Protecting the Olympic Torch

As the Olympic Torch made its way to Canberra, in the lead up to the Beijing Games, it was followed by protests and demonstrations. SNP Security was charged with the task of protecting the Canberra relay event, delivering an incident-free event under significant pressure

The Challenge
Relay organisers were forced to alter the original route after pro-Tibet protestors caused havoc in torch relays overseas. Security was a priority. It was imperative to keep the full convoy secure all of the way along the route.  The route of the relay was released to SNP Security only days before the event, showing that the torch will pass major Canberra landmarks including the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House.

Preparations
SNP Security met with organisers, including key major government stakeholders and BOCOG Officials, several times each week leading up to the event. The security brief was amended in line with international activity and police intelligence, to accommodate the changing political situation.  Once the relay route was announced, SNP Security quickly made arrangements for a combination of fencing, mobile patrols and protective services. Over 34 Kilometres of temporary fencing as delivered in the days prior to the relay, and mobile patrols secured the perimeter constantly to ensure no breach was made.

On the Day
SNP Security worked closely with Australian police to manage the crowds as well as securing the VIP area. Our Security Officers were particularly active in protecting the landmark buildings of the Australian War Memorial and Parliament House. Over 65 Security Officers were coordinated, by 3 Security Managers and 7 supervisors, through detailed operational briefs and on-site direction. The relay was deemed a big success by organisers, comparatively trouble-free and peaceful. Tens of thousands of spectators had lined both sides of the streets with only minor scuffles reported.

While escorting Kevin Gosper, the International Olympic Committee Vice President, to his vehicle; he told our Security Manager “You guys did a wonderful job, you should be proud of yourselves”.

Dianne Ireland, Senior Manager of the Special Events Unit for the Chief Ministers Department complimented the Canberra team on their performance: "You did an unbelievable job and contributed greatly to the success of the relay. The success is yours as much as it is ours and you should all be proud of the achievement"

For more information:
Peter Georgiou, Manager - Protective Services Canberra
Email. Pgeorgiou@snpsecurity.com.au

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