Rainbow Serpent: 'No Excuse' For Reckless Behaviour At Event

The organisers of Victoria's Rainbow Serpent Festival have released a statement thanking the majority of their patrons for behaving responsibly at this year's event over the Australia Day weekend while, at the same time, reiterating that they will not tolerate dangerous or criminal buffoonery going forward.

Despite the charging of a 35-year-old man over an alleged indecent assault on the morning of 25 January, as well as a handful of drug-related charges being laid on other punters, police and organisers alike have officially praised the restraint and well-mannered revelry that defined the weekend.

"While there were a small number of incidents, which obviously attracted the media's focus, the vast majority of patrons behaved wonderfully," festival director Tim Harvey said in the statement. "It is obvious through the many friendly interactions our patrons had with police that their presence is appreciated and welcomed."

"We have an exceptional track record over the past 17 years of running a large festival free from violence and aggression and are saddened and disturbed that violence would occur within our amazing festival," Harvey continued.

"This type of behaviour is totally unacceptable. We believe it was an isolated incident which is completely contrary to the tolerance, respect and peace that goes into creating this festival."

In echoing police sentiments regarding the decision by some patrons to engage in drug- or drunk-driving, Harvey said the practice "is dangerous and puts lives at risk".

"There is no excuse for this kind of reckless behaviour," he said.

As much as credit rests with the patrons themselves for behaving like adults, Harvey was also generous with praise for the local constabulary, who helped ensure the wider event was as safe and wrinkle-free as possible.

"Quite simply, the police and other emergency services this year were brilliant," Harvey said. "When you have an event with the population of a small city that runs for five days there will always be a number of people who require assistance. The dedication and professionalism of our on-site medics and other emergency services is appreciated and applauded."

Their dance moves are, too:

Rainbow Serpent organisers are taking a breather before commencing work on next year's event; applications to perform will open in June, so you've got a few months yet to start polishing that set.