Leavers Week preparations are in place from November 23 to 26.

It is estimated that 200 school leavers are expected to visit the shire for Leavers celebrations.

Margaret River officer in charge Paul Daley said it was important to ensure the safety and security of leavers, as well as the general community.

“Historically in Margaret River the general behaviour of visiting school leavers has been good,” he said.

“A focus this year will be to minimise the negative impact of school leavers who are staying in private accommodation and homes in the shire, residents are encouraged to report any disturbances in their neighborhood during the week.”

Police will not tolerate street drinking, antisocial behaviour or any criminal acts.

Under the new Liquor Control Act juveniles are unable to possess alcohol in a public place, can be fined $200 and opened or unopened alcohol will be confiscated by police.

Adults who purchase liquor for juveniles can be fined a maximum of $2000.

The Augusta-Margaret River Make it Happen Group have been planning for the event for 12 months.

The group comprises representatives from the Shire of Augusta-Margaret River, Margaret River police, Margaret River Hospital, volunteers and community members.

Planning for 2010 involved collaboration with the South West Leavers Group and the Busselton-Dunsborough Make it Happen Group to implement the Office of Crime Prevention Leavers WA State Strategy.

Shire president Ray Colyer said the main intent of the group was to support and implement various harm minimisation strategies for school Leavers.

“Keeping young people safe while allowing them to celebrate in a way that has minimal impact on the local community is our key focus,” he said.

With no official events planned in the shire, accommodation providers in Prevelly will be supported by the Red Frog Crew, Drug Arm, Seventh Day Adventist Volunteers and the shire to provide onsite support services and social activities, with the aim of promoting safety and fun.

Prevelly Park Beach Resort has 175 leavers booked for the week.

For more information regarding Leavers Week contact senior community development officer Renae Davies on 9780 5269 or visit the official Leavers website www.leaverswa.com.au.