Two young people have been arrested after an alleged on-street brawl in Bridport overnight during New Year’s Eve celebrations.
An 18-year-old man and a youth were charged with failing to comply with police direction, while the youth is facing an additional charge of disorderly conduct.
Police said the arrests took place around Bridport’s main road amid what is understood to be several fights in the popular holiday destination overnight.
Another person in Bridport was arrested for drink driving.
The incidents came despite Tasmania Police reporting overall positive behaviour across the state during New Year’s festivities.
Inspector John Toohey said police maintained a strong presence at entertainment precincts and major events throughout the night.
“While police responded to some isolated incidents, the majority of patrons celebrated responsibly,” he said.
“Our focus was on public safety and ensuring everyone could enjoy the night in a safe and respectful way. The cooperation from the public made that possible.”
Officers conducted more than 500 wand searches statewide as part of their safety strategy, with only one pair of scissors located during the operation.
Police made three arrests during the Beerfest event in Launceston, including a 19-year-old Mowbray man who was arrested twice for failing to comply with a police officer and issued one summons for drug offences.
As part of Operation Safe Arrival, officers conducted 1,219 random breath tests, detecting nine drink drivers and four drug drivers. 96 infringement notices were issued to speeding drivers.
In the south, police and firefighters rescued a man who had fallen into the water at Elizabeth St Pier, along with a passerby who attempted to assist. Neither sustained significant injuries.
“While event precincts across the state were busy throughout the night, and there were some arrests, we’re very happy with the overall behaviour of the Tasmanian community,” Inspector Toohey said.
