Zero tolerance approach at Bathurst 1000

Oct. 5, 2012, 8:30 a.m.

NSW Police will be out in force at the Bathurst 1000 this weekend.

RACEGOERS heading to this weekend's Bathurst 1000 are reminded hundreds of extra police will be out in force to ensure the event is safe and enjoyable for everyone.

Operation Astron, the security operation for the 2012 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000, was launched yesterday and will run until Monday October 8.

The operation consists of about 300 officers, including general duties police who will have a zero tolerance to anti-social behaviour.

Officers from the dog unit, bicycle unit, PolAir, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Public Order and Riot Squad (PORS), Operation Support Group and the Police Transport Command will be on duty across the weekend.

Operation Astron Commander Assistant Commissioner Geoff McKechnie said in recent years the race had shifted towards being a more family-friendly event, and police are working to ensure that trend continues.

"Despite more people attending the event than ever before, year after year we continue to see a decrease in anti-social behaviour which, in turn, has led to a significant decrease in arrests and charges," he said.

"We're extremely proud of the recent results as it shows the increased police presence, along with the alcohol restrictions, has meant the race can now be enjoyed by people of all ages - including young families.

"A large number of police, uniformed and plain clothed, will be patrolling the event precinct again this year and providing a highly-visible and mobile policing response.

"Police will also be enforcing the strict alcohol restrictions and they have the power to confiscate alcohol without warning and can request racegoers dispose of their alcohol.

Assistant Commissioner McKechnie reminded everyone planning on drinking alcohol to be responsible for their actions and to also look out for their friends who may be intoxicated and vulnerable.

"Alcohol impairs your judgement and can lead to very poor decision making so it's important people take the time to think about the consequences of their actions," he said.

"Just know your limits and don't take risks that can lead you to either becoming a victim of crime or an offender.

Police will be everywhere and if you are seen behaving anti-socially or breaking the law, you will be evicted from the event and possibly arrested.

"To put it simply, we want people to think before they drink."

Racegoers are reminded the following alcohol restrictions are in place:

- One carton (24 cans) of full-strength beer;

- One carton (30 cans) of light- or mid-strength beer;

- One cask of wine; or