WA: Perth sweats its way into the New Year

AAP General News (Australia)
12-31-2008
WA: Perth sweats its way into the New Year

PERTH, Dec 31 AAP - Perth residents are sweltering through 37 degree temperatures as
they prepare to celebrate the New Year, but there's worse to come on the first day of
2009, the weather bureau says.

As police geared up for the thousands of revellers expected in Fremantle, Northbridge
and the beachside suburbs of Cottesloe and Scarborough, they issued pleas for people to
act responsibly through the heat.

"Our message to the community this year is have a good time by all means but do so
responsibly," said Assistant Commissioner Dominic Staltari.

"Be tolerant, be patient, respect yourself, respect others and we'll all get along."

Mr Staltari said six rapid response crews would be on standby to deal with any incidents
as they arose.

In the Perth entertainment centre of Northbridge, three stages have been set up to
cater to all ages and musical preferences.

The entertainment begins at 9.30pm and Transperth will be running extra services on
the night to help patrons get home.

Those who want a close-up view of fireworks will have to pay to attend the New Year's
Eve display at the city's Gloucester Park venue.

On New Year's Day, the weather bureau predicts the temperature will soar to 39C, before
cooling down slightly to 37C on Friday.

AAP was/cdh

KEYWORD: EVE PERTH

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