Police are urging punters to enjoy themselves at two music festivals in Newcastle this weekend, but warned they won't tolerate risky behaviour.
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The This That music festival will be held at Wickham Park, Newcastle, from 1.30pm this Saturday, and the Scene and Heard festival will be held the following day from 12.30pm at the same location.
Organisers are expecting up to 20,000 people to attend the festivals over the weekend.
A police operation will be conducted involving officers from Newcastle City Police District, with the assistance from the NSW Police Dog Unit.
Newcastle City Police District Commander, Acting Superintendent Gerard Lawson said the vast majority of patrons were well-behaved year on year, however police would act if people chose to break the law.
"These music events attract thousands of people from across the Hunter and up from Sydney," Acting Superintendent Lawson said.
"We want everyone to enjoy both events this weekend, but we want them to always have their safety and the safety of others at the front of their minds.
"Police will not tolerate any form of anti-social or criminal behaviour and will be targeting any illegal activity as well as alcohol-related crime. Please behave responsibly and look out for each other - if someone isn't feeling well, make sure you seek medical assistance immediately."
Additional Traffic and Highway Patrol officers will be deployed to the area to make sure festival-goers and other motorists make it to and from their destinations safely.
"Community safety is our top priority, and we urge music fans and other Novocastrians to take care in and around the event site. Stay alert while behind the wheel, and always have a Plan B," Acting Superintendent Lawson said.
"Poor choices can have serious consequences and we urge all people attending these festivals to remain safe, look after your friends, and don't risk your health or the health of others."
