The Queensland Police Service (QPS) thanks the Riverfire 2025 attendees for their behaviour throughout the night.
The QPS is pleased to report the crowd was very well behaved. Only 11 people were arrested in relation to offences such as public nuisance and a minor driving offence. Four people were issued with move on directions.
Behind the scenes of major events, such as Riverfire, are large policing operations that ensure the community is safe and feels safe.
Early this year, using the learnings from Riverfire 2024 – in addition to decades of local major event experience – the Brisbane Major Events Planning Unit (MEPU) began planning the operational component for Riverfire 2025.
Key factors for consideration included police resourcing to ensure public safety, managing major road, bridge, river and cycleway closures, and managing large crowds.
Today, 6 September, the State Police Operations Centre (SPOC), was stood up, to oversee the major event operation.
General duties police in addition to supporting units including Water Police, Brisbane City Bike Squad, Highway Patrol, Tactical Crime Squad, Criminal Investigations Branch, POLAIR, Child Protection and Investigation Unit, Road Policing Command and partner agencies assisted throughout the night.
SPOC liaised with all officers on the ground and key partner agencies who had representatives in the room to streamline communications.
Spectators lining the bank of the Brisbane River were treated to a performance by the Queensland Police Pipes and Drums band, who performed from a patrolling Water Police vessel.
Riverfire Operations Commander, Acting Superintendent Stewart Day said operations went smoothly throughout the night.
“Queensland Police were pleased with crowd behaviours and the flow of major road, river, and cycleway closures and reopenings.”
