RESIDENTS of Keith Compton Dr, Tweed Heads fear Australia Day 2012 will see a repeat of the drunken stupidity displayed last year.

Margaret Bingley said she had been so disgusted last year that she signed a petition with a group of residents asking for alcohol free zones in the area, however, she said it was largely ignored by Tweed Shire Council and Tweed police.

"There were young people all along the river abusing their right to drink. Police gave out infringement notices, but it's unacceptable behaviour," Ms Bingley said.

"It's not their right to ruin everyone else's day.

"If they had put up alcohol free zone signs like they have across the border they may have had a better chance of avoiding it again this year.

"But it's going to be exactly the same problems."

Police have estimated more than 5000 people gathered at John Follent Park off Keith Compton Dr in Tweed Heads for last year's celebrations.

Tweed officers made multiple arrests for incidents including assault, a robbery, thefts, offensive language and affray with 22 criminal charges laid.

The most violent attack involved a teenage boy who had his jaw broken when his head was stomped on by two youths.

Police conducted 220 random breath tests and found seven drink-drivers including three boat drivers caught by water police.

Inspector Darren Steel said police had already begun their preparations for Australia Day - traditionally one of their busiest days of the year.

He said it often took weeks to plan resources in order to keep patriotic revellers safe.

"We're still confirming a few extra resources and we'll be doing more preparation this coming week," he said.