VICTOR HARBOR - It's that time of the year again when school leavers across the state converge on Victor Harbor, for a weekend of celebrations at the Encounter Youth Schoolies' Festival.
One of the state's biggest youth festivals, Schoolies will celebrate its 11th year from November 20-22.
With up to 10,000 school leavers attending the festival, Schoolies' 2009 has met the growing demand with the addition of a new entertainment tent and a record number of 500 Encounter Youth Green Team volunteers.
Director of Encounter Youth Nigel Knowles said organisation for the festival was well on track, with organisers excited for the coming weekend.
"I'm really looking forward to it. Encounter Youth has worked hard over 11 years with the council, the community, SA police and state government to ensure a safe celebration," he said.
"We have turned a negative event into a positive engagement with young people."
Entertainment this year promises to please, with DJs and artists from across the nation ready to perform for school leavers and four Schoolies' venues situated on Warland Reserve.
Club Schoolies, the One HD Lounge room, the Beach Hut Nightclub and Derringers Live and Loud Stage will all be available for school leavers wearing a Schoolies' wristband.
"We've increased the venues this year to ensure all school leavers have access to safe and secures venues in the festival," said Mr Knowles.
Free shuttle buses will be also be available for those attending the event, provided they have a visible wristband.
Buses will run from Goolwa, Middleton and Port Elliot to Victor Harbor three times a day, then half hourly from 7.30pm to 3am.
For a seat on the bus from Adelaide to Victor Harbor return, bookings must be made before the festival.
Mr Knowles reminded school leavers that staying safe is paramount.
"Get prepared and be proactive. Always stay with mates, look after your mates, use the bus service and lookout for the Green Team for help," he said.
The Encounter Youth Schoolies' Festival has been declared a drug and alcohol free zone, and 140 South Australian police officers will be on the lookout for those breaching the restrictions.
According to Superintendent Tom Rieniets of the Hills Fleurieu division, police will be putting an emphasis on drink and drug driving.
Drug detection dogs will be used during the event, as will be drug testing and breathalyser stations.
"The overall emphasis is on safety. The big message is if Schoolies have any fears or doubts about the people they're mixing with they should contact police," said Superintendent Rieniets.
He also reminded school leavers to be respectful during the festivities.
"Be mindful of other people's privacy and needs," he said.
SA Ambulance and St Johns are also expected to be out in force during the Schoolies' Festival.
Schoolies '09 tickets can be purchased at the Surf Shop Victor Harbor for local students and online at www.schooliesfestival.com.au