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The Boxing Day Test and Sydney to Hobart yacht race started under sunny skies and in the shadow of heightened terrorism concerns.
Less than a fortnight after the Martin Place siege tragedy, there was plenty of visible security around the MCG and Sydney Harbour on Friday for two of Australia’s iconic sporting events.
Prime Minister Tony Abbott warned three days ago of heightened terrorist chatter following Martin Place.
Security at the MCG was at a level usually only seen for the AFL grand final or the Anzac Day blockbuster.
There were added checkpoints on Brunton Ave and car boots were searched before entering Yarra Park.
The police presence in and around the ground seemed normal for a major event.
“We are in regular contact with police and the relevant authorities to ensure we have the most appropriate security measures in place,” a Cricket Australia spokesman said.
“The safety of players, officials and fans is our highest priority.”
On Sydney Harbour, there was the usual obvious presence of police and NSW Maritime officers to keep vessels outside the race exclusion zone as the fleet set off for Hobart.
However, event organisers said there were no extra security measures in place for the start.
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