A picnic, a beer, a wine and the skyshow, it is an Australia Day tradition for thousands of West Australians.
But, this year alcohol was off the cards.
After years of violence and antisocial behaviour, police this year declared a zero-tolerance approach to public drinking, no longer turning a blind eye to the hundreds of families enjoying a quiet drink on the foreshore.
Street drinking is illegal in Western Australia but the Premier Colin Barnett believes police should be able to use their discretion.
"If someone turns up with a bottle of wine or a couple of cans of beer to have an Australia Day drink, I think you should be able to do that," he said.
"I support police in taking a strong stand against antisocial behaviour, aggressive behaviour, drunkenness at any event and particularly on Australia Day, but the flip side was that many people obviously made a decision not to go."
Indeed, numbers at the foreshore were significantly lower than in previous years.
The City of Perth estimates about 300,000 people attended the skyshow with others saying the real figure was closer to 250,000.
The Lord Mayor Lisa Scaffidi said there was no doubt some families chose not to come because of the liquor restrictions.
"Some families might have been deterred because of all the discussions prior to the event of the potential for problems," she said.
Both the Premier and Lord Mayor say while public safety is a priority, the tough policy needs to be reviewed to allow people to enjoy a quiet drink.
"I do believe that in this day and age responsible parents and families should be able to quietly imbibe and it is only the minority that always tend to spoil it for the majority," Ms Scaffidi said.
But, the call is likely to be strongly rejected by police who have hailed this year's skyshow as a rousing success.
Arrests were way down on previous years, with 47 people arrested and almost 400 liquor infringements issued.
"I got a lot of positive responses from people there who said this is great, it has changed skyworks," the Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan said.
The commander in charge of the skyshow Michelle Fyfe made no apologies for the tough approach.
"One thing I can say is that if our policing approach kept those drunken yobbos home and stopped them from ruining the night for families and people who wanted to enjoy what was a great event, then we are happy with that," she said.
She refused to weigh in on the Premier's call for review.
"The Premier of the state is entitled to do whatever he chooses," she said.
With the opposing sides ready to launch into battle, it seems the showdown on the ground could be just as captivating as the fireworks overhead.
Issued by abc.net.au 28th January 2010
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/28/2803968.htm
Friday, January 29, 2010
Will the close of the Tote force Government to back down on tough live music laws?
JANUARY 18 may not have been the day the music died in Melbourne, but it certainly got a good kicking.
The closure of the Tote Hotel in Collingwood made the venue the first victim of tough new liquor licensing laws introduced to Victoria on January 1.
Under the new legislation, the Tote was deemed a "high-risk" venue because of its 3am closure, despite a 20-year history of almost no violence.
Is the Government killing off Melbourne's music scene? Blog with music writer Cameron Adams today from 1pm over on the right. You can leave your questions/opinions for him now.
It's not just the Tote - any venue playing live "amplified" music is now required to have security guards out front, whether it be a pub or folk music cafe or a deli.
See what the musos think of the situation below
James Young, owner of Melbourne's Cherry Bar in AC/DC Lane, says the closure of the Tote sent a "worrying message" through the city's music scene that it wouldn't be the last venue to feel the wrath of the new laws.
"I'm sure behind closed doors there were a few very powerful people doing high fives when the Tote closed, going `Excellent, one down, 20 to go'," Young says.
"It seems the Government thinks late night means after 11pm. Not all of us live in Brighton and walk big dogs. The problem with closing late-night venues is they'll close the wrong ones. People into live music, they just don't fight. A few streets away from Cherry there's blood in the gutters every weekend.
"And what they don't understand is they've ruffled the feathers of the normally lazy music industry. They got off their a---s and went to march at the Tote to send a message to (Premier John) Brumby and the Government that you've pushed us too far."
As Melbourne's live music industry was gripped by crisis, the senior Government officials responsible for liquor licensing were taking it easy this week.
Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson and Liquor Licensing director Sue Maclellan took Monday off. Maclellan was on holiday and her office said she was not available for interview, even though many observers believe her job is on the line over the crisis, which could cost the Government inner-city votes at November's state election.
"Her reputation is absolute mud," one industry source says.
Maclellan's apparent nonchalance may be well placed - she has previously proved herself a tough operator by keeping the director job even after an ill-fated plan to impose a 2am nightclub lockout in 2008.
Despite being technically on holiday, Robinson has been working the phones, trying to restore relations between a Government worried about an electoral backlash and an industry that loathes and fears Maclellan.
Many live venues contacted by extraHit declined to discuss Maclellan.
"There's a real concern among licensees about speaking out," one says. "According to the Liquor Control Reform Act of 1998, the role of the director is to represent the licensees, not intimidate them."
On Tuesday, the Government signalled it was about to backpedal on the link between live music and the high-risk designation.
One of the players in the mix to take over the Tote's licence, Jon Perring, has already met with local member Dick Wynne, who cut his holiday short because of the crisis.
Together with other industry representatives, Perring, a partner in popular venues Bar Open, Yah Yahs and Pony, met Maclellan yesterday and will talk with Robinson today.
Robinson says "all options are on the table" as part of a music-industry roundtable to be held on February 10, with players including musician Dave Graney.
And last night, Maclellan extended an olive branch to the industry, saying she was open to continued discussions.
Perring has reactivated his long-standing campaign, Fair Go 4 Live Music, collecting 20,000 members on a Facebook group and about 10,000 signatures on a petition in a week.
Asked if Maclellan would survive as director, Perring says he is "focused on the issue, not the man".
"That's not for me to determine, but I don't think she has too many friends," he says. Perring says he's more interested in fighting the liquor-licensing issue than taking over the Tote, which he and his business partners are "looking at".
"I've been on the phone every day, networking like crazy," he says.
"There's a lot of support for this now. We've really been working on this since September because gigs have been dropping off all over town."
The rules covering late-trading venues with amplified music had been unchanged since the late 1990s. But the crackdown started in the middle of last year when a new compliance directorate, nicknamed "Sue's Stormtroopers", started work.
Removing the link between live music and a venue being classified as high risk would not involve a change to the law, Perring says.
Gigs, where people come together to share their love of music, are "exactly the kind of thing you want happening" in licensed venues, he says.
"People who go to see live music are part of a community, they're there to see a band -- and it's generally all over by 1am."
The Tote's closure is unfortunate timing. After years of being hit by nightclubs, live music is having a renaissance.
"Considering all the woes of the record industry, the live industry in Melbourne is alive and well," tour promoter and record company boss Michael Gudinski says.
"I have full respect for the police and Sue Maclellan trying to clean up the trouble, but live music venues, particularly the ones that support Australian music, aren't the trouble places. Live music venues are completely different to the nightclub scene. They're looking in the wrong places."
Young says the new laws are hitting the Cherry hard.
"I might want to put on Spencer P. Jones on a Tuesday night to play for an hour and hopefully bring in 20 people who are music fans. You wouldn't do that now because you have to pay security $35-$40 an hour, you have to have two of them working for a minimum of five hours," he says.
"You're in a scenario where the musician gets paid $200 and the security guard gets $500 -- and you only expected to attract 20 people. So you close on Tuesday and close on Sunday."
Young says the increased costs associated with being "high risk" -- including security, CCTV and higher licensing fees -- really hurt smaller businesses. "To large businesses, the big beer barns and Crown Casin, it's water off a duck's back."
Cherry's 5am licence means increased costs, but Young says it was their saving grace.
"We're the go-to venue of choice for bands who have finished playing. If we were compelled to shut at 3am by the Government that would kill us. That's where all our profitability is," he says.
"I wouldn't want to be telling Eddie Vedder or Kings of Leon, `Sorry guys you're in Melbourne, it shuts at 2am, welcome to Tidy Town'. Josh Homme was in the bar on Friday. He'll go around the world telling people how great Melbourne is because of its vibrant music scene, in live venues and small, lovable dirty rock-and-roll bars."
TOTE licensee Bruce Milne, who is dealing with what he calls the "brutal reality" of cleaning out his venue, says the rules have to change quickly or the pub will remain empty.
"Unless there is a change, no one can run it at a profit, so no one will take it over," he says.
Milne owed about $100,000 when he decided to pull the plug on the Tote, but a week of bumper trading looks likely to dramatically shrink the debt.
"I'll maybe walk out of it with $10,000 to $20,000 of debt. I'm still way out of pocket."
The pressure needs to stay on if there is to be any change to the rules, he says.
"If they string it out until the election and get over the line, I'm sure it will just disappear."
Young says that though the Government has aimed to help musicians with the Victoria Rocks program, the liquor licensing situation is negating their good work.
"They've been doing a good job giving out modest-sized grants to bands to help the music industry and foster this reputation we have for being the music capital of Australia. The irony is the Government is giving with one hand and taking with the other. They don't understand the link between licensing and late nights and the Melbourne music scene.
"Does the Government really think a town full of venues that close at 10pm that are jam-packed with poker machines is healthier in terms of anti-social behaviour than a city full of live music venues with people having a ball?"
What the musos think
MELBOURNE'S musicians have been riled by the closure of the Tote and the threats to shut other venues.
"They shut down the Tote. The Duke of Windsor shut, the Greyhound, Punters Club, now the Arthouse is closing," Melbourne singer/songwriter Dan Sultan says.
"Why don't they shut down Hungry Jack's on Chapel St? People are getting strangled in there. Shut down the strip clubs where people are getting shot and stabbed. Shut down QBH, which has massive all-in brawls. I'm sick of this anti-social behaviour. That didn't happen at the Tote."
Sultan says Melbourne's live culture is at risk.
"Rock and roll is where my faith lies. And a lot of people in this town and country, not just musicians but music fans, feel the same. They can take away as many churches as they want but they'll never stop us. All we need is a guitar. We're going to do whatever we want. We'll play if we want, where we want. We're not doing anything evil. I'll just point at the scoreboard -- stabbings: zero, punch-ons: zero, women being assaulted: zero, drinks being spiked: zero. Just fun."
Dave Graney agrees.
