Photo: Music Feeds

This is the fourth time the festival has been held at this location and police will again be running a Passive Alert Detection (PAD) dog operation in an effort to reduce drug harm at the event.

With an expected crowd of around 18,000 people, police will have a highly visible presence to prevent incidents such as intoxication, drug use, offensive behaviour, assaults and thefts.

Last year, the PAD dog operation saw 19 people receive drug diversions and three people receive a cannabis caution.

Inspector Jason Kelly said police’s number one priority was the safety of all festival attendees.

“We’ve been working closely with Ambulance Victoria, City of Port Phillip and event organisers to ensure the event is a safe and enjoyable experience for attendees,” Insp Kelly said.

“We know the majority of people attend the festival to enjoy the music and have a good time.

“However, there are still a small number of people who choose to partake in dangerous and illegal behaviour.

“Police will monitor the festival for any anti-social behaviour and alcohol related issues to ensure that everyone can enjoy the event safely.

“We also want to remind everyone to keep an eye on your mates and make sure they are enjoying themselves in a safe and responsible manner.

“We encourage people to attend the event, but do so in a legal, responsible manner.

“For those who don’t, police will be there.”

Local police will be on the lookout for anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related issues when patrons are leaving the festival with a visible presence at nearby licensed venues.

Transit police and Protective Services Officers (PSOs) will be patrolling the public transport network to and from the venue.

Highway Patrol officers will assist crowds leaving the music festival with traffic management.