Strict voluntary controls on pension day liquor sales in Halls Creek

19/2/97

The licensees of the Kimberley Hotel in Halls Creek and the Halls Creek Liquor Store have agreed to introduce strict voluntary restrictions on the sale of liquor every second Thursday, pension day.

Racing and Gaming Minister Max Evans announced the agreement today when opening the Australian Hotels' Association's Entertainment Expo and warmly applauded the licensees for their commitment to the community they work in.

"The licensees will begin a 12-month trial starting tomorrow and will voluntarily impose restrictions which go far beyond the restrictions which were introduced in 1992," Mr Evans said.

"They have taken the initiative after consultations with the Halls Creek Shire Council's sub-committee on alcohol related matters, which means that they have substantial community support."

Mr Evans said that the restrictions were:

·      no sale of any fortified wines;

·      no sale of any four-litre wine casks;

·      no sale of any full strength beer in any bar before 5 pm;

·      no sale of any full strength beer as take-aways before 5 pm;

·      after 5 pm, only half cartons of full-strength beer would be sold at one per customer;

·      no sale of packaged liquor after 10 pm; and -

·      no sale of spirits in bottles greater than 750ml.

The restrictions would not apply to sales on accounts for delivery to properties, stations, mine sites or similar establishments more than 20kms from Halls Creek, or to bona fide tourists passing through the town or staying overnight at approved camping and tourist facilities, or to residents of the hotel.

The more modest 1992 restrictions had had a positive influence in the community and it was believed that these more stringent restrictions on pension days would further lessen the effects of alcohol abuse.

Mr Evans said he endorsed the view of the licensees that these voluntary restrictions would provide a stimulus for the Halls Creek community to tackle other social problems such as drug abuse, truancy, street drinking and vandalism.

"This is yet another demonstration by the liquor industry that it takes its responsibilities for the responsible consumption of alcohol very seriously," he said.

"The industry has introduced accords in both Fremantle and Perth to cut the abuse of alcohol and it has shown leadership in similar ways in a number of country centres."

Media contact: Hugh Ryan 481 3244