Big crowds urged to use buses

Police beef up security

NINETY civilian and military police will be stationed at Anzac Day services on The Strand and Jezzine Barracks, with record crowds expected to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Gallipoli.

Inspector Roger Whyte said 84 uniformed and plain clothes police, and six military police, would be on duty.

“There are no concerns. There are no known threats to activities here,” he said.

“But we are still mindful of the overall state of play overseas, and in Australia.

“We would remind people to be vigilant and aware of their surroundings on what is one of the most important days on our calendar.”

Townsville leaders have urged residents to stand proud and honour Diggers on Anzac Day in the face of an alleged foiled terror attack in Victoria.

Five men allegedly connected to ISIS were arrested in Victoria on Saturday, and have been accused of plotting an Anzac Day terror attack.

Northern Region Acting Assistant Commissioner Paul Taylor has said the police presence at Anzac ceremonies in Townsville would be high and officers would be on the lookout for suspicious activity.

Up to 50,000 people are expected to line The Strand on Saturday for the city’s largest ever Anzac Day celebration.

The public is being urged to use the free park and ride service on the day.

Buses will run from three parking stations at Cutheringa Park at West End, the Dean Street carpark in South Townsville and Lou Lister Park at Hermit Park.

It will be the first time the park and ride service has run on Anzac Day and Mayor Jenny Hill has urged residents to familiarise themselves with road closures and transport options and plan early.

“We are expecting a huge turnout and the council has worked closely with the Queensland Police Service and Department of Main Roads to finalise traffic management arrangements for moving people in and out of The Strand as smoothly as possible,” she said.

“To reduce traffic congestion, we’re asking people to take up the park- and- ride option.

“The buses are free and will provide regular services to Jezzine Barracks, Mitchell St at the back of Strand Park, and Anzac Park area and will take people close to where they want to go without the hassle of finding a park.

Park- and- ride services will start at 4am for the Dawn Service and include an 8am service for the parade.

About 2200 car parks have been catered for at the three parking stations.

Council events manager Jeff Jimmieson said signs were already up in North Ward advising of road closures.

“The arrangements we have in place are there to keep traffic flowing as best we can but it’s important people are patient, courteous and plan ahead,” he said.