people safe and hope our presence makes them feel safer.
“As with all major events, Victoria Police has taken the necessary steps and allocated the required resources to ensure the safety of the community.”
Concerns have been raised in the past that free flowing alcohol in corporate areas can lead to trouble.
“Uniform police (will be) out in force in licensed premises in corporate and public areas inside the ground, as well as bars and pubs in the Yarra area,” Ms Abbott said.
“Plain clothes operatives will also be covertly visiting bars and pubs to ensure alcohol is being served responsibly.”
People have been encouraged to take public transport to get to the MCG to avoid traffic congestion.
Partial closures may also be in place on other days, based on crowd numbers.
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“Plan your journey in advance to avoid getting stuck without an easy way home at the end of the day’s play,” Ms Abbott said.
“There will also be a strong focus on enforcement on roads leading to and from the CBD, as always drink and drug driving will not be tolerated.
“Our message to Victorians is to come out and enjoy these events safely and responsibly and police know the overwhelming majority of people do just that.
“But if you come into the city or to one of our major events looking to cause trouble you will be caught out by a swift and firm response from Victoria Police.”