Police out in force at the Muster

Deniliquin Police officer in charge Jy Brown said the officers deployed in Deniliquin come from a range of policing units and stations across the state.

‘‘As well as general duties police, we’ll have mounted police, trail bike officers and police from our Public Order Riot Squad, Operational Support Group and Highway Patrol,’’ Det Insp Brown said.

‘‘We’ll also have some IT specialists. Most of the officers will come from the Murray River Police District or the Southern Command, while the riot quad and mounted police will come in from metropolitan Sydney.

‘‘We want people to have a good, fun weekend free of incident.

‘‘We therefore ask all patrons to be safe and respectful, and to know that if we do detect any anti-social behaviour those people will be dealt with swiftly.

‘‘Being safe includes consuming alcohol responsibly, which is important this weekend because it is expected to be quite warm.’’

Det Insp Brown said it’s also important for people to remember that all NSW road rules apply within the Muster’s gates.

‘‘Whether you are on, heading to or heading from the Muster site, you must obey the road rules.

‘‘We ask people to drive to the conditions and to recognise and act on signs of fatigue.

‘‘Police will be conducting road enforcement related activities, including random breath tests.’’

Police will be based on site at the Ute Muster, and the emergency operations precinct near gate one (the main entrance after passing through the Muster gates).

The precinct also incorporates medical and fire services. In an emergency, you should still phone 000.Operation Slow Down started today and is in effect until 11.59pm Monday.

It aims to heighten public awareness to the dangers of excessive or inappropriate speed, alcohol and drug driving, fatigue, non-wearing of occupant restraints and helmets, as well as distractions (mobile phones etc) during the Labour Day long weekend.

Double demerit points will be in effect until the operation has finished.