Revellers urged to enjoy Cup but plan ahead

ACT Policing is reminding Canberrans celebrating Tuesday’s Melbourne Cup to plan ahead and drink responsibly.

ACT Policing will have a high-visibility presence at Thoroughbred Park and a strong presence in and around Civic and other licensed venues as patrons continue their celebrations.

Targeted and random breath testing will be conducted across Canberra.

Operational Commander Acting Superintendent Adrian Craft is encouraging people to enjoy the ‘race that stops a nation’ but not at the expense of others.

“We want people to go out and enjoy themselves on Melbourne Cup day but we won’t tolerate any anti-social behaviour or those that decide to act irresponsibly by drinking and driving,” A/G Superintendent Craft said.

“All we are asking is that if you plan to drink, then drink responsibly, plan ahead and utilise public transport or organise a lift home – help us keep our roads safe.”

Last year Traffic Operations maintained a high profile presence on ACT roads conducting 907 roadside screening tests for alcohol on Melbourne Cup day, of which two resulted in positive results.

The Roadside Safety Operations Team also conducted 31 random roadside drug tests, with nil positive results.

There will be free ACTION buses running from Thoroughbred Park to the Civic bus station between 4pm and 8pm (last bus to leave Thoroughbred Park at 7.30pm).