Police and operators of Berwick’s Blitz nightclub are organising underage youth events for the city’s teens. From left: General manager Joe Giustiniano and group general manager Jacky Marie from Blitz nightclub and Casey youth resource officer Senior Constable Dave Smith.CASEY’S police are blitzing youth parties – but in a positive way.
Local police members have come forward to assist Berwick’s Blitz Nightclub, at Berwick Springs, to organise a responsible and safe event for the city’s underage youth.
The inaugural event will be held later this year, and while it is usual to see police cracking down on unsupervised youth parties, members have welcomed the opportunity to get involved at the ground level and play a part in the organisation of these events.
Casey youth resource officer Senior Constable Dave Smith said the events would target youth from 14 to 17 years of age.
“While police will always be there to reinforce lawful social behaviour we also recognise the need for venues to provide young people with the opportunity to relax and have a good time,” he said.
Victoria Police, City of Casey Council and Berwick Springs owner Sam Castello are working together closely to come up with an appropriate format for the events, which are currently planned to run once a month in September, October and November on a Sunday evening.
Mr Castello has confirmed that Blitz Nightclub will not profit from the evenings with any monies raised to be channelled back into the community to support other youth activities throughout Casey.
“I am happy to take this opportunity to give something back to a community which has traditionally been very supportive of the Berwick Springs establishment,” he said. “The events are obviously going to be alcohol-free and at this stage we are planning for a 10pm finish.”
Organisers believe the success of the event ultimately relies on the level of support received from Casey’s youth and their parents, with police urging a responsible approach and adequate planning by party-goers.
“We expect parents to play their part by dropping off and picking up their kids to avoid any problems with safety and anti-social behaviour,” Casey Police Inspector Bob Hill said. “Ultimately it will be the broader community which decides whether these types of events continue, but with sound planning we believe this initiative can be a great success for the youth of Casey.”
Organisers are asking interested community members to be part of a committee to help plan and oversee the Blitz Nightclub underage events. For more information contact Senior Constable Dave Smith at Narre Warren Police Station on 9705 3172.
