CENTRAL Victorians are urged to stay safe this New Year's Eve, with additional police resources out in force.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Thousands of officers will patrol regional centres, key holiday destinations, and the Melbourne central business district as revellers ring in 2022.
There will also be additional protective services officers on the public transport network, including at stations around Bendigo.
Related news: Train travel to Melbourne will be free on New Year's Eve
Highway Patrol officers will continue to monitor drivers for offences like speeding and drink-driving, after hundreds of people were caught breaking the law over the Christmas period.
Acting Sergeant Peter Dyer earlier this week reminded people to stay off the roads if they were planning on drinking.
"With New Year's Eve coming up and the hot weather, we really want people to think about planning ahead," he said. "If you're drinking at all, don't drive.
"If you do have a big night, don't take for granted that you'll be fine the next day. You might not be."
Police have also warned against the use of illegal fireworks, with those caught likely to face up to 15 years in jail and substantial fines.
Read other news: Victoria secures 34 million rapid antigen tests
"Everyone needs to be aware of their own personal responsibility to look after themselves and others this New Year's Eve," Deputy Commissioner Rick Nugent said.
"We know excessive drinking and use of illicit drugs can lead to devastating consequences including violent crime, serious assault, anti-social behaviour, and road trauma.
"Make sure you plan ahead and work out how you are going to get to and from your destination.
"It would be devastating to think that someone might not live to enjoy 2022 because of a bad decision made on New Year's Eve."
Our journalists work hard to provide local, up-to-date news to the community. This is how you can access our trusted content:
- Download our app on iOS and Android
- Bookmark bendigoadvertiser.com.au
- Make sure you are signed up for our breaking and regular headlines newsletters
- Follow us on Twitter @BgoAddy
- Follow us on Instagram @bendigoadvertiser
- Join us on Facebook
- Follow us on Google News