Coronavirus: Police break up parties in Byron Bay, as bans ignored

Police have shut down a series of parties which flouted a ban on mass gatherings.

A pile of rubbish left on a beach at Byron Bay. Picture: Facebook

NSW police are urging visitors and locals to “celebrate responsibly” in Byron Bay after breaking up a series of parties attended by hundreds of people, in breach of a ban on mass public gatherings, at beaches and national parks.

Police said in a statement that with a continued influx of visitors to the area – one of the most popular destinations on the tourist map – there had been an increase in large public gatherings.

Despite outdoor gatherings in public places being limited to a maximum of 100 people under current pandemic restrictions, police say they were forced to disperse large crowds gathered at Apex Park on Byron’s Main Beach on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.

Officers then attended Tyagarah National Park around midnight Saturday, breaking up an “illegally organised party”. Early Sunday morning, police again attended Apex Park, ordering a large group gathered there to tip out their alcohol and move on.

“Following this, police attended Main Beach and Belongil Beach after approximately 300 people gathered at each location,” the police statement reads.

“The parties were closed down by police and the crowd was moved on. About 200 people were dispersed and music equipment seized with 73 parking infringements issued.

“Police are liaising with National Parks and Wildlife regarding further infringements for organisers/attendees.”

Superintendent David Roptell, commander of the Tweed-Byron police district, said it was going to be a festive season like no other.

“This year’s Christmas and New Year’s celebrations must be conducted in a COVID-safe environment,” Supt Roptell said.

“In saying that, we have a very clear message to those choosing to come to Byron over the Christmas and New Year period – this year is very different, there will be no large gatherings, no dance parties in the park.

“Social distancing is the new normal, and we all have to do our bit to stop the spread.

“The NSW Police Force continues to work closely with health officials and other government agencies, businesses and the community to manage the COVID-19 crisis and minimise the spread of the virus.”

Revellers should also respect the environment and “clean up after yourself”, he said.

“It’s not fair for council workers and locals to have to clean the significant mess that is being left after each of these gatherings,” he said.