Western Australia Police has praised the behaviour of crowds attending the various Australia Day celebrations across the State with people particularly well behaved in the metropolitan area.

“The last two Skyworks have been the best ever,” Commissioner Karl O’Callaghan APM said. “A new trend is emerging with most people arriving for Skyworks around 6.30pm and leaving straight after the fireworks.”

In regard to the Skyworks event, police statistics on antisocial behaviour were the lowest on record with 23 arrests, 47 move on notices and 39 liquor infringements.

The designated drinking zones in Kings Park and on The Esplanade presented few concerns with those choosing to celebrate in these areas being predominantly family groups.

“I would not hesitate to recommend the establishment of such areas again,” Commissioner O’Callaghan said. “The days of people coming down with a carton of beer are long gone and members of the public are telling me this was the safest event in years. I make no apologies for the large police presence which ensured that a safe, harm free environment was provided.”

“Families are coming down to the Skyworks zones and enjoying the changed culture of the event and I intend that it should stay that way.”