Victoria Police will be out and about at Melbourne parks,beaches and in the CBD tomorrow for Cup Day with anti-lockdown protesters planning to re-emerge for the second time this long weekend.
A police spokeswoman said police presence across Port Phillip Bay and parks would increase as normal as the weather warms up,and that the Chief Health Officer's directions would continue to be enforced.
Currently COVID-19 directions in Melbourne stipulate gatherings in public spaces must no more than 10 people in size,and people must not have travelled more than 25 kilometres to be there.
"We know many people will be particularly keen to get outside and enjoy the sunshine over the coming days but police ask that you to do so safely,"she said.
"Police will not allow anyone to engage in criminal or disruptive behaviour,particularly those that have a negative impact on the rest of the community."
Despite restrictions being relaxed,anti-lockdown groups are still planning to gather in the CBD on Cup Day at midday for the second time this long weekend.
On Saturday 21 people were arrested at protest in Treasury Gardens,with more than 100 officers swarming the planned event.
Of the 21 arrested,20 were fined for breaching Chief Health Officer directions (worth $1652 per fine) while the other person was arrested for a drug-related offence.
"Everyone has a right to protest peacefully,as long as it is in accordance with the Chief Health Officer directions and does not impact the rest of the community,who also have the right to go about their daily business,"the police spokeswoman said.
"Anyone coming into the city in blatant breach of the directions,or looking to disrupt others,create conflict and incite violence can expect a very firm response from police."