Police have thanked the majority of revellers at New Year’s Eve celebrations across Brisbane and the South-East as crowds were generally well behaved.
Families and those keen to welcome in 2023 flocked to firework vantage points across Brisbane, the Gold and Sunshine Coasts, as well as packing entertainment hubs and Safe Night Precincts.
Attendance figures appear slightly down on last year as an estimated 60,000 people joined in the festivities at South Bank by midnight.
Mooloolaba saw crowd numbers of around 25,000 for the 8.30pm fireworks and around 35,000 for the midnight fireworks and large numbers congregated in beachfront locations on both the Gold and Sunshine Coasts.
Acting Chief Superintendent Christopher Stream said police were pleased with the overall behaviour of party-goers with most undeterred by the intermittent wet weather.
“Police are generally pleased to have seen a decrease in arrests on New Year’s Eve,” Acting Chief Superintendent Stream said.
“The overwhelming majority of revellers were very well behaved throughout the night.”
A total of 41 people were arrested on 55 charges in the South Bank, Brisbane CBD and Fortitude Valley areas*.
On the Gold Coast police arrested 20 people on 23 charges and on the Sunshine Coast 34 people were arrested on 41 charges*.
The majority of charges were for anti-social behaviour and alcohol related incidents, such as public nuisance and liquor offences.
Police patrols of local beaches, including the mounted unit, were kept busy with revellers and to help manage alcohol related incidents, police patrols tipped out alcohol carried by juveniles or intoxicated people in public places and issued move on directions.
“We will continue to have a large police presence at events such as these to ensure that families and the majority of people get to enjoy a safe and incident free night.
“Violence and anti-social behaviour has no place on Queensland’s streets and we are pleased people are receiving our message that violent behaviour will not be tolerated.”
Acting Chief Superintendent Stream reminded motorists that police will be out in force on our road networks for the remainder of NYD, with drivers warned they may could still be over the alcohol limit if driving today.
“Many motorists are intercepted and arrested hours after having their final drinks. Alcohol can stay in your system long after you finish drinking and impair your driving abilities,’ he said.
*Preliminary figures subject to change
