Police to bulk up presence for Geraldton concert

Geraldton Police are gearing up for a busy weekend as Triple J’s One Night Stand concert comes to town tomorrow.

While police are not expecting any major problems at the concert, the influx of an estimated 15,000 people into Geraldton means officers from surrounding regions will be called upon.

Acting Sergeant Paul Featherstone from Geraldton Police said drinking and anti-social behaviour would be targeted this weekend.

“The One Night Stand Concert is classed as a drug and alcohol free event and the organisers and police want it to be family friendly,” he said.

“We do expect the hotels and night club will be very busy after the concert, and we are working closely with the licensed venues to ensure they are prepared.

“There will be a large overt and covert presence of police during the weekend, and we will be targeting street drinking, anti-social behaviour and drugs.”

With the milestone event drawing large numbers to Geraldton, accommodation in the town has been completely booked out.

Tent cities have been established to cater for the overflow which Sgt Featherstone said could present an opportunity for criminals.

“Unfortunately some criminals will commit crimes against people and property,” he said.

“Everyone needs to make it tougher for crooks by locking all doors and windows, securing all your valuables out of sight and don’t leave anything valuable in your vehicles, camping grounds or tent cities.

“At home ensure you secure all your valuable items, check your security lights and talk to your neighbours so you are looking out for each other.”

The roads servicing Geraldton are also expected to be extremely busy over the weekend which Sgt Featherstone said would be monitored by police.

“We expect there will be a larger than normal number of vehicles on the main arterial roads heading into Geraldton on Friday and during the weekend, and drivers need to drive to the conditions and be patient,” he said.

“If you are driving throughout the weekend, do not drink and drive as you will get stopped by police and please report any suspicious activity or persons.”