By Cameron Weston
INCLEMENT weather and disorderly youths played a part in the 30th annual Williamstown Festival over the weekend, but the much-loved event was declared a success by organisers and locals alike.
Heavy rain and storms blew through Williamstown on Friday night and Saturday, but outdoor events went ahead and were well attended, said festival director Fleur Arnold.
“It really went off with a bang on Saturday night, it was a real highlight of the festival,” she said.
Ms Arnold said the ever-popular fireworks, fire twirlers and a laser display drew a big crowd in Commonwealth Reserve, and she estimated about 100 people turned up for the outdoor cinema, an event which was rained out last year.
But the fireworks were followed by some unruly behaviour as youths ran amok in Commonwealth Reserve and around Nelson Pl.
Acting Senior Sergeant Marty Wallace from Williamstown Police said there were several incidents of anti-social behaviour after the fireworks.
“Overall the festival went smoothly but we did have an element there on Saturday night that caused us a few issues,” he said.
“We are looking at certain incidents.
“The main problem was between Nelson Pl and the (Williamstown) railway station as the crowds dispersed.
“It would appear that underage drinking was a factor … it all occurred after the festival and was a short duration.
“I want to stress that overall the festival went very well, but we did have an anti-social element there that caused us a few problems.”
Acting Sen Sgt Wallace said six police were at the festival, but other officers were called to the scene to boost the police presence.
The weather cleared on Sunday and blue skies greeted festival-goers who headed back to the Williamstown foreshore to soak in the carnival atmosphere.
Ms Arnold said an exhibition at Customs House charting the history of the festival was well attended, and music and community events attracted good crowds.
