Victoria Police warns schoolies against drug use as parties kick off across Victoria

Victorian schoolies have been warned of a “zero tolerance” to drug use as police get set to saturate three party hotspots across the state.

Police are warning schoolies they will have a “zero tolerance” approach to drug use as the force saturates three party hotspots across the state in a bid to deter and disrupt illegal and anti-social behaviour.

Victoria Police will deploy hundreds of officers across three co-ordinated operations, including the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and the Bellarine Peninsula, as year 12 students finish exams and descend upon the popular destinations this week.

The bolstered effort will include the public order response team, the dog squad, the mounted branch and the state highway patrol as well as uniformed officers with local expertise.

Acting Assistant Commissioner Therese Fitzgerald say police have their sights set on ‘toolies’.

The force will even monitor crowds from the sky with hi-tech drones, in a bid to stamp out any trouble from unruly crowds before it escalates.

The state police commander leading the operation has warned revellers to “not be a hero” by buying drugs, while also highlighting officers have their sights set on toolies, rowdy house parties, violence, alcohol abuse and predatory behaviour.

“We have a zero tolerance toward illicit drugs,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Therese Fitzgerald said.

“You don’t want to be the hero that buys drugs for your friend, just three grams is a trafficable quantity. This can impact your ability to travel in the future, or future employment prospects. It is an avoidable risk.”

Ms Fitzgerald said officers had their sights set on “toolies” — older men looking to prey upon younger women.

Police will target the Mornington Peninsula, Phillip Island and the Bellarine Peninsula during schoolies celebrations. Picture: Josie Hayden

“We’ll be there gathering intelligence about any people who may be there for the wrong purpose, looking to prey on young people,” she said.

“Everyone has the right to enjoy themselves without fear of sexual assault or harassment.”

Out-of-control parties held at short term rentals were also a concern for the force.

“If you are hosting a house party, be careful, don’t post it on social media as you don’t want unexpected guests,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

She added police were there to ensure school leavers had a good time while keeping safe.

“We want them to celebrate safely, make good decisions and look after each other,” Ms Fitzgerald said.

Police will target Lorne, Torquay, the Phillip Island back beach and a music festival at Rye.