Western Australia's South West region is preparing for the arrival of nearly 9000 school leavers next week, with police promising a visible presence and zero tolerance approach to anti-social behaviour.
Police Presence and Safety Focus
South West Superintendent Paul van Noort has confirmed that additional police resources from Perth will be deployed throughout the region during the Leavers 2025 celebrations, which run from Monday through Thursday.
"We're not there to spoil the fun, we're there to make sure that the event is safe and that leavers can celebrate safely," Superintendent van Noort emphasised.
Police patrols will operate 24/7 in key areas including Dunsborough, Busselton, and Margaret River, with a strong focus on both the official Leavers venues and surrounding communities.
Road Safety and New Restrictions
Authorities are particularly concerned about road safety as thousands of young drivers make their way to the South West. Superintendent van Noort issued a stern warning to all drivers attending the celebrations.
"We're urging every driver to be smart about their choices... no drink driving, no drugs, concentrate on your driving," he stated.
New P-plater restrictions now in effect mean red P-platers can only carry one passenger. Police emphasised these rules are designed to reduce risks and save lives on regional roads.
Designated Areas and Search Powers
Areas around Dunsborough and the official Leavers zone will be declared designated areas, granting police additional powers to check attendees for knives and other weapons.
Officers will also maintain the ability to search vehicles under existing laws if they suspect criminal activity. "If you break the law, the police are there in numbers and you will be dealt with," Superintendent van Noort warned.
Major Drug Seizures Pre-Event
In a targeted operation ahead of Leavers, police have already seized significant quantities of illegal substances and cash from the region. The three-day operation resulted in six people being charged and the confiscation of:
- 100 grams of heroin
- 70 grams of cannabis
- 20 grams of cocaine
- 40 grams of methamphetamine
- Over $350,000 in cash
Officers also recovered a sawn-off shotgun allegedly stolen during a burglary in February 2015.
"If you're going to come down and commit crimes in the South West, then chances are you're going to be noticed, and if you commit crimes, we are going to arrest you," Superintendent van Noort declared.
Event Details and Restrictions
Official Leavers events include The Zone in Dunsborough and the BeachFest day party at Meelup Beach. All events are strictly ticketed and operate as alcohol, drug, smoking and vape-free zones.
Roads around designated events will be closed to general traffic, with access limited to free bus services for ticket holders. Pedestrians will not be admitted to official events.
Recent school leavers must collect their pre-ordered wristbands from designated locations in Dunsborough, Busselton, and Vasse to gain entry to official events.
Despite the strong warnings, Superintendent van Noort expressed confidence in the behaviour of most young attendees, noting that based on previous years, he expects conduct to be "overall very good."
He concluded with advice for all Leavers participants: "Look after yourself, look after your mates, and the communities that welcome you down there. The safest choice is not to consume alcohol or drugs."
