Category: NSW News

Doctors can prescribe medicines via email or fax from April 17, making it more convenient for patients to access medications from their pharmacists during the COVID-19 crisis.
Health Minister Brad Hazzard said under the NSW Government changes announced today GPs and nurse practitioners will be able to send a digital image of the prescription.
“These changes are designed to make accessing your medications easier and safer, particularly for those in the community with chronic conditions,” Mr Hazzard said.
“It ensures people with compromised immune systems will not need to go to the doctor’s surgery in person and can get their script entirely through a telehealth appointment.”
Only allowing scripts to be sent by email or fax rather than via text to a pharmacist, will stop potential prescription forgery and diversion to the criminal supply chain.
The regulation amendment follows other recent changes including the strengthening of laws against people who spit or cough on health workers, including pharmacy staff.
President of the Pharmacy Guild of NSW, David Heffernan, said the new $5,000 fines send a clear message that frontline healthcare workers should be treated with respect.
“Community pharmacists and their staff are working tirelessly to put patients’ needs first, often under stressful conditions and we will be here until the end,” Mr Heffernan said.
NSW Health is also addressing the availability of prescription and over-the-counter medicines by introducing limits to ensure equitable access. Pharmacists are also able to dispense certain medications without a prescription and can stay open 24/7.
Families can also take advantage of an initiative announced earlier this year, enabling pharmacists to administer flu vaccines to anyone over 10 years of age.
Advice to pharmacists is available at Advice for community pharmacies on COVID-19.

Bushfire-affected landholders will now have access to their share of up to $209 million to help cover the cost of rebuilding boundary fences, after Deputy Premier John Barilaro today launched the NSW Government’s ‘Supporting our Neighbours’ project.
Mr Barilaro said the project, funded through the Government’s $2.3 billion COVID-19 stimulus package, would not only help farmers recover, but would provide a much-needed shot in the arm for regional economies at a critical time.
“Under this package, we will provide up to $5,000 per kilometre for the purchase of materials to rebuild existing fences adjoining public lands damaged by the summer fires, which will go a long way to helping farmers cover the cost,” Mr Barilaro said.
“This is a great opportunity for all landholders to engage the services of their local contractors at a time when supporting local businesses has never been more vital.
“This is about helping bushfire-affected communities get back on their feet and so we are doing everything we can to make sure that happens.”
Minister for Agriculture Adam Marshall said the funding would be delivered through a one-off grant, which would also be issued retrospectively to help cover the costs already incurred by landholders.
“We know this has been a major issue for fire-affected farmers and we’ve listened to those concerns,” Mr Marshall said.
“We will have dedicated boundary fence coordinators working with farmers to identify their needs and negotiate with the public land managers to ensure money gets into farmers’ pockets as soon as possible.
“We’re encouraging landholders to use this opportunity to upgrade their fencing bordering public lands and use fire resilient materials wherever possible. Landholders who have already started rebuilding can still receive a backdated payment.”
For more information about the program visit www.lls.nsw.gov.au. Eligible landholders can apply for the program online at the LLS website, by expressing their interest for a callback service via one of the 11 regional LLS Facebook pages or by calling 1300 778 080.

Healthcare workers will now have access to free parking at public hospital car parks, as the NSW Government works to ease the burden on our hospital workers during this health crisis.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said the NSW Government is doing everything it can to reduce the stress on our health staff who are working around the clock during this pandemic.
“Our healthcare workers are on the frontline of our battle with COVID-19 and we need to do whatever we can to support them during this difficult time,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“We hope this new measure makes life a little easier for our doctors, nurses and other hospital staff who are working hard to keep us all safe.”
Minister for Health Brad Hazzard said the new measures would take effect across NSW from today, April 10, 2020.
“This means all rostered on staff from doctors, nurses and allied health staff to our other frontline heroes – the cleaners and security staff who make sure our hospitals run smoothly – can park for free at public hospital car parks,” said Mr Hazzard.
“It is critical that our frontline workers are able to access their place of work as easily as possible and we are taking these measures to ensure that is the case.”
The NSW Government is working with local councils to see how they can support hospital staff during this period, whether that be by removing timed parking around hospitals or exercising discretion with parking fines.
“I would like to commend local councils who are already assisting by improving car parking for staff around our hospitals,” Mr Hazzard said.
Health Services Union Secretary Gerard Hayes said these changes will go a long way to ensure our health workers are well supported during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“This is a stressful time for our hospital staff, who are doing vital work to keep the community safe, and these measures announced by the NSW Government will ensure they are supported during this health crisis,” Mr Hayes said.
The Ministry of Health is negotiating with private car park operators at NSW public hospitals to ensure staff are able to access these car parks at no cost to their employee.
The NSW Government previously announced a $2.3 billion stimulus package in relation to COVID-19, including $700 million for NSW Health to significantly increase capacity in NSW public hospitals, particularly within ICUs.
In addition, the NSW Government has also announced $100 million to support the response to COVID-19 including free accommodation for NSW public hospital healthcare workers.

Police have charged four people under the Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) and issued 58 COVID-19 related Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) since the last update.
Charges:

• About 6.45pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Police Transport Command spoke to a 21-year-old Penrith man on Eddy Avenue, Haymarket, who had no reasonable excuse to be in the area. Checks revealed he had been warned on two occasions in the last week. He was issued a $1000 PIN and moved on. About 8.30pm, officers from Sydney City Police Area Command attended a hotel on George Street, Sydney, following reports of a domestic violence incident. Police spoke with the 21-year-old man and a 17-year-old girl, with checks revealing the previous incident and that man was not to be at the location. He was taken to Day Street Police Station, where his PIN was rescinded, and he was charged with not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He was granted bail at court yesterday and is next due to appear at Penrith Local Court on Wednesday 3 June 2020.

• Officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command were stopped at traffic lights at the intersection of Mona Vale and Telegraph Roads, St Ives, when they observed a Corolla travel at speed through the intersection as the lights turned from yellow to red. Police activated their lights and followed the vehicle before it pulled over on Cowan Street, where they spoke to the 25-year-old male driver. Checks revealed the man was disqualified from driving and had previously been charged for driving during the disqualification period, and the car he was driving was listed as stolen. A subsequent roadside drug test allegedly returned a positive result and after being arrested and taken to Hornsby Police Station, a secondary test returned a positive result for methylamphetamine, cocaine and cannabis. The Greenacre man was charged with not stop at stop line at yellow light, exceed speed more than 20km/h-estimated, drive motor vehicle during disqualification period, take and drive conveyance without consent of owner, drive vehicle, illicit drug present in blood and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Monday 13 April 2020).

• Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command were patrolling Elizabeth Street, Surry Hills, about 3pm (Sunday 12 April 2020), when they located a man asleep on the footpath. Checks revealed the 49-year-old man was in breach of his bail and during a subsequent search, police located six alprazolam tablets, which were not prescribed to him. The Bankstown man, who had previously been warned under the Public Health Act told police he was out visiting friends. He was taken to Surry Hills Police Station, where he was charged with possess prohibited drug and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Monday 13 April 2020).

• About 3.45pm (Sunday 12 April 2020), officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command had arrested a man during a police operation outside a home on the Great Western Highway, Mt Victoria, when another man arrived at the property and started filming on his phone. The man moved very close to the officers – well inside social distancing requirements – before trying to go inside the home. Police directed the man to move away and film from the footpath, but he stated he was a sovereign citizen and it was illegal to give him directions. After an officer attempted to physically move the man away, he allegedly resisted and wrestled with the officer until he was eventually arrested. The 55-year-old man was taken to resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty, refuse/fail to comply with direction under Part 14, and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Monday 13 April 2020).

PINs of note include:

• Just before 10pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Parramatta Police Area Command attended a serviced apartment complex on Church Street, Parramatta, following reports of noise complaints from hotel staff. Police found six people inside the apartment, who allegedly told officers they were there to drink alcohol. Four people – including two men, aged 32 and 37, and two women, aged 25 and 29 – were each issued $1000 PINs.

• In a separate incident, officers returned to the Parramatta serviced apartment complex, following further noise complaints, about 12.30am (Sunday 12 April 2020). On arrival, police found seven people inside one of the apartments, when the hotel only had knowledge of two people. Police found smoke pipes inside and will allege the smoke alarms had been removed. A 25-year-old woman had also attended as an adult entertainer. Four people – including two men, aged 19 and 22, and two women, aged 20 and 30 – were each issued $1000 PINs.

