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Licensees work together to make Wagga a Safer Place to Enjoy a Night Out

14 August 2008

The Wagga Liquor Accord met today to proactively address the issue of alcohol related violence on our streets. The Accord meeting of 20 local publicans was also attended by representatives from the Police Force and Liquor, Gaming & Racing. The licensing sergeant praised the hotel and club owners for taking the initiative and for pro-actively co-operating in order to curb anti-social behaviour in our city.

The Capital Function and Entertainment Centre have recently trialled a scheme which prevents binge drinking and controls alcohol consumption prior to leaving the premises. It successfully reduces alcohol intake prior to closing time. The effect is that patrons are less boisterous when leaving and making their way home as this is where trouble has occurred previously.  The initiative was commended by the Police Officer and Liquor, Gaming & Racing Inspector present and adopted unanimously by the accord to be implemented across Wagga. (scheme details below.)

 The Capital ‘s owners, Reg Qemal and Alec Alabakis, also suggested a further scheme which has been very successful in Geelong called Just Think. It is community education scheme education supported by local sporting heroes advising people of the dangers of alcohol. It has street credibility as it doesn’t tell young people not to drink it simply asks them to think about the consequences of their actions and encourages them to behave responsibly. Supported by the local media and an informative website it is another attempt to isolate the few who engage in anti social behaviour.

Waggas licensees have invested heavily in their venues and provision of service and so they are keen to ensure that a night out in Wagga in not only enjoyable but safe. The Liquor Accord is an excellent example of a community group co-operating together and ensuring that we can all have a fun night out without any trouble.

The publicans are working closely with the Police to reduce alcohol related assaults and violence. The Police are strictly applying the ON THE SPOT fines for failing to leave licensed premises, returning after eviction or carrying alcohol into the street and are in constant communication with security staff. There was the suggestion of Banned from one: Banned from all whereby the small group of persistent offenders can be prevented from visiting all licensed premises within the city for a period. In an attempt to reduce crime the Liquor Accord will consult with Liquor Gaming & Racing to agree an effective, legal, registered scheme which will ensure Wagga is a safer place to enjoy a good night out.

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