"Many female friends have pointed out that these clubs and pubs like the Tote have always been places where they can go and not be hit on, monstered, groped and pawed by drunk and horny dopes. People go to these places to listen to music. Many women have said they always felt they could go to these Melbourne rock clubs by themselves and stand around, listening to the bands by themselves, and not feel as if they were in a swingers' bar. It was a legitimate place to be."
Graney sees the new laws as a "blunt instrument" causing damage to "the quite vulnerable and delicate" Melbourne live music scene.
"The bureaucrats are blind and have to listen to the people that are being affected.
"The story of the Tote itself is bad. Really it seems to be the tip of the iceberg. The Melbourne music scene is not Rod Laver Arena and whoever is playing at the Grand Prix, it's the small clubs.
"I really think it's time for the State Government to foster the scene and to nurture it. They should not be making it harder and harder for the venues just to appear as if they are tough and hard."
Musician Megan Washington moved to Melbourne for its vibrant arts and culture scene. She played her first Melbourne gig at the Spanish Club and her first Sydney gig at the Hopetoun. Both venues are now closed.
"Tragedy always brings people together," Washington says. "There is a real sense of the national music community going `We need our venues, this is s---'.
"I'd hate to see any more venues in Melbourne go."
However, she remains positive this isn't the death knell of the local live scene. "Necessity is the mother of invention. I'm sure there'll be more warehouse parties with live bands. It's not going to kill the live music scene, but I do think it's really really short-sighted of the powers that be."
Ben Birchall, now a Triple R Breakfaster, has played an array of gigs around Melbourne with bands Klinger and the Corrections.
He sees the Tote closure and the Arthouse's closure next year as an example of inflexible bureaucracy.
"You only need to walk down King St on a Saturday night to realise there are venues causing problems and they need to do things about that. No one's arguing about that. But unfortunately, if you're inflexible with these things, there are needless casualties.
"This could be catastrophic unless something's done. These venues are disappearing anyway out of commercial reality. The Government is adding needless fees to people trying to make a living out of what's really a very unprofitable thing, but a very necessary thing for Melbourne. That's what the State Government and liquor licensing need to look at, how they're affecting the character of the city."
Similarly, small venues like the Tote and the Arthouse let young bands find their musical chops.
"That's how a band gets good, from show to show," Birchall says. "The Tote would have bands on a Tuesday where it was just their friends bolstering them through that period. Every band needs that period. They need to get through that, the good ones do and the bad ones don't. It's a filtering process."
Brendan Suppression, singer in Eddy Current Suppression Ring (who played the Tote's farewell show) says the live scene will adapt, but hopes it doesn't get worse.
"We haven't yet seen much of the effects of these laws. Clearly the people who make these laws have just chucked it all in one bag. They're lazy. Hopefully all this outrage is not falling on deaf ears."
Tom Hartney from Little Red says the fallout from the Tote has had one positive effect.
"This law change is a wake-up call to people who are passionate about music to get out and support it. We get lazy as we get older, but we need to make a conscious effort to go out and support live music and not baulk at paying $5. All you can do is vote with your feet."
Issued by Herald Sun 29th January 2010
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/music/will-the-close-of-the-tote-force-government-to-back-down-on-tough-live-music-laws/story-e6frf9hf-1225824301309
The closure of the Tote Hotel in Collingwood made the venue the first victim of tough new liquor licensing laws introduced to Victoria on January 1.
Under the new legislation, the Tote was deemed a "high-risk" venue because of its 3am closure, despite a 20-year history of almost no violence.
Is the Government killing off Melbourne's music scene? Blog with music writer Cameron Adams today from 1pm over on the right. You can leave your questions/opinions for him now.
It's not just the Tote - any venue playing live "amplified" music is now required to have security guards out front, whether it be a pub or folk music cafe or a deli.
See what the musos think of the situation below
James Young, owner of Melbourne's Cherry Bar in AC/DC Lane, says the closure of the Tote sent a "worrying message" through the city's music scene that it wouldn't be the last venue to feel the wrath of the new laws.
"I'm sure behind closed doors there were a few very powerful people doing high fives when the Tote closed, going `Excellent, one down, 20 to go'," Young says.
"It seems the Government thinks late night means after 11pm. Not all of us live in Brighton and walk big dogs. The problem with closing late-night venues is they'll close the wrong ones. People into live music, they just don't fight. A few streets away from Cherry there's blood in the gutters every weekend.
"And what they don't understand is they've ruffled the feathers of the normally lazy music industry. They got off their a---s and went to march at the Tote to send a message to (Premier John) Brumby and the Government that you've pushed us too far."
As Melbourne's live music industry was gripped by crisis, the senior Government officials responsible for liquor licensing were taking it easy this week.
Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson and Liquor Licensing director Sue Maclellan took Monday off. Maclellan was on holiday and her office said she was not available for interview, even though many observers believe her job is on the line over the crisis, which could cost the Government inner-city votes at November's state election.
"Her reputation is absolute mud," one industry source says.
Maclellan's apparent nonchalance may be well placed - she has previously proved herself a tough operator by keeping the director job even after an ill-fated plan to impose a 2am nightclub lockout in 2008.
Despite being technically on holiday, Robinson has been working the phones, trying to restore relations between a Government worried about an electoral backlash and an industry that loathes and fears Maclellan.
Many live venues contacted by extraHit declined to discuss Maclellan.
"There's a real concern among licensees about speaking out," one says. "According to the Liquor Control Reform Act of 1998, the role of the director is to represent the licensees, not intimidate them."
On Tuesday, the Government signalled it was about to backpedal on the link between live music and the high-risk designation.
One of the players in the mix to take over the Tote's licence, Jon Perring, has already met with local member Dick Wynne, who cut his holiday short because of the crisis.
Together with other industry representatives, Perring, a partner in popular venues Bar Open, Yah Yahs and Pony, met Maclellan yesterday and will talk with Robinson today.
Robinson says "all options are on the table" as part of a music-industry roundtable to be held on February 10, with players including musician Dave Graney.
And last night, Maclellan extended an olive branch to the industry, saying she was open to continued discussions.
Perring has reactivated his long-standing campaign, Fair Go 4 Live Music, collecting 20,000 members on a Facebook group and about 10,000 signatures on a petition in a week.
Asked if Maclellan would survive as director, Perring says he is "focused on the issue, not the man".
"That's not for me to determine, but I don't think she has too many friends," he says. Perring says he's more interested in fighting the liquor-licensing issue than taking over the Tote, which he and his business partners are "looking at".
"I've been on the phone every day, networking like crazy," he says.
"There's a lot of support for this now. We've really been working on this since September because gigs have been dropping off all over town."
The rules covering late-trading venues with amplified music had been unchanged since the late 1990s. But the crackdown started in the middle of last year when a new compliance directorate, nicknamed "Sue's Stormtroopers", started work.
Removing the link between live music and a venue being classified as high risk would not involve a change to the law, Perring says.
Gigs, where people come together to share their love of music, are "exactly the kind of thing you want happening" in licensed venues, he says.
"People who go to see live music are part of a community, they're there to see a band -- and it's generally all over by 1am."
The Tote's closure is unfortunate timing. After years of being hit by nightclubs, live music is having a renaissance.
"Considering all the woes of the record industry, the live industry in Melbourne is alive and well," tour promoter and record company boss Michael Gudinski says.
"I have full respect for the police and Sue Maclellan trying to clean up the trouble, but live music venues, particularly the ones that support Australian music, aren't the trouble places. Live music venues are completely different to the nightclub scene. They're looking in the wrong places."
Young says the new laws are hitting the Cherry hard.
"I might want to put on Spencer P. Jones on a Tuesday night to play for an hour and hopefully bring in 20 people who are music fans. You wouldn't do that now because you have to pay security $35-$40 an hour, you have to have two of them working for a minimum of five hours," he says.
"You're in a scenario where the musician gets paid $200 and the security guard gets $500 -- and you only expected to attract 20 people. So you close on Tuesday and close on Sunday."
Young says the increased costs associated with being "high risk" -- including security, CCTV and higher licensing fees -- really hurt smaller businesses. "To large businesses, the big beer barns and Crown Casin, it's water off a duck's back."
Cherry's 5am licence means increased costs, but Young says it was their saving grace.
"We're the go-to venue of choice for bands who have finished playing. If we were compelled to shut at 3am by the Government that would kill us. That's where all our profitability is," he says.
"I wouldn't want to be telling Eddie Vedder or Kings of Leon, `Sorry guys you're in Melbourne, it shuts at 2am, welcome to Tidy Town'. Josh Homme was in the bar on Friday. He'll go around the world telling people how great Melbourne is because of its vibrant music scene, in live venues and small, lovable dirty rock-and-roll bars."
TOTE licensee Bruce Milne, who is dealing with what he calls the "brutal reality" of cleaning out his venue, says the rules have to change quickly or the pub will remain empty.
"Unless there is a change, no one can run it at a profit, so no one will take it over," he says.
Milne owed about $100,000 when he decided to pull the plug on the Tote, but a week of bumper trading looks likely to dramatically shrink the debt.
"I'll maybe walk out of it with $10,000 to $20,000 of debt. I'm still way out of pocket."
The pressure needs to stay on if there is to be any change to the rules, he says.
"If they string it out until the election and get over the line, I'm sure it will just disappear."
Young says that though the Government has aimed to help musicians with the Victoria Rocks program, the liquor licensing situation is negating their good work.
"They've been doing a good job giving out modest-sized grants to bands to help the music industry and foster this reputation we have for being the music capital of Australia. The irony is the Government is giving with one hand and taking with the other. They don't understand the link between licensing and late nights and the Melbourne music scene.
"Does the Government really think a town full of venues that close at 10pm that are jam-packed with poker machines is healthier in terms of anti-social behaviour than a city full of live music venues with people having a ball?"
What the musos think
MELBOURNE'S musicians have been riled by the closure of the Tote and the threats to shut other venues.
