Brendan Simpkins

GAWLER police have praised the behaviour of locals over New Year’s Eve with no major incidents occurring.

Police attended a number of private premises in relation to noise, however no significant issues were reported.

Due to COVID-19 restrictions, only 50 people were allowed inside a private residence but no breaches were detected by Police.

More than 100 breath tests were conducted on drivers in the area, with only one driver reported for exceeding the limit.

The driver recorded a positive reading of 0.081%.

Police said they were “very pleased” with the public’s behaviour during New Year’s Eve celebrations.

Those sentiments were echoed by Acting Assistant Commissioner, Security and Emergency Management Service, John Venditto who praised the conduct of the wider South Australian community.

“Most people were eager to enjoy the night and to do the right thing, with only a small minority making poor choices that required police attention,” he said.

“While planning for New Year’s Eve involves a large police contingent, we knew that the absence of any formal celebrations would mean that New Year’s Eve would look different to previous years.

“But we still planned on large groups of people who would be still keen to celebrate, unwind and close the chapter of what has been a very difficult year.

“I would like to acknowledge those police officers and other emergency services who worked across the state to ensure the safety of the community.”

Across the state there were 78 arrests, 15 people reported and 139 expiation notices issued for offences including mainly consuming alcohol in a dry zone, plus drug possession.

The number of arrests was a reduction from last year which saw 106 arrests and 20 people reported.