Tens of thousands of teenagers will descend on the Gold Coast for annual coming-of-age schoolies celebrations.
Authorities say Surfers Paradise remains a popular spot for school leavers to party, although some are choosing to head overseas to Bali and Fiji.
From Saturday to Friday up to 27,000 teenagers are expected to converge on the city, many heading to a dedicated alcohol-free entertainment precinct at Surfers Paradise where DJs will play each night.
There will be a huge police presence which will be supported by about 1000 volunteers who will mingle with revellers keeping an eye out for trouble and offering support.
Acting Chief Superintendent Des Lacy says the main concern was people jumping from balcony to balcony on high-rise buildings.
"We've already seen catastrophes occur when that happens," he told media this week.
"What we ask of young people ... (is) if you see that sort of behaviour please let us know."
A 17-year-old schoolgirl from Brisbane fell to her death from a Surfers Paradise balcony two years ago.
Supt Lacy says his main message to those attending celebrations is to look out for one another.
"As the slogan says: `Be safe, watch your mates'," he said.
He also cautioned party-goers against posting inappropriate photos online as they could be viewed by potential employers.
Gold Coast schoolies advisory board chairman Mark Reaburn says planning the safety response for the event had been a year in the making.
The main concern each year was excess alcohol consumption, although schoolies had been more tame over the past few years, he says.
"Our message is enjoy yourself, don't hurt yourself, and I think that message is getting through," he told AAP.
Last year Queensland Ambulance Service staff treated about 500 schoolies within designated party precincts on the Gold Coast.
Most were treated for minor injuries, such as cuts, but many were treated for alcohol intoxication and a small number were treated for illicit drug use.
Assistant Commissioner Dee Taylor-Dutton reminded those attending to keep hydrated, with temperatures expected to reach the high 20s.