"They shut down the Tote. The Duke of Windsor shut, the Greyhound, Punters Club, now the Arthouse is closing," Melbourne singer/songwriter Dan Sultan says.
"Why don't they shut down Hungry Jack's on Chapel St? People are getting strangled in there. Shut down the strip clubs where people are getting shot and stabbed. Shut down QBH, which has massive all-in brawls. I'm sick of this anti-social behaviour. That didn't happen at the Tote."
Sultan says Melbourne's live culture is at risk.
"Rock and roll is where my faith lies. And a lot of people in this town and country, not just musicians but music fans, feel the same. They can take away as many churches as they want but they'll never stop us. All we need is a guitar. We're going to do whatever we want. We'll play if we want, where we want. We're not doing anything evil. I'll just point at the scoreboard -- stabbings: zero, punch-ons: zero, women being assaulted: zero, drinks being spiked: zero. Just fun."
Dave Graney agrees.
"Many female friends have pointed out that these clubs and pubs like the Tote have always been places where they can go and not be hit on, monstered, groped and pawed by drunk and horny dopes. People go to these places to listen to music. Many women have said they always felt they could go to these Melbourne rock clubs by themselves and stand around, listening to the bands by themselves, and not feel as if they were in a swingers' bar. It was a legitimate place to be."
Graney sees the new laws as a "blunt instrument" causing damage to "the quite vulnerable and delicate" Melbourne live music scene.
"The bureaucrats are blind and have to listen to the people that are being affected.
"The story of the Tote itself is bad. Really it seems to be the tip of the iceberg. The Melbourne music scene is not Rod Laver Arena and whoever is playing at the Grand Prix, it's the small clubs.
"I really think it's time for the State Government to foster the scene and to nurture it. They should not be making it harder and harder for the venues just to appear as if they are tough and hard."
Musician Megan Washington moved to Melbourne for its vibrant arts and culture scene. She played her first Melbourne gig at the Spanish Club and her first Sydney gig at the Hopetoun. Both venues are now closed.
"Tragedy always brings people together," Washington says. "There is a real sense of the national music community going `We need our venues, this is s---'.
"I'd hate to see any more venues in Melbourne go."
However, she remains positive this isn't the death knell of the local live scene. "Necessity is the mother of invention. I'm sure there'll be more warehouse parties with live bands. It's not going to kill the live music scene, but I do think it's really really short-sighted of the powers that be."
Ben Birchall, now a Triple R Breakfaster, has played an array of gigs around Melbourne with bands Klinger and the Corrections.
He sees the Tote closure and the Arthouse's closure next year as an example of inflexible bureaucracy.
"You only need to walk down King St on a Saturday night to realise there are venues causing problems and they need to do things about that. No one's arguing about that. But unfortunately, if you're inflexible with these things, there are needless casualties.
"This could be catastrophic unless something's done. These venues are disappearing anyway out of commercial reality. The Government is adding needless fees to people trying to make a living out of what's really a very unprofitable thing, but a very necessary thing for Melbourne. That's what the State Government and liquor licensing need to look at, how they're affecting the character of the city."
Similarly, small venues like the Tote and the Arthouse let young bands find their musical chops.
"That's how a band gets good, from show to show," Birchall says. "The Tote would have bands on a Tuesday where it was just their friends bolstering them through that period. Every band needs that period. They need to get through that, the good ones do and the bad ones don't. It's a filtering process."
Brendan Suppression, singer in Eddy Current Suppression Ring (who played the Tote's farewell show) says the live scene will adapt, but hopes it doesn't get worse.
"We haven't yet seen much of the effects of these laws. Clearly the people who make these laws have just chucked it all in one bag. They're lazy. Hopefully all this outrage is not falling on deaf ears."
Tom Hartney from Little Red says the fallout from the Tote has had one positive effect.
"This law change is a wake-up call to people who are passionate about music to get out and support it. We get lazy as we get older, but we need to make a conscious effort to go out and support live music and not baulk at paying $5. All you can do is vote with your feet."
Issued by Herald Sun 29th January 2010
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/entertainment/music/will-the-close-of-the-tote-force-government-to-back-down-on-tough-live-music-laws/story-e6frf9hf-1225824301309
Pokies profits take hit
PROFITS from poker machines have taken a multimillion dollar dive as government cash handouts cease and stimulus payments are wound back.
Latest figures show pokies revenue fell by $10 million to $377.25 million in the final six months of last year compared to the same period in 2008.
The largest drop was in December, where total revenue fell from $68.10 million in 2008 to $60.28 million last year.
Independent Senator and anti-pokies campaigner Nick Xenophon said the withdrawal of stimulus "has to be one of the key factors" for the fall in profits. "It's a welcome drop, but South Australians are still losing more than $1 million a day on the pokies and half of that comes from problem gamblers," he said.
He demanded bans on ATMs in pokies venues and the introduction of Smartcards.
Australian Hotels Association SA general manager Ian Horne said the result was the poorest in six years and major lottery jackpots had sucked money away from poker machines.
"We've had some massive megadraws in the national lotto, and when they sell record tickets that has an impact on us," he said.
"It's a pretty competitive environment because we compete with other entertainment options, including everything from major events to the movies."
Mr Horne said pubs and clubs were struggling to return to gambling profit levels achieved before the implementation of smoking bans.
There are now 12,742 poker machines placed in 564 venues statewide. Gambling revenue has declined about 4 per cent over the past five years, government figures show.
Issued by Adelaide now 28th January 2010
http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,26647068-5006301,00.html
Latest figures show pokies revenue fell by $10 million to $377.25 million in the final six months of last year compared to the same period in 2008.
The largest drop was in December, where total revenue fell from $68.10 million in 2008 to $60.28 million last year.
Independent Senator and anti-pokies campaigner Nick Xenophon said the withdrawal of stimulus "has to be one of the key factors" for the fall in profits. "It's a welcome drop, but South Australians are still losing more than $1 million a day on the pokies and half of that comes from problem gamblers," he said.
He demanded bans on ATMs in pokies venues and the introduction of Smartcards.
Australian Hotels Association SA general manager Ian Horne said the result was the poorest in six years and major lottery jackpots had sucked money away from poker machines.
"We've had some massive megadraws in the national lotto, and when they sell record tickets that has an impact on us," he said.
"It's a pretty competitive environment because we compete with other entertainment options, including everything from major events to the movies."
Mr Horne said pubs and clubs were struggling to return to gambling profit levels achieved before the implementation of smoking bans.
There are now 12,742 poker machines placed in 564 venues statewide. Gambling revenue has declined about 4 per cent over the past five years, government figures show.
Issued by Adelaide now 28th January 2010
http://www.news.com.au/adelaidenow/story/0,22606,26647068-5006301,00.html
Ban pool cues from pubs: paramedics
Queensland's ambulance officers want licensed venues to stop using pool cues and glass ashtrays to reduce the risk of being assaulted.
Last year the State Government banned glasses from some pubs and clubs to stop so-called "glassing" attacks.
Now the union representing Queensland's ambulance officers says pool cues and glass ashtrays have become a "weapon of choice" for drunken patrons who turn on paramedics.
Kroy Day from the Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers Union says paramedics are anxious about the makeshift weapons.
"Certainly they're weapons that people are using and if we can't make our people safe by any other means, then let's remove the weapons," he said.
"[This is] an indication of exactly how desperate and frustrated we are with the situation at the moment."
Mr Day says a survey of 142 ambulance officers showed 94 per cent had been assaulted on the job in the past five years.
"Back in 2002 we had about 22 or 23 officers assaulted. Last year the figure approached almost 150," he said.
"That's a really sad indictment on the community, considering the paramedics have been voted the most trusted profession in Australia for a number of years running."
Alcohol-fuelled violence
The paramedics' concerns have been presented in a submission to a Queensland parliamentary inquiry on alcohol-fuelled violence.
Mr Day says the problem has become so bad it is posing an "intolerable risk" to paramedics and pub patrons.
"More than 90 per cent of these assaults have been when there's been alcohol and/or drugs involved," he said.
"But the problem is that the violence is increasing and we need to do something to make sure people go home safe."
He says there is also anecdotal evidence which suggests rising violence is turning people away from the ambulance service.
"A little more than 10 per cent of paramedics who have been assaulted actually need some form of psychological intervention to get back to work," he said.
"So while it's hard to say 'X number of people have left', we certainly believe that there's a significant contributing factor here."
Queensland Premier Anna Bligh says she understands the ambulance officers' concerns about being attacked on the job and says she will consider their call for the ban.
"Obviously there are pros and cons to it. I'd like to talk to them more about it and we'd like to see some of the evidence but I welcome their contribution," she said.
"They're the guys out there on the front line often late at night when no-one else is and if they've got something to offer, we'll talk to them."
Industry outrage
But general manager of the Chalk hotel in inner Brisbane, Jason Titman, says hoteliers are frustrated and outraged by the idea of a ban.
"I think we've got to start getting some commonsense here and asking, 'where does it stop?'" he said.
"I think if we're going to start going down the path of banning pool cues and glass ash trays, we've really got to look at the credibility of our arguments here and what we're trying to achieve.
"Because are we going to then start asking females to not wear high-heeled stilettos? Are we going to ban bar stools and tables so we're all standing around?
"And are we going to ask you to leave your keys outside the venue? To me, it's absolutely absurd."
The Chalk is taking legal action against patrons who were involved in a glassing attack last year.
Mr Titman says he wants to put the onus back on individual responsibility and he thinks that is better than multiple bans.
"You can't keep taking things away from people like that," he said.
"What the industry and what I've been advocating for a long while is individual responsibility. If somebody plays up on a licensed premises then let's ban them from any licensed premises for a long period of time.
"The Government, certainly with the global financial crisis out there, are desperate for money. Instead of fining people $200, $300 - which for a lot of people these days they don't care about - let's fine them $5,000 or $10,000 and say how serious we are.
"I mean, we're saying these are serious offences, we've all had enough of it but the legislators don't seem to want it."
