SPENCE URGES SCHOOLIES NOT TO BECOME A STATISTIC
Published Sunday, 11 November, 2007 at 07:00 AM
Minister for Police, Corrective Services and Sport
The Honourable Judy Spence
Police Minister Judy Spence is urging all school leavers to look after themselves and their mates, as they head to end of year celebrations on the Gold Coast, and around the state.
Ms Spence said with up to 35,000 school leavers expected to head to Surfers Paradise over the first ten days of schoolies this year – it is essential friends look out for each other.
“The Schoolies Festival is seen as a rite of passage for many school leavers in Queensland,” Ms Spence said.
“We don’t want school leavers, after 12 years of hard work, to ruin the rest of their lives in a moment of drug or alcohol fuelled madness.
“Abuse of drugs or alcohol, or the taking of unnecessary risks can quickly turn what should be a fun celebration into a tragedy – leading to a permanent criminal record or even death.
“I urge party-goers to think before they drink, don’t take drugs and don’t put yourself in a position of risk.
“We know school leavers may engage in moments of skylarking – but the message is look out for your mates and don’t be afraid to say enough is enough, to ensure you and your friends don’t become just another statistic.
“I urge all parents who have school leavers attending celebrations to remind their children to be aware of their surroundings and adopt protective behaviour.”
Ms Spence said police will be out in force to support schoolies again this year, but they won’t tolerate dangerous behaviour.
“People putting themselves or others at risk will be dealt with accordingly, in order to maintain safety for all school leavers.
“489 people were arrested during the first ten days of last year’s event at Surfers Paradise – with the majority older hangers-on, known as Toolies.
“People who come to the Gold Coast to cause trouble for school leavers will not be tolerated, and police will take a tough stance when it comes to public disorder offences, violent behaviour and drug supply.
“To avoid being caught up in a police investigation, or suffering the dangerous effects of illegal drugs, schoolies should act responsibly and enjoy the natural high of finishing school.”
Media Contact: Nicola Hazell 0439 673 287
Ms Spence said with up to 35,000 school leavers expected to head to Surfers Paradise over the first ten days of schoolies this year – it is essential friends look out for each other.
“The Schoolies Festival is seen as a rite of passage for many school leavers in Queensland,” Ms Spence said.
“We don’t want school leavers, after 12 years of hard work, to ruin the rest of their lives in a moment of drug or alcohol fuelled madness.
“Abuse of drugs or alcohol, or the taking of unnecessary risks can quickly turn what should be a fun celebration into a tragedy – leading to a permanent criminal record or even death.
“I urge party-goers to think before they drink, don’t take drugs and don’t put yourself in a position of risk.
“We know school leavers may engage in moments of skylarking – but the message is look out for your mates and don’t be afraid to say enough is enough, to ensure you and your friends don’t become just another statistic.
“I urge all parents who have school leavers attending celebrations to remind their children to be aware of their surroundings and adopt protective behaviour.”
Ms Spence said police will be out in force to support schoolies again this year, but they won’t tolerate dangerous behaviour.
“People putting themselves or others at risk will be dealt with accordingly, in order to maintain safety for all school leavers.
“489 people were arrested during the first ten days of last year’s event at Surfers Paradise – with the majority older hangers-on, known as Toolies.
“People who come to the Gold Coast to cause trouble for school leavers will not be tolerated, and police will take a tough stance when it comes to public disorder offences, violent behaviour and drug supply.
“To avoid being caught up in a police investigation, or suffering the dangerous effects of illegal drugs, schoolies should act responsibly and enjoy the natural high of finishing school.”
Media Contact: Nicola Hazell 0439 673 287