NSW Police have launched a new high-visibility operation to accompany the Vivid Festival now under way until 15 June.
Commander of the Central Metropolitan Region, Acting Assistant Police Commissioner Tony Cooke said Operation Vivid Sydney 2019 would involve additional police officers patrolling the city.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said general duties officers would be assisted by specialist police from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Police Transport Command, Mounted Unit, Public Order and Riot Squad, PolAir and the Marine Area Command.
“Officers will be targeting anti-social behaviour, boating safety, and protecting property and installations from damage or defacement,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
“Public safety is the top priority with more than two million people expected to attend throughout the festival.”
He said police had been working closely with Destination NSW as well as other Government Agencies and event landholders, to ensure each night of the festival was safe, fun and family-friendly.
“For anyone planning to enjoy the event, we strongly encourage you to consider using public transport in and out of the city,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
“During the busier nights, crowd barriers will be in place to provide safe viewing areas, and we urge people to follow directions from police and event marshals to allow for safe pedestrian movement.”
He reminded pedestrians to pay close attention, always use the footpath, and only cross roadways where there were traffic control points.
“Don’t just follow the crowd, remember to stop, look and listen before crossing,” he said.
“At the same time, I urge motorists to slow down and watch out in heavy pedestrian areas, particularly where there are light installations or projections,” Acting Assistant Commissioner Cooke said.