Mr Titman says if Queensland continues banning things from pubs and clubs people will just stay away from them and so will the tourists.
Issued by abc.net.au 28th January 2010
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/28/2804269.htm?section=justin
Last year the State Government banned glasses from some pubs and clubs to stop so-called "glassing" attacks.
Now the union representing Queensland's ambulance officers says pool cues and glass ashtrays have become a "weapon of choice" for drunken patrons who turn on paramedics.
Kroy Day from the Liquor Hospitality and Miscellaneous Workers Union says paramedics are anxious about the makeshift weapons.
"Certainly they're weapons that people are using and if we can't make our people safe by any other means, then let's remove the weapons," he said.
"[This is] an indication of exactly how desperate and frustrated we are with the situation at the moment."
Mr Day says a survey of 142 ambulance officers showed 94 per cent had been assaulted on the job in the past five years.
"Back in 2002 we had about 22 or 23 officers assaulted. Last year the figure approached almost 150," he said.
"That's a really sad indictment on the community, considering the paramedics have been voted the most trusted profession in Australia for a number of years running."
Alcohol-fuelled violence
The paramedics' concerns have been presented in a submission to a Queensland parliamentary inquiry on alcohol-fuelled violence.
Mr Day says the problem has become so bad it is posing an "intolerable risk" to paramedics and pub patrons.
"More than 90 per cent of these assaults have been when there's been alcohol and/or drugs involved," he said.
"But the problem is that the violence is increasing and we need to do something to make sure people go home safe."
He says there is also anecdotal evidence which suggests rising violence is turning people away from the ambulance service.
"A little more than 10 per cent of paramedics who have been assaulted actually need some form of psychological intervention to get back to work," he said.
"So while it's hard to say 'X number of people have left', we certainly believe that there's a significant contributing factor here."
Queensland Premier Anna Bligh says she understands the ambulance officers' concerns about being attacked on the job and says she will consider their call for the ban.
"Obviously there are pros and cons to it. I'd like to talk to them more about it and we'd like to see some of the evidence but I welcome their contribution," she said.
"They're the guys out there on the front line often late at night when no-one else is and if they've got something to offer, we'll talk to them."
Industry outrage
But general manager of the Chalk hotel in inner Brisbane, Jason Titman, says hoteliers are frustrated and outraged by the idea of a ban.
"I think we've got to start getting some commonsense here and asking, 'where does it stop?'" he said.
"I think if we're going to start going down the path of banning pool cues and glass ash trays, we've really got to look at the credibility of our arguments here and what we're trying to achieve.
"Because are we going to then start asking females to not wear high-heeled stilettos? Are we going to ban bar stools and tables so we're all standing around?
"And are we going to ask you to leave your keys outside the venue? To me, it's absolutely absurd."
The Chalk is taking legal action against patrons who were involved in a glassing attack last year.
Mr Titman says he wants to put the onus back on individual responsibility and he thinks that is better than multiple bans.
"You can't keep taking things away from people like that," he said.
"What the industry and what I've been advocating for a long while is individual responsibility. If somebody plays up on a licensed premises then let's ban them from any licensed premises for a long period of time.
"The Government, certainly with the global financial crisis out there, are desperate for money. Instead of fining people $200, $300 - which for a lot of people these days they don't care about - let's fine them $5,000 or $10,000 and say how serious we are.
"I mean, we're saying these are serious offences, we've all had enough of it but the legislators don't seem to want it."
Mr Titman says if Queensland continues banning things from pubs and clubs people will just stay away from them and so will the tourists.
Issued by abc.net.au 28th January 2010
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/28/2804269.htm?section=justin
Yobbos fail to spoil our national day
THE vast majority yesterday showed how Australia Day should be celebrated.
It was a typical day of Aussie sunshine and an array of festivities -- from barbecues to rodeos to splashing in the surf -- entertained thousands across the nation.
On the Gold Coast, the council-run event at Evandale was a great success, combined with the citizenship ceremony welcoming new Australians to the fold.
The Australia Day honours recipients, including eight Tweed and Gold Coast people, basked in the limelight of their deserved recognition.
Community workers Brian and Elizabeth Hamill, police superintendents Jim Keogh and Alistair Dawson, academics John William and Roger Kitching, sportsman Kelvin Kerkow and business entrepreneur Gordon Merchant are all great examples of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in their chosen field.
They are the type of contributions that make Australia great -- and that should be celebrated.
But still yesterday was marred by a few troublemakers on the Coast, intent on ruining the day for all those around them.
It seems the yobbos moved south because of the heavy police presence at Burleigh Heads, which was the site of last year's regrettable mayhem.
The overwhelming opinion of Bulletin readers is that Australia Day should remain a public holiday and that we should not give in to the lout element who clearly can't handle too much spare time and alcohol.
It was touted yesterday in this column that Australia Day should become a date in the calendar like Remembrance Day -- important but without the day off work.
But the enjoyment of the public holiday was clearly evident around the city yesterday and that has to be respected. Readers, you have been heard.
However, the scene of armed police, patrolling in numbers, some on horseback and some with sniffer dogs, to keep the peace at a Burleigh public park is about as 'un-Australian' as it gets -- to use a word that has been so misused it has almost lost meaning.
We cannot count the lack of violence at Burleigh yesterday as a success.
Sure, the police must chalk it up as a positive preventive law enforcement operation. But there is no patriotic or social 'success' in having to effectively run armed guards around a family picnic.
It is a slight on our community.
The increasing yobbo element among young men and women is a deeply worrying issue for Australia.
But the work ethic, determination, principles and values demonstrated by the Honours recipients, and the many people who supported them in their cause, give us hope.
Hope that the mob mentality is but a passing phase of a still emerging nation with an ever-changing face.
Yesterday, that face was overwhelmingly one of contentment and pride.
Issued by goldcoast.com.au 27th January 2010
http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2010/01/27/182455_editorial-news.html
It was a typical day of Aussie sunshine and an array of festivities -- from barbecues to rodeos to splashing in the surf -- entertained thousands across the nation.
On the Gold Coast, the council-run event at Evandale was a great success, combined with the citizenship ceremony welcoming new Australians to the fold.
The Australia Day honours recipients, including eight Tweed and Gold Coast people, basked in the limelight of their deserved recognition.
Community workers Brian and Elizabeth Hamill, police superintendents Jim Keogh and Alistair Dawson, academics John William and Roger Kitching, sportsman Kelvin Kerkow and business entrepreneur Gordon Merchant are all great examples of ordinary people doing extraordinary things in their chosen field.
They are the type of contributions that make Australia great -- and that should be celebrated.
But still yesterday was marred by a few troublemakers on the Coast, intent on ruining the day for all those around them.
It seems the yobbos moved south because of the heavy police presence at Burleigh Heads, which was the site of last year's regrettable mayhem.
The overwhelming opinion of Bulletin readers is that Australia Day should remain a public holiday and that we should not give in to the lout element who clearly can't handle too much spare time and alcohol.
It was touted yesterday in this column that Australia Day should become a date in the calendar like Remembrance Day -- important but without the day off work.
But the enjoyment of the public holiday was clearly evident around the city yesterday and that has to be respected. Readers, you have been heard.
However, the scene of armed police, patrolling in numbers, some on horseback and some with sniffer dogs, to keep the peace at a Burleigh public park is about as 'un-Australian' as it gets -- to use a word that has been so misused it has almost lost meaning.
We cannot count the lack of violence at Burleigh yesterday as a success.
Sure, the police must chalk it up as a positive preventive law enforcement operation. But there is no patriotic or social 'success' in having to effectively run armed guards around a family picnic.
It is a slight on our community.
The increasing yobbo element among young men and women is a deeply worrying issue for Australia.
But the work ethic, determination, principles and values demonstrated by the Honours recipients, and the many people who supported them in their cause, give us hope.
Hope that the mob mentality is but a passing phase of a still emerging nation with an ever-changing face.
Yesterday, that face was overwhelmingly one of contentment and pride.
Issued by goldcoast.com.au 27th January 2010
http://www.goldcoast.com.au/article/2010/01/27/182455_editorial-news.html
Australia Day violence flares on Coast
IT has become the day of pride when many Aussies hang their heads in shame.
Police responded to 150 calls within two hours on the Sunshine Coast that included frightening public brawls, lewd acts in front of children and a shocking alleged assault of a senior resident by a 16-year-old boy.
About 200 police were on duty throughout the day, but it was as the sun set on Australia Day 2010 that the unrest began.
Police say outbreaks of fights and other incidents were “sporadic” between Noosa and Caloundra and as far west as Landsborough, with only a small number of arrests up to 8pm last night
That could largely be due to the fact that most of the people of interest to police yesterday were moving on when directed, according to the Sunshine Coast’s police Australia Day evening commander. Inspector Mark Henderson said the majority of people complied with police requests.
“That wasn’t always the experience of police in previous years,” Insp Henderson said.
“We have attended to a number of incidents this year in which the behaviour of those spoken to was a big improvement.”
One young man, involved in a Mooloolaba Esplanade incident at 3.55pm, was not so agreeable and was subsequently arrested by police.
An eye witness said, “There were about 200 hundred people who had gathered around to watch these two groups of young people”.
“Police arrived and told them to move on, they’ve moved about 15 to 20 metres down the road and have started again.”
Three young teenagers, who witnessed a fight between men and women near the Mooloolaba McDonald’s restaurant about 4.50pm, came frighteningly close to the action.
“They came out of the bushes fighting and one has run across (Brisbane) Road and into the Shell service station and almost grabbed me,” one of the boys said.
“He has come back across the road and then one of the girls with one of the boys has started bashing another girl with a garden stake.”
The young boy’s friend, another witness, said “it all happened really quickly and was pretty scary”.
Insp Henderson said the altercation appeared a “sign of the times where a man has started it and a woman has finished it”.
Several police crews responded to reports of a brawl involving 80 people at the Landsborough railway station at 5.15pm. Police said the majority of the crowd had dispersed by the time police arrived some minutes later.
