Police to crack down on drugs at Meredith

Alex de Vos
Police yesterday announced a crackdown on drugs and drink driving at this weekend’s Meredith Music Festival after a near-fatal overdose at the annual three-day event last year.
Moorabool Inspector Gerry Rudkins said more than 40 police officers would patrol the festival along with sniffer dogs in a bid to stamp out illicit drug use and “unruly behaviour”.
Police would also test drivers around the festival for drugs as well as alcohol.
“Last year we charged quite a number of people with possession of different substances and we really want to keep an eye on it this year and prevent further overdoses,” Insp Rudkins said.
Meredith Music Festival crowds were “generally” well behaved, he said.
“But there’s anecdotal evidence to suggest illicit drug use does take place at the venue, with the possibility of some trafficking.”
Insp Rudkins urged revellers to use public transport or “designate a driver” to avoid getting behind the wheel under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“Breath tests will be conducted by local traffic management units and a booze and drug bus will also be operating,” he said.
“People should know that if they’re thinking of taking the risk and driving while under the influence of alcohol or drugs the chances of them being caught is very high.
“We don’t want to put a dampener on people’s celebrations but we’re warning that those who are caught breaking the law will face the appropriate fines and penalties.”
Police expect more than 10,000 people to attend the festival, promoted as Australia’s largest independent music event.
Last year police arrested a 28-year-old man for rape at the festival.
“This year we hope an increased visible police presence at the festival will help deter thefts and assaults,” Insp Rudkins said.
The 2008 event on farmland outside the town north-west of Geelong, will feature a range of Australian and international bands.
The line-up includes MGMT, Little Red, Muscles, Tame Impala, Saul Williams, Man Man, The Bronx, The Mountain Goats, Architecture in Helsinki, Regurgitator, Violent Soho, The Datsuns, Ten East, Adam Green and The Ruby Suns.