NSW Police are urging footy fans to keep the competition family-friendly and behave responsibly ahead of this weekend’s Grand Final.
Police will conduct a high-visibility operation, comprising officers from across the South West Metropolitan Region assisted by specialist police to ensure the safety and security of officials, players and the estimated 80,000 spectators who will be in attendance.
Gates will open at 1pm for preliminary matches and entertainment, and those attending are urged to arrive early.
Security guards will assist police in targeting troublemakers, anti-social behaviour, and alcohol-related crime at the stadium, and to ensure all fans get to and from the stadium safely.
Assistant Commissioner Stuart Smith said the police operation aims to ensure everyone’s grand final experience is enjoyable, memorable and free from any anti-social or criminal behaviour.
“While we expect the passion and emotions of the spectators to be heightened, please remember to be considerate of others and cheer on your teams respectfully,” he said.
“Those who choose to act inappropriately will be dealt with promptly; this could mean ejection from the stadium and/or banning notices, with fines, or even criminal charges.
“Fans need to be considerate of others during post-match celebrations and, whether your team wins or loses, there is no excuse for violence, intimidation, or anti-social behaviour.”
As temperatures are expected to soar this weekend, coupled with a try-scoring-fest, Assistant Commissioner Smith urges game attendees to drink responsibly.
“To everyone celebrating across the state, please ensure you are drinking plenty of water, wear sunscreen and seek shade during the day,” he said.
“Drink responsibly, know your limits, and keep an eye on your friends.”
To assist in avoiding disruption and disappointment, spectators are urged to plan their trip ahead of time and utilise public transport services.
Visit the events page at www.transportnsw.info or call 131 500 for all the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries, light rail and taxi ranks.
Motorists driving to Sydney Olympic Park are reminded to book their parking in advance and allow plenty of travel time and expect significant delays, particularly around the venue before and after the match.
For all special-event traffic information and live traffic reports, refer to the live traffic website for details: www.livetraffic.com.
Assistant Commissioner Smith also encouraged ticketholders to check conditions of entry and allow plenty of time when entering the stadium.
Troy Dodds is the Weekender’s Managing Editor and Breaking News Reporter. He has more than 20 years experience as a journalist, working with some of Australia’s leading media organisations. In 2023, he was named Editor of the Year at the Mumbrella Publish Awards.
