Tasmania Police is generally happy with the behaviour of Tasmanians during New Year’s Eve celebrations last night.

Police had a highly visible police presence across the state, focused on community safety and anti-social behaviour. 

Inspector Matthew McCreadie from Southern Police said “Last night the Hobart waterfront was highly populated with people celebrating New Year’s Eve. Pleasingly most of the crowd were well behaved. Disappointingly around 18 people were arrested in Southern Tasmania overnight relating to anti-social behaviour and other alcohol related offences.”    

In the North, Inspector Justin Bidgood, said “Crowds at Beerfest and licensed premises in the Launceston CBD were generally well behaved only minor anti-social behaviour incidents occurring.”

Further, in Western Tasmania, Acting Inspector Stewart Williams said it was a reasonably busy night across the Western District. “From 9pm last night there were seven Arrests in the Western District. Only one of these was Public Order related but, disappointingly five were for drink driving offences.” 

“The public is reminded that police will continue patrolling the roads in increased numbers throughout this holiday period and strongly encourage all motorists to make responsible decisions with regards to their driving behaviour, said Acting Inspector Williams.”