The NSW Police Force has launched a high-visibility policing operation ahead of the 42nd annual Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade this weekend.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Tony Crandell, was joined Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras Chief Executive Officer, Albert Kruger, to launch Operation Mardi Gras 2020 at the Sydney Police Centre today (Friday 28 February 2020).
The police operation will involve general duties officers assisted by specialist units, including the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command.
"Police have been working very closely with parade organisers and the LGBTIQ community to ensure a safe and fun night for all those participating in and supporting the event," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
"With significant crowds expected to make their way through major transport hubs before and after the parade tomorrow, police will be focused on maintaining public safety and security.
"We want everyone – spectators, participants and the general public – to enjoy their night safely, so we are urging those supporting the event to plan your night ahead of time; know how you are getting into the city, what you're doing at the parade and how you're getting home," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
This year, the NSW Police Force will also celebrate three decades of the LGBTIQ Liaison Officer (GLLO) program, created in 1990 to support gender diverse police officers and the community.
Assistant Commissioner Crandell said 2020 marks a significant milestone for the NSW Police Force who have come a long way in building strong relationships with the LGBTIQ communities and organisations.
"Our GLLO program has expanded significantly over the past 30 years, with officers and civilian staff specially trained to provide support to gender diverse people in communities across New South Wales," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
"In it's first two years of operation, the GLLO program had 19 officers who were specially-trained and deployed to police stations across the state to build relationships with the public.
"Today, we have more than 240 GLLOs – who work with their colleagues to provide informed and responsive services to members of the LGBTIQ community.
"NSW Police is committed to celebrating diversity and creating a supportive environment for everyone to feel safe and included, out in the community and at work," Assistant Commissioner Crandell said.
For more information about the 2020 Mardi Gras parade, visit http://www.mardigras.org.au.
Access the 'Trip Planner' application and check the latest timetable and ticketing information for trains, buses, ferries and taxi ranks via www.transportnsw.info.
Keep up- to-date with special event traffic information as well as live traffic reports by visiting www.livetraffic.com.
For further information on alcohol-free zones in Sydney visit the City of Sydney website: www.cityofsydney.nsw.gov.au.
