Here’s a news update version:

A merchandise giveaway promoted on social media has sparked a major police operation in Newcastle, with investigations continuing after hundreds of people gathered at a skate park in the city’s west.

Police were called to the Ingall Street skate park at Mayfield about 1pm yesterday after approximately 200 people, including around 40 riders on unregistered trail bikes, converged on the area following a clothing brand’s online promotion offering free merchandise.

The large gathering prompted authorities to deploy PolAir from Sydney to monitor the situation, while several nearby streets were temporarily closed and traffic diverted due to public safety concerns.

During the incident, one woman was arrested and a police vehicle was allegedly damaged. Officers also used capsicum spray to break up a fight that erupted among those in attendance.

Newcastle City Police District Commander Superintendent Kylie Endemi said investigators are now reviewing extensive footage captured throughout the operation.

Police inquiries into the incident remain ongoing.