Liquor accords on the north coast have banded together to fund a television campaign to discourage violent behaviour in licensed premises.
Byron Bay’s Accord president, Elke van Haandel, who is also general manager of the Beach Hotel, says the campaign will run over the Christmas / New Year period on all three commercial TV networks.
The accords taking part are Byron Bay, Grafton, Hastings, Lismore and Lower Clarence.
‘The people who operate licensed premises want to see patrons enjoy themselves, but not at the expense of others,’ she says.
‘Particularly during this festive season, many people are out and about. It’s important that all patrons understand the type of behaviour that is expected of them in licensed premises and also the type of behaviour that won’t be tolerated. People who are drunk, disorderly or violent will be asked to leave premises.
‘If they refuse they are liable to significant fines that can be imposed on the spot by police.’
Elke added, ‘It’s important for visitors to remember that just because they are away from home, this doesn’t mean they are able to behave at a standard lower than they would in licensed premises situated in their home towns.’
The television campaign will conclude after the new year.