• About 2.30am (Sunday 12 April 2020), officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol detected an Audi A6 allegedly speeding on Parramatta Road, Homebush West. When the car allegedly failed to stop, a pursuit commenced. After a short time, the vehicle stopped on Loftus Crescent, Homebush, before allegedly reversing and ramming the marked police vehicle. The Audi allegedly rammed the police car for a second time, causing damage, before driving away. Police followed the vehicle for a short time before terminating the pursuit. A short time later, the Audi crashed into the back of a Toyota Camry at the intersection of Plaza and Parramatta roads. The passenger of the Camry suffered head and facial injuries; all other occupants of the vehicles received minor injuries. The Audi driver, a 22-year-old man, was arrested and taken to hospital for mandatory testing. He was then taken to Auburn Police Station, where he was charged with a number of offences, including: police pursuit – not stop – drive dangerously, motor vehicle exceed speed of 20km/h, dangerous driving occasioning grievous bodily harm, negligent driving , cause bodily harm by misconduct, owner not disclose identity of driver/passenger, and not give particulars to police. He was also issued $1000 PIN. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Burwood Local Court on Thursday 4 June 2020.

• Officers from South Coast Highway Patrol stopped a vehicle on the Princess Highway, Lake Tabourie, about 5pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), for the purpose of a random breath test. The driver, a 38-year-old woman from Ulladulla, allegedly told police she travelled to Batemans Bay on Thursday (9 April 2020) for the Easter break. She was issued a $1000 PIN for non-essential travel.

• About 2.30pm (Sunday 12 April 2020), officers from St George Police Area Command attended a unit on Gertrude Street, Wolli Creek, following a noise complaint. On arrival, police spoke to the occupant, a 31-year-old woman, who allegedly claimed she was “having a party with friends.” Four people – including three men, aged 22, 31 and 34, and a 32-year-old woman – were all issued $1000 PINs.

• About 8.50pm (Sunday 12 April 2020), officers from Blacktown Police Area Command were patrolling on Campbell Street, Blacktown when they noticed two men leaving a carpark. The men, aged 20 and 22, told police they had met with friends and that they had previously been warned by police in relation to social gatherings. They were both issued a $1000 PIN.

• A 48-year-old Canley Vale man has been issued with a $1000 PIN by officers from Leichhardt Police Area Command for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after he attempted to get on a fully marked police motorcycle parked at the intersection of Glebe Point Road and the Great Western Highway, about 8.20am last Friday (10 April 2020).

• A 23-year-old Wodonga man has been issued with a $1000 PIN after officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command stopped a motorcycle at Glenroy, north west of Albury, on Saturday (11 April 2020). The man, who was riding an unregistered and uninsured motorcycle, admitted to travelling across the border from his home in Victoria to visit friends in New South Wales.

• About 9.30pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Port Stephens-Hunter District were conducting proactive patrols and spoke to two men – aged 19 and 25 – in the carpark of a sports field at Thornton. Inquiries revealed the men had attended the location to smoke cannabis, which was found in their possession. The younger man was also found to be carrying a box knife. The pair were issued with $1000 PINS and cannabis cautions, while the younger man was also issued an infringement for custody of a knife.

• Officers from Sydney City Police Area Command were called to Liverpool Street, Sydney CBD, about 9pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), following reports of a public disturbance. Police spoke to an 18-year-old man who was allegedly harassing members of the public and told police he had been drinking with friends in Chatswood. He was issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 9pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Chifley Police District attended a camp site in the Newnes State Forest, about 15km from Lithgow, after reports of a group of people camping. They group was moved on, as they did not live together and or have a reasonable excuse for being away from home. Four men – aged 18, 19, 32 and 48 – were issued with $1000 PINs.

• About 8.30am (Sunday 12 April), a 22-year-old man and 21-year-old woman were each issued a $1000 PIN after allegedly breaking into the vacant Queen Victoria Hospital, at Wentworth Falls. Officers from Chifley Police District are continuing to investigate.

• Just before midday on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Lake Macquarie Police District stopped an 18-year-old man, who was walking with three friends, on Grenache Street, Bonnells Bay. He had previously received a warning from police last Thursday (9 April 2020), and was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN. The other males were moved on from the area.

• Officers from Oxley Police District stopped a Mazda 3 on Robert Street, South Tamworth, just before 10pm last Wednesday (8 April 2020), for the purpose of a random breath test. The driver, a 17-year-old girl, returned a negative result. The passengers – two men, aged 21 and 30 – had previously been issued warnings under the Public Health Act. They were both subsequently issued $1000 PINs.

• About 2.45pm last Thursday (9 April 2020), officers from Richmond Police District were patrolling when the observed two occupants in a Nissan X-Trail at the end of Burns Point Ferry Road, West Ballina, drinking alcohol. The 38-year-old man and 61-year-old woman, both from Byron Bay, were issued a $1000 PIN for non-essential travel.

• Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District stopped a vehicle on Bent Street, Yamba, about 8.20pm (Sunday 12 April 2020). When speaking to the driver, a 35-year-old man, police will allege he changed his story for travelling several times and was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 3.10am (Sunday 12 April 2020), officers from South Sydney Police Area Command stopped a Ford Utility at the intersection of Wilson Street and the Princes Highway at Newtown, after the car allegedly drove through a red light. Officers issued the male driver and female passenger – both aged 20 – with $1000 PINs after they admitted they wanted to get away from their family for the night. The driver was also issued with a traffic infringement.

• About 11.50pm on Saturday (11 April 2020), officers from Camden Police Area Command were conducting proactive patrols on Main Street, Mt Annan, when they attempted to speak with the occupants of a vehicle parked outside a shopping centre. When police approached the vehicle, the car was driven from the scene before stopping at a nearby service station. The driver, a 24-year-old woman, and her passenger, a 21-year-old woman, were issued with $1000 PINs for failing to comply with a Public Health Order. The driver was also issued with a traffic infringement after checks confirmed her licence is currently disqualified.

Since 17 March 2020, police have issued 57 Court Attendance Notices, and 464 PINs for breaches of the Public Health Act.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.
 

Police have charged five people under the Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) and issued 111 COVID-19 related Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) since the last update.
Charges:

• Just after midnight (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Tuggerah Lakes Police District were patrolling Crangan Bay, when they stopped a vehicle on Kanangra Road. Police spoke with the 18-year-old male driver and an 18-year-old male passenger, who advised they had been out fishing at Gwandalan. Checks revealed the driver was unlicensed, and the vehicle had been grounded with a red defect label on 11 March, which had since been peeled off the windscreen. The driver was taken to Wyong Police Station and charged with never licensed person drive vehicle on road, use vehicle in contravention of major defect notice, deface or remove defective vehicle label when not authorised, and fail to comply requirement public health order – COVID-19. He was granted bail and is due to appear at Wyong Local Court on Monday 22 June 2020. His passenger received a warning under the Public Health Act.

• Officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command stopped a vehicle on the M2 at Carlingford about 12.25am (Saturday 11 April 2020), and spoke with the 23-year-old female driver and a male passenger. When asked to provide her licence, the woman stated she had lost her handbag before provided a false name. Officers observed the woman’s handbag sitting on the centre console, and checks revealed she was disqualified from driving. During a search of the vehicle and handbag, police located items of clothing believed to be stolen, cannabis and ice. The woman also underwent a roadside drug test, which returned a positive result. She was taken to The Hills Police Station and charged with drive whilst disqualified, driver state false name or home address, two counts of possess prohibited drug, goods in custody, and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. She was refused bail and is next due to appear at Parramatta Local Court on Wednesday (15 April 2020).

• About 4.40am (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Lake Macquarie Police District attended a commercial property on Freemans Drive, Cooranbong, and located a 29-year-old man allegedly stealing pavers. Checks revealed the man was unlicensed, his vehicle was not registered, and the trailer had an unknown registration plate affixed. During a search of the vehicle, police located prescription drugs and a folding knife. The man, who claimed he was unaware of COVID-19 restrictions, was unable to provide a reasonable excuse for leaving his home. He was taken to Toronto Police Station and charged with larceny, trespassing, possess prescribed restricted substance, custody of knife in public place, drive while licence cancelled, use unregistered registrable Class A motor vehicle on road, use class A vehicle displaying misleading etc number-plate, and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He was granted strict conditional bail and is due to appear at Toronto Local Court on Tuesday 2 June 2020.