Emergency services were called to attend incidents involving young women.
A 15-year-old girl was reportedly found fitting face down in the river near the Noosa Woods at 3.15pm. The young victim suffered a broken nose and was taken to Nambour hospital.
Witnesses claim an elderly man was assaulted by a 16-year-old man in the same area about 4.30pm, but police were still trying to locate both men.
Issued by Sunshine Coast Daily 27th January 2010
http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2010/01/27/crude-rude-and-violent-at-days-end/
Police responded to 150 calls within two hours on the Sunshine Coast that included frightening public brawls, lewd acts in front of children and a shocking alleged assault of a senior resident by a 16-year-old boy.
About 200 police were on duty throughout the day, but it was as the sun set on Australia Day 2010 that the unrest began.
Police say outbreaks of fights and other incidents were “sporadic” between Noosa and Caloundra and as far west as Landsborough, with only a small number of arrests up to 8pm last night
That could largely be due to the fact that most of the people of interest to police yesterday were moving on when directed, according to the Sunshine Coast’s police Australia Day evening commander. Inspector Mark Henderson said the majority of people complied with police requests.
“That wasn’t always the experience of police in previous years,” Insp Henderson said.
“We have attended to a number of incidents this year in which the behaviour of those spoken to was a big improvement.”
One young man, involved in a Mooloolaba Esplanade incident at 3.55pm, was not so agreeable and was subsequently arrested by police.
An eye witness said, “There were about 200 hundred people who had gathered around to watch these two groups of young people”.
“Police arrived and told them to move on, they’ve moved about 15 to 20 metres down the road and have started again.”
Three young teenagers, who witnessed a fight between men and women near the Mooloolaba McDonald’s restaurant about 4.50pm, came frighteningly close to the action.
“They came out of the bushes fighting and one has run across (Brisbane) Road and into the Shell service station and almost grabbed me,” one of the boys said.
“He has come back across the road and then one of the girls with one of the boys has started bashing another girl with a garden stake.”
The young boy’s friend, another witness, said “it all happened really quickly and was pretty scary”.
Insp Henderson said the altercation appeared a “sign of the times where a man has started it and a woman has finished it”.
Several police crews responded to reports of a brawl involving 80 people at the Landsborough railway station at 5.15pm. Police said the majority of the crowd had dispersed by the time police arrived some minutes later.
Emergency services were called to attend incidents involving young women.
A 15-year-old girl was reportedly found fitting face down in the river near the Noosa Woods at 3.15pm. The young victim suffered a broken nose and was taken to Nambour hospital.
Witnesses claim an elderly man was assaulted by a 16-year-old man in the same area about 4.30pm, but police were still trying to locate both men.
Issued by Sunshine Coast Daily 27th January 2010
http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2010/01/27/crude-rude-and-violent-at-days-end/
Drunk brawls make Australia Day a day of dishonour
BRAWLING Australia Day revellers prevented paramedics from giving first aid to a man who had fallen from a 7m-high balcony.
In one of many shocking alcohol-fuelled incidents across the state, specialist police had to be flown in by helicopter to break up more than 20 people fighting while paramedics stabilised 23-year-old Andrew Hall.
Six people were subdued with capsicum spray and arrested at the scene at Hawks Nest, north of Newcastle, as Mr Hall was flown to hospital in a critical condition with spinal injuries.
He had emergency surgery yesterday but doctors fear he may not walk again.
A woman, 20, and a man, 28, were later charged with various counts of affray, resisting arrest, failing to comply with orders and assaulting a police officer.
"For people to have total disregard for the welfare of someone who is being treated by paramedics is nothing short of absolutely ludicrous," Senior Constable Tony Tamplin said. "What makes it more mystifying in this case is he was a friend to some of the people, yet their actions delayed the emergency treatment that was necessary."
NSW Ambulance Service divisional manager Allan Loudfoot said paramedics at the scene felt "extremely threatened".
"Some of the individuals certainly made life for the paramedics very difficult," he said.
Sen-Constable Tamplin said it was one of the worst Australia Days he had seen for alcohol-fuelled violence and injuries.
Across NSW, from the beaches of Manly to major country centres, 217 people were charged as part of Operation Medallion, which targeted revellers.
In Sydney, a 15-year-old girl suffered facial injuries after a fight between teenagers outside a hotel in Coogee, a man whose boat ran aground returned a blood-alcohol reading almost five times the legal limit and a police officer was punched in the face while trying to break up a fight in Cronulla.
Meanwhile, a 17-year-old is fighting for his life in Royal North Shore Hospital after he and seven other teenagers were badly burned when a bonfire exploded on the Central Coast.
Acting Inspector John Dooley said about 100 young people aged 14 to 20 were having an Australia Day party in a paddock on Ourimbah Creek Rd, Ourimbah when the blast occurred about 8.30pm.
"Initial investigations indicate a large amount of fuel poured on the fire was ignited, sparking the explosion," he said.
Mitchell Dematos, 17, of Wyoming, was flown to RNS Hospital for emergency surgery.
His brother Scott yesterday said the family was "devastated".
Issued by Daily Telegraph 28th January 2010
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/drunk-brawls-make-australia-day-a-day-of-dishonour/story-e6freuy9-1225824141960
In one of many shocking alcohol-fuelled incidents across the state, specialist police had to be flown in by helicopter to break up more than 20 people fighting while paramedics stabilised 23-year-old Andrew Hall.
Six people were subdued with capsicum spray and arrested at the scene at Hawks Nest, north of Newcastle, as Mr Hall was flown to hospital in a critical condition with spinal injuries.
He had emergency surgery yesterday but doctors fear he may not walk again.
A woman, 20, and a man, 28, were later charged with various counts of affray, resisting arrest, failing to comply with orders and assaulting a police officer.
"For people to have total disregard for the welfare of someone who is being treated by paramedics is nothing short of absolutely ludicrous," Senior Constable Tony Tamplin said. "What makes it more mystifying in this case is he was a friend to some of the people, yet their actions delayed the emergency treatment that was necessary."
NSW Ambulance Service divisional manager Allan Loudfoot said paramedics at the scene felt "extremely threatened".
"Some of the individuals certainly made life for the paramedics very difficult," he said.
Sen-Constable Tamplin said it was one of the worst Australia Days he had seen for alcohol-fuelled violence and injuries.
Across NSW, from the beaches of Manly to major country centres, 217 people were charged as part of Operation Medallion, which targeted revellers.
In Sydney, a 15-year-old girl suffered facial injuries after a fight between teenagers outside a hotel in Coogee, a man whose boat ran aground returned a blood-alcohol reading almost five times the legal limit and a police officer was punched in the face while trying to break up a fight in Cronulla.
Meanwhile, a 17-year-old is fighting for his life in Royal North Shore Hospital after he and seven other teenagers were badly burned when a bonfire exploded on the Central Coast.
Acting Inspector John Dooley said about 100 young people aged 14 to 20 were having an Australia Day party in a paddock on Ourimbah Creek Rd, Ourimbah when the blast occurred about 8.30pm.
"Initial investigations indicate a large amount of fuel poured on the fire was ignited, sparking the explosion," he said.
Mitchell Dematos, 17, of Wyoming, was flown to RNS Hospital for emergency surgery.
His brother Scott yesterday said the family was "devastated".
Issued by Daily Telegraph 28th January 2010
http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/news/drunk-brawls-make-australia-day-a-day-of-dishonour/story-e6freuy9-1225824141960
Hunter police seek alcohol limit after violent Australia Day
ANGRY police have vowed to push for more alcohol restrictions after Australia Day celebrations turned into the worst violence seen in Newcastle for more than a decade.
Constant brawls between drunken "ferals", some thought to be as young as 12, pushed emergency services to the limit as Newcastle's parks became a battle ground for alcohol-fuelled rage.
John Hunter Hospital staff said the day was a "nightmare".
The emergency ward needed extra security as even those with injuries had to be sedated and tied to beds because of their aggression.
Newcastle Ocean Baths was closed and emptied to clean up loads of broken glass dumped by drunks.
Newcastle police chief Max Mitchell's anger was palpable yesterday.
He said the situations his officers had to deal were disgraceful.
"Like always, they do not know when to stop drinking and the yobbo element takes over," Superintendent Mitchell said.
"We just had brawl after brawl after brawl. And the really unfortunate issue is that many of these [people] were under 18, and I am talking at 10pm or 11pm at night.
"I don't understand the mentality of the kids' parents and I am sick and tired of having to constantly deal with these people."
Police made 10 arrests in the city but many offenders were able to escape as officers tried to control the brawls instead of taking people into custody.
About 20,000 people celebrated Australia Day in areas surrounding the Newcastle Foreshore, King Edward Park and Empire Park.
Superintendent Mitchell said he would lobby the council to change alcohol-free zones in the parks, including the 8am-8pm "window" allowing alcohol consumption in King Edward Park, where thousands of mainly teenaged drinkers gathered.
"Many of my officers have said it was the worst night they have seen in more than 10 years," he said.
"Many others said they had never seen such attitude from young people, such abuse of alcohol and the amount of fights."
Newcastle Lord Mayor John Tate said he expected the council would support any police moves for tougher restrictions, adding it was "annoying that yobs and idiots just go mad on a day like that".
John Hunter Hospital emergency department services manager Catherine Foster-Curry said the evening was a "nightmare".
"From 7pm to about 5am we were faced with an endless procession of aggressive drunk young men, some with very significant injuries," she said.
"We needed security in the emergency department all night just trying to keep order."
Staff were physically and verbally abused with many patients having to be restrained and sedated so they could be treated.
Issued by the Herald Sun 28th January 2010
http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/news/general/hunter-police-seek-alcohol-limit-after-violent-australia-day/1735898.aspx
Constant brawls between drunken "ferals", some thought to be as young as 12, pushed emergency services to the limit as Newcastle's parks became a battle ground for alcohol-fuelled rage.
John Hunter Hospital staff said the day was a "nightmare".
The emergency ward needed extra security as even those with injuries had to be sedated and tied to beds because of their aggression.
