A community carol event in Melbourne was disrupted by gangs of youths with machetes.
Bayside Carols in the Park in Brighton on Tuesday night was attended by thousands of families who witnessed police clash with young people.
Victorian MP James Newbury, who represents Brighton, said officers chased the armed teenagers who jumped fences at Dendy Park and fled down nearby Glencairn Ave.
Officers made several arrests when they caught up with members of the group on the corner of Dacey St, Newbury said.
Images shared on social media show patrols on the streets surrounding the park.
The event is run by Bayside Council and started around 5.30pm before a concert at 7.30pm and fireworks at 9.30pm.
Daily Mail Australia has contacted Victoria Police for comment.
More to follow.
The event took place in the Melbourne suburb of Brighton (file image) on Tuesday night and police made several arrests.