• About 12.15pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Sydney City Police Area responded to reports a food delivery rider’s bicycle had been stolen from George Street, Sydney. Police tracked the bike on CCTV and officers from Police Transport Command stopped a 14-year-old boy with the bike at Central Railway Station a short time later. During the arrest, the boy allegedly resisted and assaulted the officer. No injuries were reported. The boy, who did not have a reasonable excuse to be away from his Colyton home, was taken to Day Street Police Station. He was charged with steal from person, assault police, resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. The boy has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Children’s Court today (Sunday 12 April 2020).

• Officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command attended a home on Leichhardt Street, Katoomba, about 4.30pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), following reports a man had been assaulted while stopping an unknown woman from stealing items from his car. Police arrived and arrested a 32-year-old woman, who was allegedly in possession of the man’s dash cam and mouthguard. The man had suffered scratches to his face but did not require treatment. The woman was taken to Katoomba Police Station and charged with trespass, enter vehicle without consent of owner, larceny, common assault, assault occasioning actual bodily harm, and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. She has been refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Sunday 12 April 2020).

PINs include:

• A $5000 PIN will be issued to a 47-year-old woman by officers from Police Transport Command at Newcastle last night. About 9pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), the woman was wandering across Hunter Street, and reportedly mooning the light rail. Concerned for her welfare, police requested assistance from NSW Ambulance paramedics, who arrived a short time later. While they were attempting to load her onto the gurney, the woman spat at a female paramedic on two occasions. The woman was taken to hospital for assessment but will later be issued with the PIN.

• Police from Kuring Gai Police Area Command issued PINs to four people after they were seen travelling in a car along the Pacific Highway at Turramurra about 4am on Saturday 4 April 2020. Officers spoke to the group at a service station and they admitted to attending a party with friends at Waterloo and were travelling back to the Central Coast. Following inquiries, the 45-year-old man and three women aged 40, 34 and 39 were each issued $1000 PINs.

• A 43-year-old woman and a 58-year-old man from Mascot have been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Blue Mountains PAC for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after they were found at Narrow Neck Road, Katoomba, about 11.15am on Wednesday (8 April 2020).

• At 1.45pm on Thursday 9 April 2020, officers attached to South Coast Police District were patrolling Surf Beach, when they stopped a man and woman on Cook Street. Police were not provided a reasonable reason for them to be out of the home and searched them, with police allegedly locating cannabis on the 38-year-old woman. She was issued a Field Court Attendance Notice to appear at Batemans Bay Local Court on Monday 13 July 2020. Both the woman and man, aged 42, had been warned on Thursday 2 April 2020 by Batemans Bay police in relation to the Public Health Act. They were issued PINs for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7 – COVID 19.

• About 9.30pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Liverpool City Police Area Command observed a 46-year-old man and a 55-year-old woman standing outside a vehicle on Lyell Place, Cartwright. Police spoke with the pair and the four occupants of the vehicle – three men, aged 25, 41, and 43, and a 36-year-old woman. The group claimed to be “chilling out’”. Following a search of the group and the vehicle, police seized heroin, ice, and drug paraphernalia. The 41-year-old man and the 46-year-old man were issued Court Attendance Notices for drug offences, and all six were issued with $1000 PINs before being moved on.

• Two men, both aged 32, from Homebush and Rhodes, have been issued with PINs by officers attached to Blue Mountains Police Area Command for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after they were found at Echo Point Road at Katoomba about 9.50pm on Thursday (9 April 2020).

• About 11.10pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle on Lake Road, Port Macquarie, and spoke with the occupants – a 23-year-old man and two women, aged 17 and 20. After providing the details of her twin sister, the 20-year-old woman attempted to leave the scene and a brief struggle ensued. She was detained and all the occupants were issued a warning under the Public Health Act. The 20-year-old woman was taken home by police but refused to enter the home, instead walking away and giving the officers an obscene hand gesture and stating she was going to a friend’s house and to leave the fine in the mailbox. She was subsequently issued with a $1000 PIN.

• About 7.30pm on Thursday 2 April 2020, officers from Inner West Police Area Command stopped and spoke with a 45-year-old Glebe man after a group was seen congregating on King Street at Newtown. The man was issued a move-on direction. On Friday (10 April 2020), officers saw the man twice congregating with a group. The man ignored police directions to move-on and was subsequently arrested and taken to Newtown Police Station where he issued a PIN for failing to comply with a public health order.

• Police from Mid North Coast Police District spoke with two men, both aged 32, on Crescent Head Road at Crescent Head just before midnight on Friday (10 April 2020). The men told police they had been catching up with friends. They were subsequently issued PINs for not comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID 19.

• In the early hours of Friday (10 April 2020), officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District attended a home on Bligh Street, South Grafton, following reports of a loud party. On arrival, the attendees scattered and after reminding the occupants of the requirements under the Public Health Act, police issued a noise abatement direction. About 8.30am, police spoke to three men – two of which are the occupants of the Bligh Street home – who were drinking together on the corner of Bligh and Cambridge Streets. The men, aged 18, 25 and 27, were reminded they were breaching the Ministerial Directions, and after the older man began swearing and 25-year-old man refused to go home, they were issued with a $500 fine for offensive language and a $1100 fine for continuing intoxication in a public place respectively. All three men were issued with $1000 PINs and sent home.

• About 3.30am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from South Coast Police District were called to a hotel on Kinghorne Street, Nowra, following reports of a disturbance between a group of people, which had spilled out into the car park. On arrival, police spoke with four men – aged 20, 21, and two aged 23, and a 21-year-old woman – who denied there had been a fight. Checks revealed one of the men had booked the room under the guise of ‘work’ but had invited the other four people over to drink. All five people were issued $1000 PINs.

• About 3.40am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command responded to reports of a single vehicle crash on the Great Western Highway, Warrimoo. Police were told the vehicle had veered off the road, mounted a concrete barrier and drove into the scrub, flipping onto its side. Neither the 22-year-old male driver or the 20-year-old female passenger were injured during the crash. After speaking with the pair, police established that they had taken a drive from their south-west Sydney homes to see the Three Sisters at Katoomba. The pair were issued with $1000 PINs.

• On Friday 10 April 2020, officers attached to Monaro Police District were patrolling the Kosciuszko National Park Thredbo when they were alerted to two men driving a black Holden Astra who were seeking accommodation. The same men are believed to have been spoken to by police twice the day before (Thursday 9 April 2020) on the Snowy Mountains Highway, Pine Valley, and advised to drive direct to Melbourne, as they indicated they were flying out of Australia to their home country, Taiwan. The 37-year-old driver was issued traffic infringement notice for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19.

• A 15-year-old girl was issued a PIN by officers from Kuring Gai PAC for failing to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID 19, after she was caught in a vehicle with a man not related to her about 1.30pm on Friday (10 April 2020) at Wahroonga. The girl was unable to provide police with a reasonable excuse for being out of her home.

• About 3pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Richmond Police District were patrolling Lennox Head, when they observed a vehicle parked at Lake Ainsworth. After speaking with the occupants – a man and woman, both aged 29 – it was established they were sightseeing in the area after travelling some 120km from their home at Parkwood, Queensland. The pair was issued with $1000 infringements and directed to go home.

• Officers from Police Transport Command were patrolling Central Railway Station about 3.30pm on Friday (10 April 2020), when they noticed a man dancing on Eddy Avenue. The 53-year-old Lalor Park man provided various reasons for being in the area, however, none of them were reasonable under the Public Health Act, and he was issued a warning and move-on direction. When police located the man at the same location about 6.30pm, he said he didn’t want to go home. He was issued with a $1000 PIN and directed to go home.

• About 7pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command were called to an apartment block on Glenview Street, Paddington, following reports of an unknown man in the common laundry area. While police were speaking with the 47-year-old man, he dropped a syringe. During a search of the man, police located the drug ‘ice’ and a health care card in someone else’s name. He was issued with a Court Attendance Notice for goods in custody and possess prohibited drug. The Waterloo man was also issued a $1000 PIN and moved on.

• About 7.25pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Fairfield City Police Area Command located a group of men in a park on St Johns Road, Canley Heights. After speaking with the five men – aged 19, 21 and three aged 20, police identified they did not have a reasonable excuse for being out. Following further inquiries, each of the men was issued with a $1000 PIN and given a move-on direction.

• Just before 8pm on Friday (10 April 2020), officers attached to Central North Police District stopped a Holden Rodeo utility on Nyngan-Mundaroo Road, 13km north of Nyngan, for a random breath test which returned a negative result. Upon speaking with the driver and two occupants – aged 52, 23 and 13 – police established their reason for travel was considered non-essential and issued them all with a warning to return to their home address in Griffith. About 2.10pm yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020), the same vehicle was located at a truck stop on the Mitchell Highway at North Bourke. The same three males were with the vehicle and had set up a swag on the side of the road. As the trio ignored Ministerial Directions, the two adults were issued $1000 PINs.