Newcastle Ocean Baths was closed and emptied to clean up loads of broken glass dumped by drunks.
Newcastle police chief Max Mitchell's anger was palpable yesterday.
He said the situations his officers had to deal were disgraceful.
"Like always, they do not know when to stop drinking and the yobbo element takes over," Superintendent Mitchell said.
"We just had brawl after brawl after brawl. And the really unfortunate issue is that many of these [people] were under 18, and I am talking at 10pm or 11pm at night.
"I don't understand the mentality of the kids' parents and I am sick and tired of having to constantly deal with these people."
Police made 10 arrests in the city but many offenders were able to escape as officers tried to control the brawls instead of taking people into custody.
About 20,000 people celebrated Australia Day in areas surrounding the Newcastle Foreshore, King Edward Park and Empire Park.
Superintendent Mitchell said he would lobby the council to change alcohol-free zones in the parks, including the 8am-8pm "window" allowing alcohol consumption in King Edward Park, where thousands of mainly teenaged drinkers gathered.
"Many of my officers have said it was the worst night they have seen in more than 10 years," he said.
"Many others said they had never seen such attitude from young people, such abuse of alcohol and the amount of fights."
Newcastle Lord Mayor John Tate said he expected the council would support any police moves for tougher restrictions, adding it was "annoying that yobs and idiots just go mad on a day like that".
John Hunter Hospital emergency department services manager Catherine Foster-Curry said the evening was a "nightmare".
"From 7pm to about 5am we were faced with an endless procession of aggressive drunk young men, some with very significant injuries," she said.
"We needed security in the emergency department all night just trying to keep order."
Staff were physically and verbally abused with many patients having to be restrained and sedated so they could be treated.
Issued by the Herald Sun 28th January 2010
http://www.theherald.com.au/news/local/news/general/hunter-police-seek-alcohol-limit-after-violent-australia-day/1735898.aspx
Ban the booze on Australia Day
AN Australia Day alcohol ban would have the backing of Tourism Sunshine Coast.
Russell Mason, the chief executive officer of TSC, said yesterday that the level of violence across the Coast’s public spaces on Australia Day was concerning.
He said an alcohol ban in public places on Australia Day and for other major events should be considered.
“We are trying to promote a family-friendly environment and alcohol doesn’t fit into the mix,” Mr Mason said.
“The vast majority of people at large celebrations on the Coast are well-behaved but there is always a minority that spoils it.”
Coast police responded to 150 calls in two hours on Australia Day afternoon, attending public brawls, lewd acts in front of children and an alleged attack on a senior resident by a 16-year-old boy.
A small number of arrests were made, and police said outbreaks of fights were “sporadic”.
Mr Mason said he spent Australia Day at Mooloolaba Esplanade where “there were heaps of families having a great time and lots of police doing patrols”.
“It would appear the trouble started in the late afternoon, when the family crowds had left,” Mr Mason said.
“People go to these things to have a good time and to celebrate our national day with pride. It’s unfortunate that violent, alcohol-fuelled incidents occurred.”
Issued by Sunshine Coast daily 28th January 2010
http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2010/01/28/tourism-chief-backs-ban-on-alcohol/
Russell Mason, the chief executive officer of TSC, said yesterday that the level of violence across the Coast’s public spaces on Australia Day was concerning.
He said an alcohol ban in public places on Australia Day and for other major events should be considered.
“We are trying to promote a family-friendly environment and alcohol doesn’t fit into the mix,” Mr Mason said.
“The vast majority of people at large celebrations on the Coast are well-behaved but there is always a minority that spoils it.”
Coast police responded to 150 calls in two hours on Australia Day afternoon, attending public brawls, lewd acts in front of children and an alleged attack on a senior resident by a 16-year-old boy.
A small number of arrests were made, and police said outbreaks of fights were “sporadic”.
Mr Mason said he spent Australia Day at Mooloolaba Esplanade where “there were heaps of families having a great time and lots of police doing patrols”.
“It would appear the trouble started in the late afternoon, when the family crowds had left,” Mr Mason said.
“People go to these things to have a good time and to celebrate our national day with pride. It’s unfortunate that violent, alcohol-fuelled incidents occurred.”
Issued by Sunshine Coast daily 28th January 2010
http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/story/2010/01/28/tourism-chief-backs-ban-on-alcohol/
Monday, January 25, 2010
Qld urged to behave on Australia Day
Queensland police will step up patrols on Australia Day to crack down on unruly behaviour, fearing hot temperatures may encourage people to drink more.
Deputy Commissioner Ian Stewart said police would target the consumption of liquor in unlicensed public places and anti-social behaviour in foreshore parks, roads, bus stops and car parks.
"There will be extra overt and covert patrols throughout the day and night with police taking a zero-tolerance approach to people breaking the law and acting in an unacceptable manner," Mr Stewart said.
Despite the increased police presence, Mr Stewart said there is not normally a spike in crime on Australia Day.
"Often it is a very quiet day in terms of arrests," Mr Stewart said.
"Police spend more time actually dealing with the effects of alcohol, in terms of in the parks, trying to make sure people are acting reasonably.
"But it (violence) can happen very, very quickly and that's why we have extra police."
Australia Day is forecast to be fine and hot for most of the state, with temperatures expected to hit 32 degrees in Brisbane, the high 30s in the west and low 30s in the north and central regions.
Mr Stewart said the hot weather was a real concern with fears people will drink more to keep cool.
Motorists are also being urged to take extra care, with three people killed over the long weekend last year.
The week coincides with the end of school holidays and a large volume of traffic is expected.
Meanwhile, there will be extra patrols particularly between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta on the Gold Coast following last year's rowdy behaviour at Burleigh Heads.
Superintendent Jim Keogh said anyone having a beer or a glass of wine in a public place, such as a park or the beach, could face an on-the-spot fines of up to $225.
"The mounted unit will be here, we'll also have the dog squad working with us, there'll be police on Rhino all-terrain vehicles covering the foreshores, so there will be a very strong contingent on the Gold Coast," he said.
"I really do hope people enjoy Australia Day in the spirit of the event and not use it as a vehicle to misbehave."
Issued by Sydney Morning Herald 25th January 2010
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/qld-urged-to-behave-on-australia-day-20100125-mt8y.html
Deputy Commissioner Ian Stewart said police would target the consumption of liquor in unlicensed public places and anti-social behaviour in foreshore parks, roads, bus stops and car parks.
"There will be extra overt and covert patrols throughout the day and night with police taking a zero-tolerance approach to people breaking the law and acting in an unacceptable manner," Mr Stewart said.
Despite the increased police presence, Mr Stewart said there is not normally a spike in crime on Australia Day.
"Often it is a very quiet day in terms of arrests," Mr Stewart said.
"Police spend more time actually dealing with the effects of alcohol, in terms of in the parks, trying to make sure people are acting reasonably.
"But it (violence) can happen very, very quickly and that's why we have extra police."
Australia Day is forecast to be fine and hot for most of the state, with temperatures expected to hit 32 degrees in Brisbane, the high 30s in the west and low 30s in the north and central regions.
Mr Stewart said the hot weather was a real concern with fears people will drink more to keep cool.
Motorists are also being urged to take extra care, with three people killed over the long weekend last year.
The week coincides with the end of school holidays and a large volume of traffic is expected.
Meanwhile, there will be extra patrols particularly between Surfers Paradise and Coolangatta on the Gold Coast following last year's rowdy behaviour at Burleigh Heads.
Superintendent Jim Keogh said anyone having a beer or a glass of wine in a public place, such as a park or the beach, could face an on-the-spot fines of up to $225.
"The mounted unit will be here, we'll also have the dog squad working with us, there'll be police on Rhino all-terrain vehicles covering the foreshores, so there will be a very strong contingent on the Gold Coast," he said.
"I really do hope people enjoy Australia Day in the spirit of the event and not use it as a vehicle to misbehave."
Issued by Sydney Morning Herald 25th January 2010
http://news.smh.com.au/breaking-news-national/qld-urged-to-behave-on-australia-day-20100125-mt8y.html
Pubs baulk at booze ban
CAMPBELLTOWN Council has passed on a police request to pubs and bottle shops to limit alcohol sales on Australia Day next Tuesday but there's no indication they would enforce voluntary restrictions.
The request to members of the Campbelltown Liquor Accord is a bid to cut the alcohol-fuelled violence on the day.
It suggests that they do not sell take-away drinks of more than 4per cent alcohol up to 2pm, and of more than 5per cent after 9pm; that licensed premises ban shots and double-strength drinks after 9pm; and that people be limited to two drinks per purchase for the last three hours of the day.
Campbelltown City Hotel gaming manager Donna Copp said it would not enforce the recommendations.
``I think it's ridiculous,'' she said.
``We won't be doing that because we already practise strict RSA [responsible service of alcohol policy] and we've never had any problems on Australia Day.
``People over the age of 18 are grown adults and we've been told by our customers that if we have these restrictions then they wouldn't come here.
``Everyone wants to make a living.
``We've got food here on the day and we have free water at all times.''
A spokeswoman said Campbelltown Catholic Club would not comment on the police recommendations.
``We've never had a problem on Australia Day,'' she said.
A statewide police operation, Medallion, will operate on Australia Day focusing on public order at events, licensing and traffic and transport management.
People found drinking in alcohol-free zones could cop on-the-spot fines of up to $110.
Detective Inspector George Psaroudis said alcohol was not permitted at Campbelltown's Australia Day events because they will be alcohol-free.
``Drink responsibly and respect each other to ensure that Australia Day is as safe as the new year's celebrations that were held in Campbelltown only a few weeks ago,'' he said.
``Remember that Koshigaya Park Campbelltown is an alcohol-free zone. Treat the day as a great opportunity to come down and share the events planned by the local council with your family.''
Wollongong Council has also warned Campbelltown residents who head to its beaches that its events were also alcohol-free.
