Queensland Police are expecting more than 150,000 people to converge on Brisbane’s South Bank area this evening to watch the New Year’s Eve fireworks.
QPS Acting Superintendent Emma Fletcher said people could expect a heightened police presence across entertainment precents and party hotspots, including the Brisbane CBD, Fortitude Valley, Howard Smith Wharves, Kangaroo Point and South Bank.
Acting Superintendent Fletcher said the QPS was urging attendees to plan ahead for the celebrations, with organised travel plans in and out of the city the key to a great NYE.
She said plans should also include thinking about how much alcohol you were planning to drink and how that would affect you.
“If you’re going to drink, don’t get behind the wheel; check public transport schedules or plan ride-sharing services to pick you up where necessary.”
Acting Superintendent Fletcher said police would be out in force at the event, in nightclub precincts and on the roads, and would not tolerate anti-social behaviour.
“Play it smart this New Years, plan your trip in, plan your night out, make smart decisions, and if you see anything that may seem like criminal or anti-social behaviour, walk away, don’t get involved and if necessary, contact police as soon as possible.” she said.
“Look out for your friends and make sure everyone gets home safety for a great start to 2025.”
Acting Superintendent Fletcher said this NYE there would be numerous road, walkway and river closures varying from 4pm on NYE until 2am New Year’s Day across Brisbane CBD and South Brisbane.
New Year’s Eve safety tips
- Stay alert and be aware of your surroundings. If you feel threatened or find yourself in an uncomfortable situation, leave immediately and go to a place where you feel safe.
- Use public transport or taxis where possible and be patient with other commuters waiting for these services.
- Trust your instincts and recognise warning signs.
- Develop a network of people who will assist you in an emergency and let them know where you are going and when you are likely to return.
- Look after your friends.
- Consider the necessity of the items you are carrying in your handbag or wallet and try to keep valuables to a minimum.
Safety tips to those who plan to drink on New Year’s Eve
- Plan ahead as to how many drinks you will have and stick to the plan by monitoring your drinking.
- Book a taxi or designate a driver to ensure you and your friends get home safely.
- Eat before and whilst you are drinking.
- Alternate alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks at a sensible pace.
- Avoid mixing drinks and finish each drink before you have another.
- Do not leave drinks unattended.
- If someone offers to buy you a drink, go up to the bar with that person and accept the drink there.
