Mayor Deb Hamblin and Rockingham police remind residents to celebrate safely over the summer period

The City of Rockingham has teamed up with WA Police to remind holiday revellers to celebrate responsibly this summer.

Rockingham Foreshore will host the annual New Year’s Eve celebration, which will feature 17-time ARIA nominees Birds of Tokyo ringing in the year with a performance between the night’s two firework displays at 9pm and midnight.

The performance is part of the city’s annual free concert Summer Series until March that will also include Australia Day celebrations on January 27 and the West Australian Symphony Orchestra’s Symphony on the Green in February.

Rockingham mayor Deb Hamblin said many locals would take the opportunity to relax and unwind at a number of the city’s events and encouraged them to do so safely.

“To provide a safe and memorable experience for all attendees at our events, the city encourages community members to celebrate in a safe environment and reminds them that alcohol is not permitted in public spaces,” Ms Hamblin said.

“Community safety starts with you and it’s important that people also take steps to ensure they are making it tougher for crooks by locking all doors and windows when possible.

“Removing valuables from vehicles, leaving them locked and secure is one simple step we can all take to help reduce the potential for stealing offences, particularly at beach and boat ramp carparks this summer.”

Ms Hamblin said residents going away on holidays can book a Holiday Watch through the city’s SmartWatch vehicle patrol service.

“You can also help make your city a safer and more connected place by getting involved in the city’s Neighbours Unite program,” she said. “On behalf of the city I would like to wish our community and WAPF a safe and merry Christmas, and a happy New Year.”

Rockingham police officer-in-charge Dan Clark said he and his staff wanted to thank the community for a successful year.

“Collectively, we all hope for a safe and enjoyable festive period with loved ones and I encourage members of our community to act safely and responsibly whilst doing so,” Acting Senior Sergeant Clark said.

“The Rockingham police station serves the community 24 hours a day, seven days a week and this does not change throughout the festive period, as we strive to provide trusted and valued policing in unison with our partner agencies.”