Issued my macathuradvertiser.com.au 20th January 2010
http://www.macarthuradvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/pubs-baulk-at-booze-ban/1729511.aspx
The request to members of the Campbelltown Liquor Accord is a bid to cut the alcohol-fuelled violence on the day.
It suggests that they do not sell take-away drinks of more than 4per cent alcohol up to 2pm, and of more than 5per cent after 9pm; that licensed premises ban shots and double-strength drinks after 9pm; and that people be limited to two drinks per purchase for the last three hours of the day.
Campbelltown City Hotel gaming manager Donna Copp said it would not enforce the recommendations.
``I think it's ridiculous,'' she said.
``We won't be doing that because we already practise strict RSA [responsible service of alcohol policy] and we've never had any problems on Australia Day.
``People over the age of 18 are grown adults and we've been told by our customers that if we have these restrictions then they wouldn't come here.
``Everyone wants to make a living.
``We've got food here on the day and we have free water at all times.''
A spokeswoman said Campbelltown Catholic Club would not comment on the police recommendations.
``We've never had a problem on Australia Day,'' she said.
A statewide police operation, Medallion, will operate on Australia Day focusing on public order at events, licensing and traffic and transport management.
People found drinking in alcohol-free zones could cop on-the-spot fines of up to $110.
Detective Inspector George Psaroudis said alcohol was not permitted at Campbelltown's Australia Day events because they will be alcohol-free.
``Drink responsibly and respect each other to ensure that Australia Day is as safe as the new year's celebrations that were held in Campbelltown only a few weeks ago,'' he said.
``Remember that Koshigaya Park Campbelltown is an alcohol-free zone. Treat the day as a great opportunity to come down and share the events planned by the local council with your family.''
Wollongong Council has also warned Campbelltown residents who head to its beaches that its events were also alcohol-free.
Issued my macathuradvertiser.com.au 20th January 2010
http://www.macarthuradvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/pubs-baulk-at-booze-ban/1729511.aspx
Pubs baulk at booze ban
CAMPBELLTOWN Council has passed on a police request to pubs and bottle shops to limit alcohol sales on Australia Day next Tuesday but there's no indication they would enforce voluntary restrictions.
The request to members of the Campbelltown Liquor Accord is a bid to cut the alcohol-fuelled violence on the day.
It suggests that they do not sell take-away drinks of more than 4per cent alcohol up to 2pm, and of more than 5per cent after 9pm; that licensed premises ban shots and double-strength drinks after 9pm; and that people be limited to two drinks per purchase for the last three hours of the day.
Campbelltown City Hotel gaming manager Donna Copp said it would not enforce the recommendations.
``I think it's ridiculous,'' she said.
``We won't be doing that because we already practise strict RSA [responsible service of alcohol policy] and we've never had any problems on Australia Day.
``People over the age of 18 are grown adults and we've been told by our customers that if we have these restrictions then they wouldn't come here.
``Everyone wants to make a living.
``We've got food here on the day and we have free water at all times.''
A spokeswoman said Campbelltown Catholic Club would not comment on the police recommendations.
``We've never had a problem on Australia Day,'' she said.
A statewide police operation, Medallion, will operate on Australia Day focusing on public order at events, licensing and traffic and transport management.
People found drinking in alcohol-free zones could cop on-the-spot fines of up to $110.
Detective Inspector George Psaroudis said alcohol was not permitted at Campbelltown's Australia Day events because they will be alcohol-free.
``Drink responsibly and respect each other to ensure that Australia Day is as safe as the new year's celebrations that were held in Campbelltown only a few weeks ago,'' he said.
``Remember that Koshigaya Park Campbelltown is an alcohol-free zone. Treat the day as a great opportunity to come down and share the events planned by the local council with your family.''
Wollongong Council has also warned Campbelltown residents who head to its beaches that its events were also alcohol-free.
Issued my macathuradvertiser.com.au 20th January 2010
http://www.macarthuradvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/pubs-baulk-at-booze-ban/1729511.aspx
The request to members of the Campbelltown Liquor Accord is a bid to cut the alcohol-fuelled violence on the day.
It suggests that they do not sell take-away drinks of more than 4per cent alcohol up to 2pm, and of more than 5per cent after 9pm; that licensed premises ban shots and double-strength drinks after 9pm; and that people be limited to two drinks per purchase for the last three hours of the day.
Campbelltown City Hotel gaming manager Donna Copp said it would not enforce the recommendations.
``I think it's ridiculous,'' she said.
``We won't be doing that because we already practise strict RSA [responsible service of alcohol policy] and we've never had any problems on Australia Day.
``People over the age of 18 are grown adults and we've been told by our customers that if we have these restrictions then they wouldn't come here.
``Everyone wants to make a living.
``We've got food here on the day and we have free water at all times.''
A spokeswoman said Campbelltown Catholic Club would not comment on the police recommendations.
``We've never had a problem on Australia Day,'' she said.
A statewide police operation, Medallion, will operate on Australia Day focusing on public order at events, licensing and traffic and transport management.
People found drinking in alcohol-free zones could cop on-the-spot fines of up to $110.
Detective Inspector George Psaroudis said alcohol was not permitted at Campbelltown's Australia Day events because they will be alcohol-free.
``Drink responsibly and respect each other to ensure that Australia Day is as safe as the new year's celebrations that were held in Campbelltown only a few weeks ago,'' he said.
``Remember that Koshigaya Park Campbelltown is an alcohol-free zone. Treat the day as a great opportunity to come down and share the events planned by the local council with your family.''
Wollongong Council has also warned Campbelltown residents who head to its beaches that its events were also alcohol-free.
Issued my macathuradvertiser.com.au 20th January 2010
http://www.macarthuradvertiser.com.au/news/local/news/general/pubs-baulk-at-booze-ban/1729511.aspx
Wollongong's $131m pokie habit
Poker machines are continuing to deliver a financial bonanza to Wollongong pubs and clubs, with new data showing that the city's residents lost a whopping $131 million to the pokies last financial year.
Startling figures from the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing show that Wollongong residents poured rivers of gold through poker machines - to the tune of $682 per resident.
In the same period, Shoalhaven residents handed over $60 million to the pokies ($679 per person), Shellharbour lost $36 million ($597 per person) and Kiama residents squandered $7.5 million ($395 per person).
Independent senator and strident anti-gambling campaigner Nick Xenophon has called on the Federal Government to wrest control of the lucrative poker machine industry from the states and territories, which he said raked in money "off the backs of the vulnerable and addicted".
"What's disturbing is that research shows over 50 per cent of pokies losses come from problem gamblers," Sen Xenophon told the Mercury.
This figure is disputed by the gaming industry.
"Pokies are like the electronic locusts of the 21st century in the way they strip money out of individuals and communities," Sen Xenophon added.
The Federal Government is considering a Productivity Commission report which has recommended a raft of measures to curb problem gambling, including imposing a cap on losses and limiting the time people spend playing the pokies.
Its final report is due to be delivered on February 26.
However, an Illawarra club has rejected a key recommendation of the report, that ATMs be banned from gaming venues.
Steelers Club operations manager Luke Barker said problem gamblers would easily circumvent this by taking more money in their wallets.
"It won't solve the problem at all - I think it would be more of an inconvenience for members and guests who want to get money out," Mr Barker said.
Last month, club chairman Peter Newell told a public hearing in Canberra that the Steelers Club and other similar venues would "shut within weeks" if the commission's proposals to limit poker machine revenues were approved.
Speaking in his capacity as ClubsAustralia president, Mr Newell accused the commission of failing to assess the impact of reduced revenue on club employment, charity donations and local economies.
Meantime, Mission Australia has launched a new DVD which sets out to debunk common poker machine myths in the hope of limiting the havoc wreaked by problem gambling.
Manager of counselling services John Brett said the campaign sought to dispel superstitions by gambling addicts that they could beat the pokies.
"Some people believe that if a machine hasn't paid out for a while it's due for a win, or that if you stroke the machine in a different way you will have a better chance of winning," Mr Brett said.
"A lot of people believe a particular machine favours them personally, or they relate to or like a particular machine."
But the cold, hard reality was that poker machine performance was completely random, Mr Brett said.
"There is no way of affecting outcomes.
"And if, like many problem gamblers, you put all your winnings back into the machine, it's a mathematical certainty you will lose everything eventually," he warned.
Gambling counsellors will use the DVD to work with problem gamblers and help them shake their beliefs.
Issued by Illawarramercury.com.au 23rd Janaury 2010
http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/news/local/news/general/wollongongs-131m-pokie-habit/1732061.aspx
Startling figures from the Office of Liquor, Gaming and Racing show that Wollongong residents poured rivers of gold through poker machines - to the tune of $682 per resident.
In the same period, Shoalhaven residents handed over $60 million to the pokies ($679 per person), Shellharbour lost $36 million ($597 per person) and Kiama residents squandered $7.5 million ($395 per person).
Independent senator and strident anti-gambling campaigner Nick Xenophon has called on the Federal Government to wrest control of the lucrative poker machine industry from the states and territories, which he said raked in money "off the backs of the vulnerable and addicted".
"What's disturbing is that research shows over 50 per cent of pokies losses come from problem gamblers," Sen Xenophon told the Mercury.
This figure is disputed by the gaming industry.
"Pokies are like the electronic locusts of the 21st century in the way they strip money out of individuals and communities," Sen Xenophon added.
The Federal Government is considering a Productivity Commission report which has recommended a raft of measures to curb problem gambling, including imposing a cap on losses and limiting the time people spend playing the pokies.
Its final report is due to be delivered on February 26.
However, an Illawarra club has rejected a key recommendation of the report, that ATMs be banned from gaming venues.
Steelers Club operations manager Luke Barker said problem gamblers would easily circumvent this by taking more money in their wallets.
"It won't solve the problem at all - I think it would be more of an inconvenience for members and guests who want to get money out," Mr Barker said.
Last month, club chairman Peter Newell told a public hearing in Canberra that the Steelers Club and other similar venues would "shut within weeks" if the commission's proposals to limit poker machine revenues were approved.