• About 8.20pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Lake Macquarie Police District attended Rocky Point Road, Eraring, following reports of issues relating to social distancing of anglers. Police spoke with up to 30 people at the location, many of which left the area a short time later. One man, aged 34, was identified as residing at Punchbowl and was advised his travel to the area was in contravention of the Ministerial Direction in relation to essential travel. The man argued with officers and insisted he would keep fishing and not return home. He was subsequently issued with $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Fairfield City Police Area Command attended a home on Polding Street, Fairfield Heights, about 8.45pm (Friday 10 April 2020), following reports of a physical altercation. On arrival, police were told there was no disturbance, but identified a 19-year-old woman at the premises was in breach of COVID-19 directions. She was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN and sent home.

• Officers from Liverpool City Police Area Command were patrolling at Prestons, when they stopped a vehicle on Lyn Parade just before 9pm (Friday 10 April 2020). Police spoke with the occupants – three men, aged 34, 35 and 39, and a 39-year-old woman – who were unable to provide a reasonable excuse for their travels together. Police then searched the group and after they sighted the drug ‘ice’ in the 34-year-old man’s underwear, he allegedly ran from the officers and consumed the drugs. He was detained a short time later and assessed by NSW Ambulance paramedics. Police also located cash on the man, which is believed to have been illegally obtained. Checks also revealed he had previously been issued with an official warning under the Public Health Act, so he will be issued with a Court Attendance Notice for breach of Ministerial Direction, resist officer in the execution of duty, and goods in custody. The other three people will be issued with $1000 PINs.

• About 9pm on Friday (10 April 2020), officers attached to Murray River Police District attended a home on Tallow Street, Moulamein, and issued a 36-year-old woman with an infringement after earlier speaking to her about as driving complaint and warning her about being outside her home without a reasonable excuse at Carne Street.

• A 40-year-old woman was issued a PIN for breaching the Ministerial directions after officers attached to Newcastle City Police District observed her acting suspiciously on Hugh Street in Merewether about 9.15pm on Friday (10 April 2020). The woman could not provide a lawful excuse for why she was out and issued the infringement for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9- COVID-19.

• A 25-year-old Auburn woman and a 21-year-old Guildford man has been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Blue Mountains PAC for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after she was found at Hawkesbury Lookout about 9.25pm on Friday (10 April 2020), without reasonable excuse.

• Officers attached to Parramatta Police Area Command stopped a vehicle on Church Street, North Parramatta, about 10pm on Friday (10 April 2020) for a random breath test and spoke to the 23-year-old driver. The man was out of home without a reasonable excuse and the car was searched, with police allegedly locating cannabis. The man was cautioned and also issued a PIN for fail to comply with requirement of public health – COVID-19.

• Three men, one 24-year-old and two aged 20, were issued PINs for fail to comply with noticed direction when they were stopped by officers attached to Murray River Police District on Hovell Street, South Albury about 11pm (Friday 10 April 2020).

• Police from Coffs/Clarence Police District stopped a vehicle on the Macleay Valley Way at Bellimbopinni about 11pm on Friday (10 April 2020). Officers spoke to the driver, a 55-year-old man, and established he didn’t have a reasonable excuse to have left the house. The man told officers he was going to visit family and wasn’t deterred by the ministerial directions. He was issued a PIN for not comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID 19.

• Police from Lake Macquarie Police District issued a PIN to a 24-year-old man after he was caught drinking at a relative’s house in Toronto about 11.30pm on Friday (10 April 2020). The man was located inside a small room with his brother consuming alcohol. He was issued a PIN for not comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID 19.

• About 12.50am on Saturday 11 April 2020, police from Central West Police District stopped a Holden Astra on Callaghan Street in Parkes after the vehicle was seen making a u-turn and driving away from the police car. Officers spoke with the driver, a 34-year-old man, who admitted he had been visiting friends. He was issued a PIN for failing to comply with a noticed direction.

• A man and woman, both aged 18 from Pitt Town, have been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Blue Mountains Police Area Command for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after they were found at Hawkesbury Heights Lookout, about 1am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020).

• A 16-year-old boy from Tomerong, a 17-year-old boy from Nowra, a 25-year-old man from South Nowra, a 17-year-old boy from Cambewarra, an 18-year-old man from Sanctuary Point, has been issued with a $1000 PIN after being pulled over on the Princes Highway at Falls Creek, just after 1am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020) by officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command. Police allege all five had disregarded the Ministerial Direction by going camping together.

• A 29-year-old Kogarah man from has been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Eastern Suburbs Police Area Command for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after he was found on Gap Road at Watsons Bay about 1.50am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020).

• A 23-year-old Killara woman from has been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Eastern Suburbs PAC for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after she was stopped by police on St Marks Road at Darling Point, about 2.15am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). The woman failed a roadside breath test and was arrested and taken to Waverley police Station where she returned a BAS of 0.070. She was issued with a Field Court Attendance Notice to appear before Downing Centre Local Court on Friday 19 June 2020.

• A 25-year-old man was stopped and searched by police around 2.40am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020) on Tink Avenue, Dubbo. The man was allegedly found to be in possession of a knife, housebreaking implements and suspected stolen items. He could also not provide police with a reasonable excuse for breaching the current Ministerial directions and issued a PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19 – Individual. The man was also charged with goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, Possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit, Possess housebreaking implements, and Custody of knife in public place. He was refused bail to appear at Dubbo Local Court on Tuesday 14 April 2020.

• Officers from Liverpool Police Area Command spoke with a 38-year-old man about 2.45pm yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). The man told police he was going to his mothers’ place to get cigarettes and claims he was unaware of the public health restrictions. Following inquiries, police determined the man had already been given a warning and a subsequent infringement two weeks prior. He was issued another PIN for failing to comply with a noticed direction.

• A 34-year-old man from Cronulla has been issued with a PIN by police from Blue Mountains Police Area Command for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after he was found at Hawkesbury Heights Lookout about 2.55am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). He allegedly told police he was unable to sleep and had driven to the lookout.

• A 17-year-old woman, an 18-year-old man and a 19-year-old man, all from St Clair, an 18-year-old woman from Colyton and a 16-year-old boy from Ropes Crossing have been issued with PINs by officers attached to Blue Mountains for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after they were found at Hawkesbury Heights Lookout about shortly before 6am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). Police allege they said they wanted to see the sunrise.

• About 7.45am (Saturday 11 April 2020), a woman was stopped at Albion Street, Surry Hills, and was issued a fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19. She could not give a reasonable excuse for being out of her home in Toongabbie and had been issued her first and final warnings the day before (Friday 10 April 2020) when she was spoken to by police in Glebe and Surry Hills while riding her bicycle.

• A 31-year-old man from Mt Pritchard has been issued with a PIN by Liverpool City PAC for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after he was found on Holt Street, Ashcroft, shortly before 8am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). Police seized drug paraphernalia during a search of the man. A 30-year-old man with him was issued with a warning.

• Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District attended the remote village of Sandon yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020), following reports holidaymakers had made their way to the area for Easter. Police spoke with a 53-year-old man and his 51-year-old wife, who said they had been in the area for more than two weeks. Following inquiries, officers established they had only arrived two days prior. The couple was issued with $1000 PINs and directed to return to the Lennox Head property. Another couple and their two children were also spoken to at another home and given warnings before being directed to return to their Petersham home.

• About 7.50am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers attached to St George Police Area Command attended a golf club in Wolli Creek after reports of a person acting aggressively. After failing to comply with the move on direction, the 46-year-old man was issued a $1000 PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19.

• Officers from Kings Cross Police Area Command issued a PIN to a 42-year-old Eastwood man after he was observed congregating with a group on Darlinghurst Road at Potts Point about 10.30am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). Officers spoke with the man and directed he move on as he was in breach of the public health orders. About an hour later the man was again spotted by police loitering on Springfield Avenue. Police again spoke to the man and issued him a PIN.

• A 32-year-old Lithgow man from has been issued with a PIN by Bankstown PAC for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after he was found at a hotel in Villawood, about 11.15am yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). The man had received a warning the day before but continued to associate with a group of men at the location.

