NSW Police are pleased with the behaviour of the overwhelming majority of revellers and supporters, with this year’s Mardi Gras parade conducted in perfect weather conditions.
Operation Commander, Assistant Commissioner Anthony Cooke, said with minor exceptions, the crowd was well-behaved and the 45th Sydney Gay and Lesbian Mardi Gras parade proceeded yesterday (Saturday 26 February 2023), largely without incident.
Operation Mardi Gras 2023 incorporated a high-visibility policing operation partnering with stakeholders including parade organisers as well as governmental departments and agencies including Destination NSW, the Department of Premier and Cabinet, Transport for NSW, Sydney Trains, NSW Ambulance, Fire and Rescue NSW, and City of Sydney.
More than 900 officers were deployed into the field, comprising general duties officers attached to police area commands and police districts from across NSW, along with specialist officers from the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, Dog Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, and Police Transport Command.
The NSW Police Force was once again represented in the Mardi Gras celebrations, a parade tradition since 1998.
One police officer suffered a suspected broken nose during an arrest in Oxford Street while a second officer suffered grazes and a black eye after being assaulted while enroute to Moore Park. Inquiries are continuing to identify those responsible.
Police arrested four people for offences including assault police.
As World Pride events continue this week, police are urging all participants to celebrate safely and to watch out for their mates.