Town’s teen terror

By Paul Dunlop
A TEEN party that spiralled out of control on the weekend has prompted police to warn that if festive celebrations are not kept safe, young revellers – and their parents – will be sorry.
The stern message came after police were called several times to a birthday party in Garfield in the early hours of Sunday morning in response to complaints of hoon driving, drunken youths, loud noise and property damage.
Cardinia District Inspector Chris Notman said the behaviour of many partygoers at the 16th birthday celebration was a disgrace.
Police were first called about 1am and received several other complaints from residents.
The wild antics of several revellers spread around town as the night wore on. Householders’ rubbish bins were tipped over, letter boxes were broken and other property was damaged or destroyed.
The town’s swimming pool was broken into, a flag was stolen and there was also excessive noise from people wandering around the streets, Insp Notman said.
“Police advised the host to cancel the party due to the fact that no adequate controls were in place,” he said. “Unfortunately, that advice was ignored and we ended up with a totally unacceptable situation.”
The police warning comes as part of a concerted effort to stamp out what many residents see as a disturbing trend in the community.
Cardinia Shire officials and police have said they are concerned about vandalism, underage drinking and other antisocial behaviour.
Police, council and the local business community are working together on several initiatives planned to combat the problems.
Insp Notman said police were being increasingly called to parties that were out of control.
With the festive season approaching, Insp Notman said police encouraged hosts of parties to register with PartySafe and lodge it with local authorities a week before the event.
Insp Notman said parents hosting parties for young people should be aware that it was an offence to supply anyone under 18 with alcohol.
He urged people to take sensible steps to reduce the risk of having parties at their home.
“In the leadup to Christmas, I would remind parents that they are responsible for their teenage children’s behaviour,” Insp Notman said.
“Parents should know where their children are going, their mode of transport to and from parties.
“Parents shouldn’t be supplying their teenage sons or daughters with alcohol – it is illegal and if detected they will be booked.”