• Just before midday (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Tweed/Byron Police District responded to the concern for welfare of a woman slumped over a steering wheel of a vehicle parked on Johnson Street, Byron Bay. Police assisted the 45-year-old woman from the car, during which, they located ice and drug paraphernalia. During a subsequent search of her handbag, officers located cards under the names of various people, $1850 cash, drug ledgers and a knife. Inquiries revealed the Tabulum woman had also recently travelled to Queensland. She was taken to Byron Bay Police Station and charged with possess prohibited drug, goods in personal custody suspected being stolen, and possess or use a prohibited weapon without permit. She was issued with a $1000 PIN before being granted conditional bail to appear at Byron Bay Local Court on Monday 15 June 2020.

• About 12.35pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers attached to New England Police District spoke with a 24-year-old man inside his vehicle on Brogan Street and Bailey Crescent at Armidale, who did not have a reasonable excuse to be away from his residence in North Tamworth. He was issued a PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19.

• Bankstown Police Area Command officers have issued two men with PINs, and warned another two, after four men were seen sitting in a car eating pizza in Edgar Street, Condell Park, about 1.45pm yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). The men, aged 22 and 26, both from Milperra were issued with PINS for failing to comply with a Public Health Order. The older man was also issued with a PIN for offensive language.

• A 25-year-old Darlinghurst woman from has been issued with a PIN by officers attached to Brisbane Water PD for failing to comply with a Public Health Order after she was found on Copacabana Beach about 1.50pm yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). Police allege she said she was watching her boyfriend who was surfing.

• A man was issued a fine after failing to comply with social distancing laws in Broadmeadow yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). Officers attached to Newcastle Police District spoke with the 24-year-old on Brown Road who could not provide a lawful excuse for travel between Newcastle and Nelson Bay. He was issued a PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9 – COVID-19 – Individual.

• Officers attached to New England Police District gave a warning to a woman driving on the New England Highway, Tenterfield, about 2.40pm yesterday (Saturday 11 April 2020). She was advised by police to return home to Goonellebah, and not visit friends in Armidale. Around 3.25pm, the 47-year-old woman was stopped again issued a PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9- COVID-19.

• About 3pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers attached to New England Police District, spoke with a 34-year-old woman for breaching the Public Health Act. The woman was first spoken to by police at 1.30am on Wednesday 1 April 2020 on Adelaide Street, Moree, for a random breath test where she was issued an infringement for driving from Coonamble to Moree without a reasonable excuse. On Friday 10 April 2020, officers again observed her red Mazda 6 Sedan travelling on Jones Street, Moree. The woman could not provide a reasonable excuse for driving, resulting in officers attended a home on Birrawee Place in Moree to issue a second PIN for fail to comply with noticed direction in relation to section 7/8/9- COVID-19

• Officers from Eastern Beaches Police Area Command observed four people sitting at a park bench at Maroubra Junction about 3.30pm (Saturday 11 April 2020). Checks revealed each member of the group – three men aged 33, 45 and 55, and a 32-year-old woman – had previously been warned about Ministerial Directions. The group was advised they would each receive a $1000 PIN and moved on from the area.

• About 2.15pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), patrolling officers from Brisbane Water Police District gave a move on direction to a man and woman sitting on a bench at Avoca Beach. A short time later, police returned and noticed the pair still sitting in the same spot, giving a second direction to leave the area. The woman began to walk off, before the man verbally abused the officers. Checks revealed the 18-year-old man was from Willoughby and could not provide a reasonable excuse for travelling to Avoca Beach. He was issued with a $1000 PIN and instructed to return home.

• Officers from Tweed/Byron Police District attended a holiday apartment on Lawson Street, Byron Bay, about 2.30pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), after reports of parties being held at the location. Police spoke with a 33-year-old man, who told them he booked the room to self-isolate but had invited people over to visit. The other two people – a 34-year-old man and a 24-year-old woman – had travelled from Clunes for the gathering. All three were issued $1000 PINs, while inquiries are continuing into the accommodation provider.

• Just before 4pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from South Sydney Police Area Command stopped and spoke to a 46-year-old man on Lee Street, Chippendale. After the man told police he was out to meet a mate, officers conducted checks, which revealed the man had previously been warned under the Public Health Act, he was issued a $1000 PIN and moved on.

• Officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District stopped a white Subaru Liberty vehicle on Bosun Lane, Port Macquarie, about 3.50pm (Saturday 11 April 2020) and spoke to the driver, a 26-year-old man, and two passengers, a 23-year-old man and 19-year-old woman who could not provide a reasonable excuse for being out of the house. The 26-year-old and 19-year-old had been given warnings the night prior (Friday 10 April 2020) for breaching COVID-19 restrictions. They were both issued a PIN for not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. The 23-year-old passenger was issued a warning. Police also conducted a vehicle search where they located methylamphetamine allegedly inside a handbag in the boot of the car. The 19-year-old woman was issued a Future Court Attendance Notice for possess prohibited drug to appear at Port Macquarie Local Court on Wednesday 8 July 2020. The 26-year-old man was also issued an infringement for not provide drivers licence and disobey one-way direction.

• About 4pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Mid North Coast Police District stopped a vehicle on Bosun Lane, Port Macquarie, and spoke with the 26-year-old male driver and 19-year-old female passenger. Checks revealed the pair had been stopped the day before and warned about Ministerial Directions after they said they were out “killing time”. During a search of the vehicle, police seized ice. The woman was issued a Court Attendance Notice for possess prohibited drug before the pair received $1000 PINs.

• Officers from Tweed/Byron Police District stopped a vehicle on Burringbar St, Mullumbimby, about 4pm, and spoke to the four occupants – a 16-year-old boy, two 17-year-old girls, and the 18-year-old male driver. The P-plate driver returned a positive roadside breath test and received a fine for special-range drink driving. During a search of the vehicle, police located cannabis and issued cannabis cautions to the man and one of the 17-year-old girls. The group were not able to provide a reasonable excuse for being out, and checks revealed three of the four had previously been given warnings for the same. They were issued $1000 PINs, while the 17-year-old girl was given a warning under the Public Health Act.

• Just after 5pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from South Coast Police District stopped a vehicle on Monaro Street, Merimbula, and spoke with the 22-year-old male driver. The man told police he had been helping a friend cut firewood – which was confirmed – except it had been delivered to Bega North. The man then provided several other versions, none of which were deemed as reasonable under the Public Health Act. He was issued with a $1000 PIN and directed to return to his Bega home.

• About 6pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Riverina Police District were patrolling at Junee, when they stopped a vehicle on Harold Street. On speaking with the occupants – two men, aged 23 and 37, and a 32-year-old woman – police could smell cannabis and commenced searches of the group and the vehicle. During the searches, police seized ice, cannabis, a total of $4455 cash, a diary containing a drug price list, and four knives. The woman was issued a Court Attendance Notice for custody of knife in public place, deal with property proceeds of crime, two counts of possess prohibited drug, and supply prohibited drug. She is due to appear at Junee Local Court on Friday 10 July 2020. The older man will be issued with a Court Attendance Notice for goods in custody and custody of knife in public place. All three were issued with $1000 PINs and moved-on.

• Just after 7pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), police attached to Operation Coronavirus were made aware of people staying at a hotel on Jamieson Street, Sydney, for the purpose of a party. Officers observed two men and a woman leaving the hotel, with one of the men and the woman returning a short time later. They were spoken to by police before the man was told not to invite people over and was allowed to return to his room, while the woman was given a move-on direction. Shortly after, the other man returned and was subject to a search with police locating ice in his sock. The 33-year-old man was issued a $1000 PIN under the Public Health Act and a Court Attendance Notice for drug possession. He is due to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday 13 May 2020.

• About 7.30pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District conducting proactive checks stopped at a house on Bent Street, South Grafton. A 30-year-old man was spoken to, who stated he was at the house visiting friends. He became verbally abusive when police notified him that he was in breach of Ministerial Directions and was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Sydney City Police Area Command were called to Liverpool Street, Sydney, about 9.10pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), after reports of an intoxicated man acting aggressively. Police spoke to an 18-year-old man, who stated he had been drinking with friends in Chatswood and travelled to Sydney to continue. He was issued a $1000 PIN for failing to comply with noticed direction (COVID-19).

• About 10pm (Saturday 11 April 2020), officers from South Coast Police District stopped to assist a man who was standing on the roadway on the Princes Highway near Shore Street, Moruya. When asked if he was okay, the 40-year-old man began acting aggressively toward the officers and swearing at police before a wrestle ensued. The man was arrested a short time later and taken to Batemans Bay Police Station. He was issued with a $1000 PIN before being charged with resist officer in execution of duty and use offensive language in/near public place/school. He is due to appear at Batemans Bay Local Court on Friday 26 June 2020.

