Tasmania Police has praised the behaviour of about 5500 people who attended the 2026 Devonport Cup at the Spreyton Racecourse yesterday.

Police had a strong presence the event, with members from Uniform, Criminal Investigation Branch and Drugs & Firearms Unit areas patrolling the grounds to assist with public order and to provide reassurance. The drug detection dog was also in attendance.

During the day there were 750 wand searches conducted, with no weapons or dangerous articles were located during the wand searches.

There were no arrests made at the Devonport Cup, however two men were given formal directions to leave the grounds after the conclusion of the last race due to their behaviour. Both men complied with the direction given and left the area without incident.

Acting Inspector Martin Parker said that the behaviour of patrons at the Devonport Cup was excellent and it was pleasing there was no arrests made at the venue.

“It was very gratifying for police members at the event to be stopped by members of the public and personally thanked for their service and ensuring people’s safety at the Cup.”

Peter George, Deputy Chair of the Devonport Racing Committee, stated “We were overwhelmed by the support of Tasmania Police at yesterday’s Devonport Cup. The police presence, in conjunction with security, provided a safe environment for everyone to enjoy themselves and have a good time.”

Western Road Policing Services conducted traffic operations in the vicinity of the Devonport Cup, where 827 RBTs were completed. Four traffic infringement notices and one defect notice were issued during the traffic operations.

Acting Inspector Martin Parker said it was very pleasing that no drink (or drug) drivers were detected during the traffic operations around the Devonport Cup.

“As we know, alcohol is a contributor to many fatal and serious crashes, so it’s fantastic that drivers did the right thing yesterday,” he said.

At the conclusion of the Devonport Cup, the police focus was around the Devonport CBD and licensed premises, as many cup patrons make their way into these areas within the city.

During the evening/night there was one arrest made for public order type offences. A woman was bailed to appear at the Devonport Magistrates Court at a later date.