SCHOOL is out and groups of school leavers are expected to descend on North Stradbroke Island.
Redland City Council is urging young people who may be planning to visit the island for 'pre-schoolies' to stay vigilant and follow Queensland Health COVID-19 restrictions.
Mayor Karen Williams said there is expected to be an influx of school leavers on the island during the September school holidays.
"While there are usually no planned events for pre-schoolies, there are generally large gatherings on the island's beaches and in the townships," she said.
Queensland Health was aware of the situation on Straddie during September.
"We welcome these young adults to Redlands Coast, but with large groups comes heightened risk of virus transmission so it is also vital that they help us prevent local outbreaks by adhering to COVID-19 restrictions.
"This includes keeping to the physical distancing rule of staying at least 1.5m away from others, the gathering rules of no more than 10 people in public and private places - excluding venues with a COVID-safe plan," she said.
According to police breaches could result in fines up to $13,000 or six months in prison.
Meanwhile police are set to clamp down on anti-social behaviour and liquor-related offences and have beefed up patrols with additional police to bolster the number of officers already posted at Dunwich and Point Lookout.
Cr Peter Mitchell said young visitors to the island should follow any directions given by police.
"There are vulnerable communities living on Minjerribah, and the last thing we would want to see is an outbreak of COVID-19 there," he said.
"The rules are in place for a good reason and fines for breaches are significant.
"While Minjerribah is a beautiful location to celebrate the transition from school to adulthood, I urge all visitors to the island to help keep themselves and others safe by acting responsibly, knowing the rules, and keeping to them."
