New Year’s Eve celebrations on the Mornington Peninsula and across Victoria saw a strong police presence, with general duties officers supported by specialist units, including the Public Order Response Team, Mounted Branch, Highway Patrol, and Air Wing.
Despite some isolated incidents, police have expressed satisfaction with the behaviour of the majority of revellers. Assistant Commissioner Chris Gilbert commended the community for celebrating responsibly, saying:
“There were only a small number of people who did the wrong thing, but they were dealt with swiftly by police, so the atmosphere was in no way spoiled.”
However, there were notable exceptions. Police responded to 52 assault-related incidents statewide overnight, including the stabbing of a 16-year-old boy in Blairgowrie. The teenager was approached by a group on Point Nepean Road around 5:45 pm and sustained non-life-threatening injuries. Police quickly arrested two teenagers connected to the attack, and investigations are ongoing.
Police also received 287 reports of fireworks-related incidents, several of which resulted in fires. Fortunately, no serious injuries were reported. The largest seizure on the Mornington Peninsula took place in Safety Beach, where officers confiscated two large plastic containers of illegal fireworks.
In addition, OMNI operations conducted in Melbourne, St Kilda, and Geelong led to the seizure of 23 weapons, reflecting proactive efforts to maintain public safety during the celebrations.
Victoria Police have confirmed that their strong presence will continue today, particularly in popular foreshore areas, as warm weather increases for summer. Random drug and alcohol testing will also be conducted statewide, with drivers urged to make safe choices.
“For those driving home today – remember we will be setting up random drug and alcohol testing sites across the state, so if you think you’re over – please do not take the risk, as chances are you’ll be caught,”
Said Assistant Commissioner Gilbert.
Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious activity to Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000 or submit an online report.
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