Police have said they will have a strong presence in and around Bendigo during White Night.
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For its Bendigo debut, the night will see the centre of town transformed by artistic installations and public performance.
Bendigo Local Area Commander Inspector Shane Brundell said he expected the night would be a family friendly event, and that police would be there to allow everyone to enjoy the event.
Inspector Brundell urged people attending White Night to help police keep them safe.
“We are encouraging everyone to come along and enjoy this year’s festival, which we expect to be a safe and relaxing experience for all,” he said.
“We’re also asking people to be mindful of their own behaviour and anything which may negatively impact on others’ enjoyment.
“Help us keep you safe.”
Police will set up a pop up police station at the intersection of Forrest Street and High Street during White Night, to help any members of the public who need assistance.
White Night’s event area has been designated as a declared area.
This gives police specific powers to use electronic wands to search people, clothing and possessions if they suspect them of possessing weapons, or if they are behaving in a disorderly way.
Police will also have the power to request people remove a face covering if they believe they are being used to conceal identity.
Police have also reminded punters that White Night Bendigo is an alcohol free event, and that alcohol can only be consumed within licensed premises in the designated area.
Read more: Council beefs up CCTV to improve safety
From 3pm on September 1 no vehicles will be allowed access to the event area.
Inspector Brundell urged attendees to plan their trip to White Night in advance, and make sure they know how to get home.
Attendees can use ‘Park and Ride’ options to access the event from Lansell Square, LaTrobe University and the Bendigo Racecourse.
Buses from these locations will drop people at Williamson Street near Coles.
White Night will debut from 7pm to 2am in central Bendigo on September 1, when scores of events hit the streets.
Bendigo is the second regional Victorian city to host White Night, following on from Ballarat in 2017.
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