Tasmania Police conduct training at UTAS Stadium

University of Tasmania Stadium was closed off for three hours as officers took part in role-play based exercises, which focused on the apprehension of armed offenders.

Northern District Commander Brett Smith said police were taking a proactive approach to ensure officers were prepared for all situations, including the possibility of terrorist activities.

“What’s happening around the world is there has been some heightened concern around terrorism activities … whilst we don’t have those concerns in Tasmania … there’s still always the potential,” he said.

“The venue is open, it provides a range of challenges with corridors, doorways, wide open space, closed space … from an exercise perspective it’s a great venue because it’s secure and it’s largely out of the public eye.”

The training sessions will be held again on March 8,15, 22 and 29, from 10am to 1pm.

“This is all about community safety … we need our people confident, skilled and capable of being able to confront any challenge,” Commander Smith said.

Residents are reminded not to be alarmed if ‘gun shots’ are heard near the location during scheduled training times.

Anyone with concerns should contact police on 131 444.