Since 17 March 2020, police have issued 53 Court Attendance Notices, and 406 PINs for breaches of the Public Health Act.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

Police have charged 10 people under the Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) and issued 50 COVID-19 related Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) since the last update.
Charges:

• Officers from Liverpool City Police Area Command responded to a home at Miller about 1.15pm (Friday 10 April 2020), following reports of a domestic disturbance. On arrival, police spoke with an 18-year-old man, who was allegedly breaching an ADVO. While the man claimed to have no knowledge of COVID-19, he was unable to provide a reasonable excuse for being away from his home. The Mt Druitt man was arrested and taken to Liverpool Police Station, where he was charged with domestic violence-related offences and failing to comply with the Public Health Direction (7, 8, 9 – COVID-19).

• About 7.50am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers attached to Traffic and Highway Patrol detected a silver Holden Commodore travelling 74km/h in a 60km/h zone on the Pacific Highway, Killara. Officers stopped the vehicle on Robert Street, and spoke with the driver, a 24-year-old man. The Learner driver got out of his car; however, he was unable to produce his licence and was not displaying L-plates. After the man would not confirm his residential address and failed to remain in his vehicle, they attempted to arrest him. During the arrest, he allegedly attempted to run away before he was arrested by officers. He was taken to Gordon Police Station and charged with resist officer in execution of duty, not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19, learner not accompanied by driver/police officer/tester, exceed speed, not display L-plates and driver motor vehicle not carry licence. The man was issued with a Court Attendance Notice to appear at Hornsby Local Court on Thursday 9 July 2020.

• About 1.40am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers attached to Wollongong Police Area Command received reports of a disturbance at an unoccupied house on New Dapto Road, Wollongong. Police attended and found two men in the roof cavity of the bungalow, who allegedly threw multiple items at officers, hitting a senior constable on the leg. Two men – aged 29 and 45 – were arrested and taken to Wollongong Police Station. The older man was charged with aggravated break and enter, enter enclosed land without lawful excuse and resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty. The younger man was charged with aggravated break and enter, enter enclosed land without lawful excuse and resist or hinder police officer in the execution of duty, and not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19. They were both refused bail to appear at Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday 14 April 2020.

• About 6.45pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers attached to Sydney City Police Area Command were conducting patrols in Pyrmont when they stopped a white Honda Civic on Allen Street. Police spoke to the driver, a 34-year-old man, and his passenger, a 31-year-old man, before searching the car. During the search, police seized 1.4kg of cannabis, cash and items consistent with drug distribution. Neither man could provide a reasonable excuse for not being home. They were taken to Day Street Police Station, where both men were charged with deal with the proceeds of crime, not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19 and supply cannabis. They were both refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Saturday 11 April 2020).

• About 10.10am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers attached to Sydney City Police Area Command attended a hotel on the Princes Highway, St Peters, to arrest a 39-year-old for breaching bail conditions. Police arrested the man and a 29-year-old woman who was with him. Following a search of the man’s room, police seized a bottle containing GBL and cannabis. The pair were taken to Day Street Police Station, where the woman was charged with possess prohibited drug (cannabis), breach of bail and was given a warning for not complying with ministerial directions. She was issued with a court attendance notice to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on Wednesday 22 July 2020. The man complained of flu-like symptoms and was taken to St Vincent’s Hospital for assessment. He refused to undergo a test for COVID-19 and was directed to go into self-isolation for the next 14-days. He was returned to Day Street Police Station where he was charged with breach of bail and not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19. Police will allege the man had received a warning from police for not being home without a reasonable excuse last Saturday (4 April 2020). He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today.

• About 10pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers attached to Tuggerah Lakes Police District attended a home on Bridge Avenue, Chain Valley Bay, following reports of an assault. Police spoke to a 52-year-old woman and attempted to arrest a 49-year-old man. The man ignored police instructions and allegedly struck a senior constable on the arm. Following a short struggle, he was arrested and taken to Tuggerah Lakes Police Station where he was charged with possess prohibited drug, assault officer in execution of duty, resist officer in execution of duty, common assault, and not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19. Police will allege the man headbutted the woman, who was known to him, in her home. He was given conditional bail to appear at Wyong Local Court on Wednesday 20 May 2020.

• About 9.30am (Friday 10 April 2020), police conducted a registration check on a white BMW sedan travelling north on George Street, Sydney, which identified the owner was unlicensed. Following inquiries, police found the vehicle parked nearby and located the man at a unit complex on Thomas Street, Ultimo, where he was arrested. He was taken to Day Street Police Station and charged with drive while licence cancelled, drive motor vehicle not carry licence and not comply with noticed direction section 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He was granted conditional bail to appear at Downing Centre Local Court on Thursday 9 July 2020.

PINs include:

• Officers from Tweed/Byron Police District were called to Terranora Road, Banora Point, just after 10.30pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), following reports of the concern for the welfare of a man wandering around on the road. On arrival, police located the man rambling incoherently in the front yard of a home. Checks revealed the man was in breach of his bail conditions and was allegedly in possession of a leather glove and a staff card in someone else’s name. After being unable to provide a reasonable explanation for being away from his home and having been warned previously, he was issued with a $1000 PIN, before being taken to Tweed Heads Police Station and charged with goods in personal custody suspected being stolen. He has been refused bail and will next appear at Tweed Heads Local Court on Tuesday (14 April 2020).

• About 11.10pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle on Lake Road, Port Macquarie, and spoke with the occupants – a 23-year-old man and two women, aged 17 and 20. After providing the details of her twin sister, the 20-year-old woman attempted to leave the scene and a brief struggle ensued. She was detained and all the occupants were issued a warning under the Public Health Act. The 20-year-old woman was taken home by police but refused to enter the home, instead walking away and giving the officers an obscene hand gesture, stating she was going to a friend’s house and to leave the fine in the mailbox. She was subsequently issued with a $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Blue Mountains Police Area Command were patrolling when they located two men, aged 20 and 21, from Old Guildford and Chester Hill, and a 16-year-old girl from Riverstone, at Hawkesbury Lookout just after 9pm (Friday 10 April 2020). The group was warned about breaching the Ministerial Direction, and after establishing they had travelled from Chester Hill, Guildford and Riverstone to meet at the location, they were each issued a $1000 PIN.

• An 18-year-old Bankstown woman has been issued a $1000 PIN after being seen driving through Katoomba twice between 3.30am and midday yesterday (Friday 10 April 2020), telling police from Blue Mountains Police Area Command that she was visiting her father who lived in the ‘bush’.

• Just after 9pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle on Springdale Road, Wentworthville, and spoke with the driver – a 22-year-old man. He provided no reasonable excuse for being in the area and was subsequently issued with a $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Central North Police District stopped a vehicle and spoke to the occupants – a 22-year-old woman and a 30-year-old man, about 7.30pm(Friday 10 April 2020). The pair stated they were buying cigarettes and were issued a warning under the Public Health Act. Just after 8pm the same day, police stopped and spoke to the pair who were walking on Coral Avenue. They could not provide officers with a reasonable excuse for being out and having ignored their direction to return home, were both issued with $1000 PINs.

• About 10.50am (Friday 10 April 2020), a 30-year-old man attended Albury Police Station and told police he wanted to “hang out”. He was advised to return home due to the current COVID-19 restrictions. A short time later, the man remained outside the station and was given a move on direction. About 11.10am the same day, police spoke to the man for a third time outside the station and during a search, they found a pair of scissors in his jumper. He was issued with a $1000 PIN, having ignored their direction to return home.

• Officers from Surry Hills Police Area Command were patrolling Belvoir Street, Surry Hills, about 10.40am yesterday (Friday 10 April 2020), when they spoke to a 32-year-old woman who was in the middle of the road. Officers issued a move on direction and following checks, it was revealed the woman had been given an official warning for being out of her residence the day before. When asked why she was in Belvoir Street she responded that ‘it’s a free country’ and failed to provide a valid reason. She was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• On Thursday 2 April 2020, officers from Mid North Coast Police District observed people attending and leaving a home on Bay Street, Dunbogan. A 50-year-old resident was issued multiple warnings regarding social gatherings. Between 8.20pm and 9.15pm (Friday 10 April 2020), officers observed three people attend the property separately. The man was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 9pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command observed a Ford Territory on Dunmore Street, Wentworthville, with four occupants. It will be alleged the driver, a 23-year-old man, allegedly attempted to avoid police, before he was stopped and could not provide a reasonable excuse for being in the area. He was issued a $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Central North Police District observed six people gathered at Ritchie Street, Walgett, about 3.30am (Friday 10 April 2020). The group was warned about the Public Health Order and were told to return home immediately. Half an hour later, three members of the group – a 32-year-old woman and two men, aged 32 and 37 – were seen by police again drinking in the street. All three were issued $1000 PINs.

