2024 leavers: WA Police South West superintendent Geoff Stewart issues final warning to Year 12 cohort

WA Police have issued a final warning to leavers to ensure young people “go home in one piece” as celebrations begin throughout the South West. The 2024 leavers event starts on Monday and has attracted thousands of graduates to the region. Local police have been bolstered with additional officers to enforce safe driving while also deterring any illegal behaviour at designated leavers zones. On Sunday South West Supt Geoff Stewart warned attendees — and their parents — to ensure their focus. “Don’t drink and drive, don’t take drugs and drive, wear your seatbelts, don’t look at your phone while your driving (and) don’t hoon,” he said. “We don’t want to see any more funerals. “Don’t embarrass yourself, don’t embarrass your school and don’t embarrass your family.” Supt Stewart urged parents to check on the welfare of their children attending leavers on a regular basis. He added that police would watch for anyone trying to sneak into events without a wristband and for people who were not a recent Year 12. Anyone collecting a wrist band must bring hard copy identification and Year 12 documents. Police Commissioner Col Blanch confirmed alcohol and drugs would not be permitted inside designated leavers zones when speaking on ABC Radio last week. “We’ll be on the lookout for behaviour and high-risk behaviour, and if we think something’s going to cause a danger to someone, we will take all enforcement action within the law against those who are down there to do something high risk,” he said. “Have a lot of fun but be safe, don’t take risks, stay in your group, stay with your friends and don’t drink and drive. “If something goes wrong, find the nearest police officer and ask for their help.” Premier Roger Cook urged leavers to “take extra care” over the four-day celebration. “Don’t become a statistic, don’t let your family down, don’t let your friends down by misbehaving on the roads over Leavers,” he said on Sunday. Wristbands sales closed at 7pm on Sunday night and can be collected in Vasse, Dunsborough and Busselton during the week, granting access to the Entertainment Zone and Beach Fest. Anyone who experiences trouble or who feels unwell at leavers is urged to find the nearest medic, police officer or call triple-0.