MELBOURNE – Victoria Police will be out and about to ensure Melbourne’s first Lunar New Year festival of 2019, held in St Albans, is a safe and happy one.

Celebrating the year of the pig, this year’s Lunar New Year officially starts on February 5, 2019.

Divisional Commander of North-West Metro Region Superintendent David Jones says there will be a strong police presence at the St Albans festival on Afrieda Street from 10am on Sunday January 6.

“Police are looking forward to attending the festival again this year, one of the many vibrant and multicultural events that Melbourne has to offer”, Superintendent Jones said.

“We know that this is a significant celebration for our Vietnamese and Chinesecommunities, and we look forward to being there to help hundreds of festival-goers feel safe.

“Our police presence will also send a clear message to anyone thinking about attending the event to cause trouble.

“We will not accept any unwanted or anti-social behaviour that ruin celebrations for anyone else.

“If you attend the event and behave in a disruptive manner, you will be swiftly arrested and held to account.

“We’re excited to see festival-goers enjoy the event, which promises a number of activities and entertainment, including information stalls, food, music, rides, and liondancing,” Superintendent Jones said.

“Police will be in attendance until the end of the event, which concludes with a special fireworks display from 9.30pm.”