• Officers from Sydney City Police Area Command observed a man seated on a garden bed on Mountain Street, Ultimo, about 4.30pm (Friday 10 April 2020), and spoke with him about the Public Health Order. He told police he was exercising, however, following inquiries no reasonable excuse was identified and he was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• A 24-year-old Kings Langley man has been issued with a $1000 PIN after he ran from police on Springdale Road, Wentworthville, on Thursday (9 April 2020), by officers from Parramatta Highway Patrol.

• Officers from South Sydney Police Area Command spoke to a 30-year-old man at the intersection of Dowling and Lachlan streets, Waterloo, before giving him a move on direction from the area. Later the same day, the man was still at the intersection and subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 7am (Friday 10 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle – towing a trailer with a trail bike – and spoke to the driver, a 27-year-old Victorian man. He told police he had been visiting friends in Wollongong and was driving to Deniliquin to visit family. The man was issued a $1000 PIN for non-essential travel.

• About 12.30am (Thursday 9 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle in Kurnell and spoke to the driver, a 29-year-old man from Eastwood. He provided no reasonable excuse for being in the area and was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN.

• Officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District stopped an 18-year-old man who was walking with two others and holding a case of beer on Cambridge Street, South Grafton, yesterday (Friday 10 April 2020). Police will allege the man had been given a previous warning about the Public Health Act and failed to provide a reasonable excuse for being away from home. He was issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 11.40am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Sydney City Police Area Command received information that a man was holding a pair of scissors on the platform at Wolli Creek Railway Station. Following inquiries, officers located the 37-year-old man at Central Railway Station, and he failed to provide a reasonable excuse for being away from his home. He was issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 2.30am (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Sutherland Shire Police Area command were conducting a proactive patrol in Caringbah when they observed an 82-year-old man driving erratically on the Kingsway. Police stopped the man and will allege he stated he had conducted work the night before, however, he was unable to supply police with a reasonable excuse to why he was in the area several hours later. The man was issued with a $1000 PIN.

• About 1pm (Thursday 2 April 2020), officers from Coffs/Clarence Police District were called to a home on Halls Road, Coffs Harbour, following reports of multiple people at the location who do no reside there. Whilst police were there a man, who was issued a ministerial direction the day before, arrived at the location with no reasonable excuse to be there. He was subsequently issued a $1000 PIN and given a move on direction.

• About 8.30am (Friday 10 April 2020), officers from Riverina Highway Patrol were performing proactive duties on the Sturt Highway, Forest Hill. A check on the vehicle showed it was registered to an address in Smithfield. Following inquires the man claimed he was visiting a friend in Wagga and was issued a $1000 PIN for non-essential travel.

Since 17 March 2020, police have issued 38 Court Attendance Notices, and 295 PINs for breaches of the Public Health Act.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

A large-scale multi-agency operation is underway this morning as the repatriation of thousands of returned travellers in mandatory quarantine at hotels across Sydney begins.
The NSW Minister for Health Brad Hazzard issued the Public Health (COVID-19 Air Transportation Quarantine) Order 2020 under section 7 of the Public Health Act 2010, which directs that on and from Sunday 29 March 2020, a person arriving by aircraft into NSW from a country other than Australia must go directly to a quarantine facility.
The first 1300 passengers to arrive at Sydney International Airport under this order completed their mandatory 14-day quarantine today (Saturday 11 April 2020).
The NSW Police Force-led operation – assisted by NSW Health, the Office of the Sheriff of NSW, Australian Defence Force, and hotel staff – will assist the passengers as they depart their hotels and return home.
All travellers undergo a final health check before departing, which includes observation and assessment for respiratory symptoms and a temperature check.
As with all people in NSW, they will be still be required to adhere to the Public Health (COVID-19 Restrictions on Gathering and Movement) Amendment Order 2020.
Police have been discussing onward travel plans with those in quarantine to ensure departures from hotels are as simple as possible.
Large numbers of the travellers, who are from across NSW, are already departing hotels with assistance of family/friends, taxi/ride-share, or public transport.
Due to the current flight schedules, only some of the interstate travellers are confirmed on flights today to their home states. They will be transported by coach to the airport throughout the day.
The remaining travellers are being assisted with alternate arrangements, as required.
The operation will run each day as returned travellers continue to complete their mandatory quarantines and depart hotels across Sydney CBD.

Police have charged eight people under the Public Health Act 2010 (NSW) and issued 45 COVID-19 related Penalty Infringement Notices (PINs) since the last update.
Charges:

• Just before 10pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), detectives from Fairfield City Police Area Command were travelling to conduct unrelated inquiries when they observed a man in the middle of Railway Parade, Canley Vale. The man asked officers for a lighter before being told to get off the roadway. When police asked why he was away from his home, the 23-year-old man said he was bored. He then allegedly became aggressive and abusive towards the officers, who subsequently got out of their vehicle and attempted to escort him off the road. The man allegedly thrashed around, resisting police. He was taken to Fairfield Police Station and charged with not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19, use offensive language in/near public place/school, resist officer in execution of duty, refuse/fail to comply with direction under Part 14. He was granted strict conditional bail to appear at Liverpool Local Court on Tuesday 30 June 2020.

• About 4pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), an officer from Traffic and Highway Patrol Command attended Lidcombe Railway Station to assist NSW Ambulance paramedics, who were treating an unconscious man. The man’s friend – a 42-year-old man – allegedly shoved the officer as he approached before a struggle ensued. The man was arrested and taken to Auburn Police Station, where he was charged with assault officer in execution of duty, resist officer in execution of duty and not comply with noticed direction re s 7/8/9 – COVID-19. He was refused bail to appear at Parramatta Bail Court today (Friday 10 April 2020).

• Just before 10pm last night, a 33-year-old woman was driving a Holden Commodore on Main Road, Glendale, when it crashed into a traffic light at the intersection of Glendale Drive. It will be alleged the woman then took her three-year-old child out of the car and ran from the scene. Officers from Lake Macquarie Police District found the woman and child a short time later and arrested her. She allegedly failed to provide both a roadside breath-test and a subsequent breath analysis sample at Toronto Police Station. Inquiries revealed the woman’s other two-year-old child had been left unsupervised at home. Both children were placed into the care of a responsible person and a FACS notification was made. The woman was charged with:

– Negligent driving
– Not give particulars
– Refuse or fail to submit to breath test
– Refuse or fail to submit to breath analysis – 2nd offence
– Neglect child or young person in his/her care
– Not comply with noticed direction re: Section 7/8/9
She is due to appear before Toronto Local Court on Tuesday 30 June 2020.
The five other individuals charged have been highlighted in previous media releases.
PINs include:

• Yesterday morning (Thursday 9 April 2020), police were informed of a 55-year-old Elizabeth Bay man who had relocated to a holiday home at Pearl Beach, in contravention of a current ministerial direction. Police attended the home and spoke with the man, and issued him with a $1000 PIN a short time later. He has since returned to Sydney.

• Officers attached to Campbelltown City Police Area Command attended a unit on Chamberlain Street, Campbelltown about 10pm on Wednesday (8 April 2020), following reports of a brawl. On arrival, police found eight people inside the unit, seven of whom did not reside at the address. Following inquiries, police confirmed three men, aged 22, 20 and 19, had received cautions when police were called to the same unit on Thursday 2 April 2020 in response to a noise complaint. They were all issued with PINs for failing to comply with a ministerial direction. Police issued formal warnings to the other four and all were directed to return to their homes.

• Just before 10pm (Wednesday 8 April 2020), police stopped a vehicle on Robert Street, South Tamworth to conduct a roadside breath test. The driver, a 17-year-old girl and her two male passengers, aged 21 and 30, were unable to provide a reasonable excuse for not being home. Follow inquiries, police discovered that the men had already been fined for not complying with ministerial directions under the Public Health Act on Saturday 4 April 2020. They both received their second PIN for the same offence and the driver was given a caution.

• About 1.30am (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Lake Macquarie Police District were patrolling Rathmines when they observed a motorcycle and car parked near the boat ramp at Styles Point Reserve. Police spoke with a 40-year-old man and a 54-year-old woman who provided differing versions as to why they were at the location, and officers were unable to establish ownership of the motorcycle. The bike was seized, and the pair was issued with $1000 PINs.

