‘Be alert’: Message for CBD revellers ahead of Christmas
Heading into the city during the festive season? Revellers are being urged to stay safe and plan their trip home ahead of time after a string of strange incidents in the CBD.
VIC News
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Revellers celebrating Christmas and the New Year are being warned to stay safe and plan their ride home, after a string of concerning incidents in Melbourne’s CBD.
Police and the Salvation Army’s street teams will be out in force on Friday and Saturday nights this festive season, with weekend protective services officers also stationed at transport hubs and on trams and trains.
Major Brendan Nottle urged people to take care of themselves and others, after The Salvos’ came to the aid of revellers in recent weeks.
He said a black Mercedes driver was recently seen offering three young women a ride even though they hadn’t ordered an Uber. The driver took off after police and Salvos arrived.
A distressed woman was also stranded in the city with her drunk and spewing boyfriend after two Ubers refused to take them home to Melbourne’s northern suburbs.
In a third incident, Maj Nottle said an inebriated woman was left in a CBD alleyway in the care of a concerned stranger.
“We just have to be alert,” Maj Nottle said.
“The big message is: enjoy Christmas, enjoy the end of the year but make sure you look after yourself and others.
“We aren’t about being judgmental. But if you are going to have a few drinks, make sure you have had something to eat, that you have some friends and, if you’re getting an Uber check your app, make sure it’s the Uber you ordered.”
Maj Nottle said anyone stuck in the city and in need of help could go to the Salvos’ headquarters at 69 Bourke St.
A Victoria Police spokeswoman said police had an increased presence in the CBD on Friday and Saturday night as part of the My City model, and that under Operation Guardian the public order response team would patrol the city.
“This is a great time of year for Melbourne and we encourage people coming into the city to celebrate the festivities in a safe and responsible manner,” she said.
“We know excessive drinking can lead to serious consequences and police strongly encourage everyone to have a plan in place to make sure you and your friends get home safely.
“As always, anyone coming into the city to cause trouble can expect a firm response from police.”
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An Uber spokeswoman said drivers faced bans on the app if caught taking street hails. She also urged anyone who orders an Uber to check the license plate, car make and model.
“If you’re out with a friend who has had too much to drink this holiday season, please help them get all the way home – from club door, to car door, to front door.”