New Years Eve 2021
Channel: SA Police News
Date: 2021-12-31

With New Year’s Eve celebrations about to be upon us, SAPOL wishes to remind the public they will be out and about across the state to keep the community safe by providing a highly visible presence.

New Year's Eve celebrations will occur across the state, with major events occurring in the CBD and other locations, including Glenelg, Brighton and Victor Harbour. 

Below are some of the key COVID-19 requirements to keep in mind: 

•           10 people maximum at your house at any one time whether it be indoors or  outdoors (including children and infants).
•           1 person per 4 square metres when inside hospitality venues, and 1 person per 2 square metres when dining outside – you must be seated to consume food or beverages. 
•           Use the QR Codes when attending various venues
•           Maintain physical distance where possible and keep to groups of people that you know. 
•           Remember to wash your hands often, isolate at home if you are sick and get a COVID-19 test if you show any symptoms. 

Police Commander for New Year’s Eve, Assistant Commissioner Noel Bamford understands many people will be keen to celebrate the closing out of a year that has been particularly challenging; however safety must be front and centre of people’s minds. 

“Don’t ruin a good night by being irresponsible which could mean your celebrations are cut short and you end up in hospital or police custody.” 

“Plan ahead early and make sure someone knows your plans. Look out for those around you and drink responsibly. Police will be conducting major drink and drug driving operations throughout the night and well into the morning.  Police will also be monitoring for any breaches of COVID-19 Directions and taking action as necessary, which in some cases, could result in a hefty expiation notice, ” said Assistant Commissioner Bamford. 
Members of the public are reminded to report any suspicious behaviour to 131 444, and be extra vigilant in crowded places. 
SA Ambulance Service, Executive Director, Keith Driscoll said that despite COVID-19 restrictions and health pleas for a quiet New Year’s Eve, ambos were gearing up to respond to partygoers in need.
 
“Dancing might be off the agenda, but we’re anticipating that South Australians may still look to toast the arrival of 2022 outdoors, or at home gatherings,” said Mr Driscoll.
 
“New Year’s Eve is also set to get hot, so remember to keep cool and balance alcohol with plenty of water.”
 
“While we don’t want to see anyone bringing in the New Year in the back of an ambulance, if you or anyone you are celebrating with gets into trouble, call Triple Zero (000).”
 
“South Australia, we are urging you to see in 2022 quietly in style, safely and socially distanced” said Mr Driscoll.
 
Additional paramedics and ambulance officers will be out and about across the state this New Year’s Eve, particularly at locations expecting crowds such as Glenelg, the Adelaide CBD and the Big Bash League clash at Adelaide Oval.
For current COVID directions, the COVID-19 Information Line can be reached on 1800 253 787 between the hours of 9am to 5pm, 7 days per week or visit www.sa.gov.au/covid-19 for more information.