By Luke Voogt
Police are turning up the heat on dangerous drivers and anti-social behaviour as crowds flock to local coastal regions over summer.
Geelong Superintendent Craig Gillard warned police would have a beefed-up and highly-visible presence conducting patrols across Geelong, the Surf Coast and the Bellarine Peninsula.
Police will focus on underage drinking and illicit drug-taking, along with anti-social and drunken behaviour, following the commencement of schoolies and the easing of COVID-19 restrictions allowing local travel.
“We know many people will be particularly keen to travel to our coastal areas and enjoy the sunshine over the summer period, but we ask that you do so safely,” Superintendent Gillard said.
“We want to be very clear that police will not tolerate any form of anti-social or disruptive behaviour and if you act up, we will make sure you’re held accountable.
“It’s important to show respect for the communities, venues and private property you might be visiting and call out irresponsible behaviour when you see it.”
The public could expect to see police patrolling busy locations such as beaches, parks, shopping and entertainment precincts and public transport hubs, Superintendent Gillard said.
“Police will not allow anyone to engage in criminal or disruptive behaviours, particularly those that have a negative impact on the rest of the community.”
Police would also continue to enforce the remaining COVID-19 restrictions under the Chief Health Officer’s directions as part of Operation Summersafe, Superintendent Gillard said.
He encouraged locals and tourists to enjoy themselves but urged them to avoid drinking to excess.
State-based units such as the Mounted Branch, the Public Order Response Team and water police will also assist Operation Summersafe.
Highway Patrol officers will continue to target speeding, drink-and drug-driving, people not wearing seatbelts and driver distraction, which includes mobile phone use and fatigue.
Police urged anyone witnessing suspicious behaviour to phone Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000, or to phone triple-0 in an emergency.
