Mornington Peninsula Shire Council has outlined a range of safety and crowd management measures ahead of New Year’s Eve, with preparations focused on popular foreshore areas expected to attract large numbers of people.
The Shire confirmed it is working with Victoria Police and emergency services to manage anticipated crowds, particularly around the Sorrento and Rye foreshores. Council has again confirmed it is not running any official New Year’s Eve events.
Mayor Anthony Marsh said the focus was on public safety, planning ahead and respectful behaviour.
“New Year’s Eve is always a busy time on the Peninsula, especially around our foreshores. We are asking everyone to plan ahead, follow signage and directions from police and authorised officers, and look out for one another,” Cr Marsh said.
Alcohol bans and prohibited items
An alcohol ban will be in place across council-owned public spaces and foreshores from 9pm on 30 December through to midnight on 1 January. The Shire has also reiterated that fireworks, flares and similar items are prohibited on foreshores.
Council officers and police will be present throughout the evening to enforce restrictions and respond to safety concerns.
Closures and restricted access
Several sites will be closed or restricted on New Year’s Eve, including Rye Pier and The Baths Sorrento jetty. The Rye Carnival will also be closed for the evening.
Temporary road and car park closures are expected near high-traffic areas, with reduced speed limits along sections of Point Nepean Road between Portsea and Sorrento from late afternoon.
Lighting towers, first aid services, hydration stations and youth support services will be positioned at key locations, including Sorrento Foreshore, to assist with crowd safety.
Transport and planning ahead
Residents and visitors are being urged to plan their travel in advance, with additional and late-night bus services scheduled on routes connecting Frankston with Sorrento, Dromana and Crib Point. Public transport services are expected to operate into the early hours of New Year’s Day.
Council has also reminded parents and carers to supervise children at all times and to contact emergency services immediately if a child becomes separated or if unsafe behaviour is observed.
Clean-up and community responsibility
Council crews will undertake a clean-up of foreshore areas on New Year’s Day, with visitors encouraged to dispose of rubbish responsibly and respect local communities.
Cr Marsh said the message was simple.
“We want everyone to enjoy the night safely and return home without incident. A little planning and consideration for others goes a long way.”
Emergency services can be contacted on 000 in an emergency, while non-urgent assistance can be sought through Victoria Police or relevant council services.
