Clampdown on Schoolies as close to 25,000 teens prepare to converge on the Gold Coast
Clampdown on Schoolies damage as close to 25,000 teens prepare to converge on the Gold Coast.
TEENAGERS counting down to Schoolies have been warned against recklessness during $45 million fortnight of celebrations, amid a clampdown on risky behaviour.
With close to 25,000 Year 12 students preparing to converge on the Gold Coast alone, property owners have implemented stricter rental agreements to ensure risks were covered by teenage tenants.
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Schools, such as Kelvin Grove State College, have also undergone weekly Schoolies sessions through the final term bringing in experts to warn against violence, alcohol and drug abuse, property damage and reckless behaviour.
Wilful damage to property, overcrowding, excessive noise and underage drinking were among problems often linked to Schoolies rentals, said Grant Mifsud of Archers the Strata Professionals.
Seventeen-year-old Kelvin Grove graduates Soleil Harvey, Abby Nicholls and Monique McInnes-Phelan were among hundreds who went through Schoolies drills in recent weeks.
Ms McInnes-Phelan said the sessions covered everything from “One punch can kill” to Red Frogs, CPR, visits by the fire department and police, drink drinking warnings plus social media advice.
Students were also advised to document the condition of rentals upon check-in.
Schoolies.com said students spent anywhere from $299 to several thousand dollars for seven nights accommodation.
Mr Mifsud said preparation helped to calm the ‘Schoolies jitters’ for both parents and property owners.
“It is integral for property managers to work with graduates and their parents to ensure clear boundaries are set from the get-go – outlining what behaviour is and is not acceptable.
“We strongly encourage parents to contact the accommodation provider to discuss the rules, regulations and security measures being implemented to protect their child.
“It’s important that both graduates and their parents understand the protocols and emergency procedures prior to arriving.”
House rules to protect Schoolies and property:
- No glass bottles in the room or pool area
- Bag checks can be carried out by on-site security.
- Maximum of two external guests permitted to the room at any given time, with ID held at reception.
- Pool rules and restrictions (no access after 9pm)
- Secure rooftops to prohibit ‘dangerous stunts’.
- Zero tolerance policy for misbehaviour on balconies.
- Noise must be kept to a minimum.
- Dangerous behaviour will be dealt with by police.
(Source: Archers the Strata Professionals)
Originally published as Clampdown on Schoolies as close to 25,000 teens prepare to converge on the Gold Coast