POLICE sniffer dogs will patrol the Two Tribes rave next Sunday as part of a major safety crackdown triggered by last year's overdose crisis.
Under unprecedented security, staff will check every bag that enters Melbourne Park and use metal-detecting sensors to search ticket holders at the gates.
A poster campaign highlighting the deadly risks of GHB – the drug also known as grievous bodily harm or liquid ecstasy – will also be unveiled in time for the event.
Ten people fell unconscious after swallowing GHB during the Two Tribes rave last year.
This year, organisers Future Entertainment have arranged for an on-site doctor, five registered nurses, two paramedics and 10 first aid practitioners.
Police Superintendent Mick Williams said passive alert detector dogs would form part of the heavy police presence.
He warned of a tough approach to drug taking and dealing, including driving drugged or drunk.
"We are keen to prevent a repeat of the disappointing events of last year," Supt Williams said. "And we will continue with the tough approach we adopted for the Summadayze festival."
At the New Year's Day event, sniffer dogs detected 30 people who were charged with drug-related crimes.
The State Government fast-tracked a code of practices for raves after last year's Two Tribes casualties.