Tasmania Police are preparing for what is expected to be a very busy day on Saturday, 1 October 2016 as party goers celebrate the AFL Football Grand Final.

Whilst police wish for the general community to enjoy the football spirit, they see too many instances where excess alcohol consumption leads to serious injury or death on our roads, and increased anti-social behaviour which can often escalate to violence resulting in injury and subsequent arrest.

The Southern District Road and Public Order Services (Southern RPOS) Inspector, John Ward, has committed extra staff to perform duty on AFL Grand Final Day to ensure community safety in and around busy entertainment precincts and licenced premises including Salamanca, the Waterfront and the Hobart CBD. Those members will be out in force to ensure AFL Grand Final revellers do not take part in risky behaviours which lead to traumatic consequences. Inspector Ward is seeking to remind members of the public that drinking alcohol in the street is unlawful and anyone wishing to drink alcohol must do so responsibly, at a licensed venue or on private premises. Police will adopt a zero tolerance against public drunkenness and unruly behaviour.

Southern RPOS will also increase their mobile patrols, with booze buses operating throughout the greater Hobart area focusing on drink & drug driving, and other traffic related enforcement activities that will focus on speed detection, inattention, failing to wear seatbelts and using mobile phones whilst driving.

Inspector Ward encourages partygoers to pre-arrange a designated driver, to use public transport or to organise a taxi. Consideration should also be given to arranging alternative accommodation for the night, at either a friend’s house or hotel/motel to ensure your safety. He also encourages people to stick together and look out for one another when going out, or when heading home.

If hosting a party at home, be responsible and ensure there is plenty of food and
non-alcoholic drinks available. Be aware of how much your friends are drinking and ensure they can get home safely.

Inspector Ward is urging all football supporters and members of the general community to enjoy the weekend’s festivities however, to be on their best behaviour to ensure the day is trouble free and enjoyable for all.