Police ready for A-League final

Victoria Police will have a visible presence at this Saturday’s A-League Grand Final at AAMI Park, ensuring Victory and City fans enjoy the game and get home safely.

With a sell-out crowd set to attend the first ever Victory/City Grand Final, police have bolstered resourcing around the venue, surrounding licensed venues and public transport hubs throughout Richmond and the CBD.

This presence will begin Saturday afternoon and go well into the evening as supporters celebrate or commiserate at licensed venues across the city.

General duties police will be supported by the Mounted Branch, Highway Patrol, and Public Order Response Team, and State Liquor Unit who will be working in and around licensed venues to ensure compliance with liquor licensing.

Transit police and PSOs will also be at public transport hubs to ensure commuters get to and from the event safely.

While the focus this weekend will be on preventing and deescalating any incidents, police will have zero tolerance for anyone engaging in reckless or anti-social behaviour, whether it is before or after the match.

Only two weeks ago a splinter group of supporters lit around 15 flares under a bridge on Swan Street while marching to a game on Saturday 17 May.

Police have serious concerns about this behaviour as billowing smoke under a train line can disrupt the public transport network and cause safety issues.

Victoria Police has undertaken significant planning and worked closely with the A-League, clubs, stadium management, security providers and licensees to ensure the event is safe for those attending and the entire community.

With big crowds expected, patrons are encouraged to arrive early.

Quotes attributable to CBD Acting Commander Zorka Dunstan:

“There will be an unbelievable atmosphere on Saturday night as two traditional Melbourne rivals meet in the Grand Final for the first time.

“The bumper crowd can expect to see plenty of police on the way to the game and at the ground itself.

“The majority of supporters do the right thing and create an incredible environment for everyone in attendance, including families.

“However, at times this year we have seen a very small group of supporters engage in reckless and anti-social behaviour.

“Due to their actions, some of these people are barred from attending this Saturday’s big game.

“We don’t want this small group to tarnish the event for the rest of the soccer community.

“Those in Richmond, particularly Swan Street, can expect to see a strong and dedicated police presence throughout the entire night.”

Media Unit

130311