• About 12pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers attached to Nepean Police Area Command were conducting patrols in Kingswood when they approached two men and a woman on Aspen Street. Following inquiries, searches were conducted and the men, both aged 34, were allegedly found in possession of methylamphetamine. One man was charged with possess prohibited drug and issued a Future Court Attendance Notice. The second man was arrested and taken to Penrith Police Station where he was charged with two counts of possess prohibited drug and matters related to an outstanding warrant. He will appear at Penrith Local Court on Wednesday 3 June 2020. Both men and the 21-year-old woman were also issued with PINs.

• About 1pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers spoke with a 34-year-old man on a train near Dapto, who was travelling without a ticket. The man told the officers he was going for a swim, but he did not have swimming gear. Checks revealed the man had previously been given two warnings for breaches of a ministerial direction, and during a subsequent search of the man, police seized a knife. He will be issued with a Court Attendance Notice for custody of a knife in a public place, a $1000 PIN, and Transport Infringement Notice for travel without valid ticket.

• Just before 1pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Traffic and Highway Patrol were patrolling at Liverpool, when they stopped to speak with three people on Moore Street. No one in the group was able to provide a reasonable excuse for being out of home, and they were given a warning under the Public Health Act. After checks revealed that one of the women – aged 30 – had been warned the night before, she was issued a $1000 PIN.

• About 2pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Mt Druitt Police Area Command attended a shopping mall at Mt Druitt, following reports a group of people had gathered to drink alcohol. Police spoke with a group of six people at the location and issued warnings under the Public Health Act. Checks revealed that two of the men – aged 20 and 27 – had previously received two PINs, a 29-year-old man had received a PIN last week, while a fourth man – aged 31 – had received prior warnings. The four men were issued with a $1000 PIN before the group was given a move-on direction.

• About 2.40pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Richmond Police District were patrolling West Ballina when they observed a vehicle parked at the end of Burns Point Ferry Road overlooking the Richmond River. Police spoke with the occupants – a 61-year-old woman and a 38-year-old man – who advised they’d travelled from Byron Bay to go shopping. Following inquiries, officers issued the pair $1000 PINs.

• About 5pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from South Coast Police District were attending an unrelated job at a Narooma address, when a 41-year-old man arrived to visit the occupants of the home. After speaking with the man, officers searched him and seized a small amount of cannabis. The man was issued with a Field Court attendance Notice for possessing a prohibited drug and a PIN for failing to comply with a noticed direction.

• About 6pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from South Coast Police District attended a home on Leumeah Street, Sanctuary Point, following reports an AVO had been breached. Police spoke to a 19-year-old man, who is not a resident of the home. Inquiries revealed he had not breached an AVO, but his repeated attendance at the home was a breach of the Public Health Act. He was subsequently issued with a $1000 PIN before he returned home.

• A man and woman were issued PINs after police detected their vehicle travelling over 100km/h in an 80km zone on the M1 Motorway in Kiah about 6.10pm (Thursday 9 April 2020). The driver, a 38-year-old woman, was arrested after returning a positive roadside drug test. Upon searching the passenger, a 29-year-old man, police located a pipe allegedly concealed in his underwear. Neither could provide police with a reasonable excuse to why they were almost 300km away from their residence in the Wollongong area, and as a result they were issued with PINs for failing to comply with ministerial directions. The woman was also issued a traffic infringement for exceed speed over 10kph.

• About 6.30pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers attached to Mid North Coast Police District were conducting random breath testing on Macleay Valley Way in South Kempsey when they stopped a white Subaru Forrester and spoke with the driver, a 31-year-old woman. Inquiries revealed she had received a PIN for not complying with a ministerial direction on Sunday 5 April 2020. The woman, from East Kempsey, was issued a second PIN for breaching the Public Health Act. She was also issued a Field Court Attendance Notice for the possession of prohibited drugs and firework after police located methylamphetamine allegedly hidden in her bra and a firework in the glove box of the vehicle. She is due to due to appear at Kempsey Local Court on Monday 13 July 2020.

• About 6.30pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers attached to Kuring Gai Police Area Command were conducting patrols in Gordon when they saw seven young people smoking and drinking at a park on Werona Avenue. A 15-year-old girl was identified as having received two previous warnings for breaching the Public Health Act and was issued with a $1000 fine. The rest of the group were given cautions and directed to return home.

• About 7pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), officers from Brisbane Water Police Transport Command stopped and spoke to a 30-year-old man who was sitting near Gosford Railway Station. The man could not provide a reasonable excuse for being away from his Wyong home, and inquiries revealed he had received several warnings in previous days in relation to breaching a Public Health Order. He was issued with a $1000 PIN and given a move-on direction.

• About 9.15pm (Thursday 9 April 2020), a 34-year-old woman was spoken to at Quirindi by officers from Oxley Police District, and could not provide officers with a reasonable excuse for being out. She was given a move-on direction. About 30 minutes later, the woman was seen by police again a short distance away, having ignored their direction to return home. She was issued with a $1000 PIN.

Since 17 March 2020, police have issued 28 Court Attendance Notices, and 245 PINs for breaches of the Public Health Act.
Anyone who has information regarding individuals or businesses in contravention of a COVID-19-related ministerial direction is urged to contact Crime Stoppers: https://nsw.crimestoppers.com.au. Information is treated in strict confidence. The public is reminded not to report crime via NSW Police social media pages.

Parents in NSW will not have to pay preschool fees for up to six months thanks to a $51 million funding package announced by the NSW Government.
The NSW Government has also committed up to $82 million to support 260 council childcare centres who are not eligible for the JobKeeper payments.
Premier Gladys Berejiklian said preschools and early childhood educators are vital to the community, and it is important parents continue to have access to childcare during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Parents are under a lot of pressure at the moment and it’s crucial for them to continue to have access to childcare, particularly those working on the frontline during this crisis,” Ms Berejiklian said.
“This will also provide funding certainty during an unpredictable time, ensuring preschool teachers and educators can be confident they will remain employed.
“This will provide financial relief to families during the pandemic and ensure childcare centres remain viable into the future.”
The funding will be available to 700 State-funded community preschools and 38 mobile services that provide care to 45,000 three to five year olds.
Treasurer Dominic Perrottet said the recently announced Working for NSW Fund would contribute towards the state’s community preschools.
“This fund was set up to keep people in jobs and by supporting the sector, we’re ensuring the future of these early childhood services beyond this health crisis.
“It will also ease cost-of-living pressures on families in these tough times.”
Minister for Education and Early Childhood Learning Sarah Mitchell said the funding means community preschools and council childcare centres would be required to remain open, unless they are closed on health advice.
“Preschools and council childcare centres will now have the peace of mind that they will be financially viable, and parents will benefit from the relief of not having to pay any fees,” Ms Mitchell said.
“Families and children can now also be assured that their preschool service will continue to operate, providing some familiarity for them during these trying times.”
Today’s funding is on top of the NSW Government’s commitment to maintain Start Strong funding for preschools based on service enrolments before COVID-19.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott welcomed 263 new recruits to the NSW Police Force today after they were sworn in as probationary constables in Goulburn during a private attestation ceremony.
Mr Elliott said the State would be a safer place with the recruits assigned to local Police Commands across NSW where they will commence duties over the coming weeks.
“I want to welcome each and every attesting recruit to the police family. This is not an easy time to be a first responder. Our Class 340 recruits have come at an important time for the state of NSW,” Mr Elliott said.
“Due to the current restrictions, these recruits have not had the send-off into their new careers that they deserve. I am working with Commissioner Fuller to ensure that all recruits attesting this year will be celebrated bigger than ever when it is safe to do so.
“These officers can be assured they have the full support of this Government. The NSW Government has invested $583 million to introduce 1,500 extra police over the next four years, the biggest investment in police for more than 30 years.”
NSW Police Force Commissioner Mick Fuller said the latest intake of probationary constables will provide a valuable boost to police resources as the state faces the threat of COVID-19.
“I welcome our newest police officers from Class 340 who attest at a very significant time. They will hit the ground running, and I want them to know that I have their back,” he said.
Class 340 includes 177 men and 86 women. Some recruits entered the NSW Police Academy straight from school or university, while others left established professional careers and trades.
The recruits have completed eight months of foundational training and those allocated to metropolitan commands will report to their stations on Tuesday 14 April 2020.
Thirty-one recruits were born overseas in countries including Italy, Afghanistan, USA, Thailand and Lebanon. Five recruits are Indigenous with two coming through the Indigenous Police Recruitment Our Way Delivery (IPROWD) program.