Speaking in his capacity as ClubsAustralia president, Mr Newell accused the commission of failing to assess the impact of reduced revenue on club employment, charity donations and local economies.
Meantime, Mission Australia has launched a new DVD which sets out to debunk common poker machine myths in the hope of limiting the havoc wreaked by problem gambling.
Manager of counselling services John Brett said the campaign sought to dispel superstitions by gambling addicts that they could beat the pokies.
"Some people believe that if a machine hasn't paid out for a while it's due for a win, or that if you stroke the machine in a different way you will have a better chance of winning," Mr Brett said.
"A lot of people believe a particular machine favours them personally, or they relate to or like a particular machine."
But the cold, hard reality was that poker machine performance was completely random, Mr Brett said.
"There is no way of affecting outcomes.
"And if, like many problem gamblers, you put all your winnings back into the machine, it's a mathematical certainty you will lose everything eventually," he warned.
Gambling counsellors will use the DVD to work with problem gamblers and help them shake their beliefs.
Issued by Illawarramercury.com.au 23rd Janaury 2010
http://www.illawarramercury.com.au/news/local/news/general/wollongongs-131m-pokie-habit/1732061.aspx
Silence as pubs shut doors
IT was the end of the "six o'clock swill" that led to Melbourne becoming the live music capital of Australia.
The genesis was in 1966. After almost 50 years, Victoria extended pub closing hours from 6 to 10 o'clock. The "swill" - when men raced to get as drunk as possible after work before closing time - was finally over.
Pubs all over town were left with enormous bars that had been built to cater for speed-drinking sessions every night around dusk when "last drinks" were called by publicans.
"Once they changed the licensing, they had these big, empty bars," Mental As Anything singer Greedy Smith said. "So it was quite easy to go to the publican and say,'Could we play over here and take the door money'? That's how we got started."
Perhaps the first genuine pub rock pioneer about that time was Billy Thorpe, who had just formed a raw band including the loudest guitarist in the nation, Lobby Loyde.
The brash boys known as The Aztecs somehow convinced the operators of a big, but quiet family pub called the Village Green in Mulgrave to let them play. They plugged in a wall of amps and cranked up the volume. It was the start of an unstoppable live music revolution.
The venue quickly became a haven for young music fans. For the first time, rock music was being performed on licensed premises. Alcohol and rock music ... it was a perfect match. The concept rapidly took off around the suburbs.
Pub owners loved it. Pub gigs were cheap to stage, they attracted large numbers of patrons and alcohol sales were always high.
And the musos loved it. Many bands were able to generate fiercely loyal local followings thanks to residencies at pubs such as the famous Station Hotel in Prahran.
"You could play seven nights a week if you wanted to," said Greedy Smith.
The late Billy Thorpe, later recalling the early days, said there was no other town "anywhere on earth" that had as many gigs going on at the same time. And some of the more popular bands played 10 half-hour sets a night at different pubs. They played from Tuesdays to Sundays, every week.
"And all great bands who could really play, not just carry a tune, but play with real individual style that they'd copied from nobody," Thorpe said.
The fans flocked to noisy, hot and usually small and crowded establishments with sticky carpets and filthy toilets where they could hear the best local rock music for free.
In the '70s and '80s, many pubs were renowned for their support of local music. It was in the pubs of Melbourne that AC/DC, Cold Chisel, The Angels, Midnight Oil, INXS and the Divinyls honed their skills.
It was in the pubs that most Melburnians first witnessed the manic arm and skull gestures of Midnight Oil's Peter Garrett and heard the screaming vocals of Jimmy Barnes.
Barnes has said that Chisel would not have survived without the pubs.
It was a simple formula. Once the crowds caused a buzz about an act, the record companies would move in to sign the band.
It was a thriving pub circuit that enabled bands to tour extensively up and down the eastern seaboard from Queensland to Victoria. Legend has it that bands in crowded vans would wave to each other as they passed on the coast road.
The popularity of pub rock even changed the music on the charts. Bands found that simple songs, with easy "sing-along" lyrics, simple choruses and loud snare drums worked best in the pubs. Complicated and long guitar solos, which were not popular with even slightly intoxicated fans, vanished from Aussie rock almost overnight. Some of the pub songs became anthems.
Chrissie Amphlett, lead singer with the Divinyls, said she suddenly found her musical identity after being inspired by Bon Scott's uncomplicated stage presence at an AC/DC pub gig in Melbourne.
The Whitlams started out playing their songs in a pub on Saturday afternoons. Then they scored a Monday night gig and then a Saturday night.
Singer Tim Freedman said live music venues were "almost entirely responsible" for the band's success.
"It was through the vibe and the crowds that we started getting around the country, that radio took any notice of us because we didn't really sound like everyone else," he said.
But the golden age of live music in Melbourne is now apparently over.
The Punters Club is gone. So is the Continental. The beer barns that once had live music every night have almost disappeared.
The beginning of the end was in the mid-1990s with the arrival of the poker machines and noise pollution laws.
For some time now, there has been talk of the apocalypse of the live music scene.
It has increased with the closure (perhaps not permanently) of The Tote in Collingwood and the impending closure of alternative music venue The Arthouse. The operators of the popular live venues say council regulations, a crackdown over liquor-licensing laws and reduced revenues have made business impossible.
A law under the Liquor Control Reform Act, designed to curb alcohol-related violence, requires all venues that host live music to hire licensed security guards after 9pm at a ratio of two for the first 100 patrons and one for every 100 thereafter. It has been rigourously enforced lately, leading some venues to panic.
The blanket rule not only covers venues with big band rooms but also smaller bowling and ethnic clubs with live music.
But there's more to the story than just licensing regulations. Popular music has become fragmented. Dance music and the DJ phenonomen have gradually taken work away from live performers.
There are increased rents in areas that attact big money homebuyers, councils have become tougher about noise restrictions and, of course, poker machines have replaced bandstands in many pubs.
Supporting live music has become less lucrative for some Melbourne venue owners.
Some have tried to save their venues by paying young bands less money - and sometimes nothing at all on the premise that they are at least getting exposure. That becomes dangerously close to exploitation.
And let's face it. Some live music venues are unfriendly and unclean.
Some patrons have clearly had enough.
Dave Gleeson, from The Screaming Jets, said that we could learn from WA, which has no poker machines in pubs.
"It has an extremely vibrant live music scene and out of that has come artists such as Eskimo Joe and Little Birdy. If you put pokies into a place, you take a place away from a young band to hone their craft and perhaps become the next INXS or AC/DC," he said.
Like all businesses, music venues fail when they no longer have public support. In the end, the public has the power.
As one well-known musician said this week: "If all the people who complained about the closure of all these venues actually went out to see a band every couple of weeks, the venues wouldn't be closing down."
Issued by Herald Sun 24th January 2010
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/sunday-heraldsun/silence-as-pubs-shut-doors/story-e6frf92f-1225822857291
The genesis was in 1966. After almost 50 years, Victoria extended pub closing hours from 6 to 10 o'clock. The "swill" - when men raced to get as drunk as possible after work before closing time - was finally over.
Pubs all over town were left with enormous bars that had been built to cater for speed-drinking sessions every night around dusk when "last drinks" were called by publicans.
"Once they changed the licensing, they had these big, empty bars," Mental As Anything singer Greedy Smith said. "So it was quite easy to go to the publican and say,'Could we play over here and take the door money'? That's how we got started."
Perhaps the first genuine pub rock pioneer about that time was Billy Thorpe, who had just formed a raw band including the loudest guitarist in the nation, Lobby Loyde.
The brash boys known as The Aztecs somehow convinced the operators of a big, but quiet family pub called the Village Green in Mulgrave to let them play. They plugged in a wall of amps and cranked up the volume. It was the start of an unstoppable live music revolution.
The venue quickly became a haven for young music fans. For the first time, rock music was being performed on licensed premises. Alcohol and rock music ... it was a perfect match. The concept rapidly took off around the suburbs.
Pub owners loved it. Pub gigs were cheap to stage, they attracted large numbers of patrons and alcohol sales were always high.
And the musos loved it. Many bands were able to generate fiercely loyal local followings thanks to residencies at pubs such as the famous Station Hotel in Prahran.
"You could play seven nights a week if you wanted to," said Greedy Smith.
The late Billy Thorpe, later recalling the early days, said there was no other town "anywhere on earth" that had as many gigs going on at the same time. And some of the more popular bands played 10 half-hour sets a night at different pubs. They played from Tuesdays to Sundays, every week.
"And all great bands who could really play, not just carry a tune, but play with real individual style that they'd copied from nobody," Thorpe said.
The fans flocked to noisy, hot and usually small and crowded establishments with sticky carpets and filthy toilets where they could hear the best local rock music for free.
In the '70s and '80s, many pubs were renowned for their support of local music. It was in the pubs of Melbourne that AC/DC, Cold Chisel, The Angels, Midnight Oil, INXS and the Divinyls honed their skills.
It was in the pubs that most Melburnians first witnessed the manic arm and skull gestures of Midnight Oil's Peter Garrett and heard the screaming vocals of Jimmy Barnes.
Barnes has said that Chisel would not have survived without the pubs.
It was a simple formula. Once the crowds caused a buzz about an act, the record companies would move in to sign the band.
It was a thriving pub circuit that enabled bands to tour extensively up and down the eastern seaboard from Queensland to Victoria. Legend has it that bands in crowded vans would wave to each other as they passed on the coast road.
The popularity of pub rock even changed the music on the charts. Bands found that simple songs, with easy "sing-along" lyrics, simple choruses and loud snare drums worked best in the pubs. Complicated and long guitar solos, which were not popular with even slightly intoxicated fans, vanished from Aussie rock almost overnight. Some of the pub songs became anthems.
Chrissie Amphlett, lead singer with the Divinyls, said she suddenly found her musical identity after being inspired by Bon Scott's uncomplicated stage presence at an AC/DC pub gig in Melbourne.
The Whitlams started out playing their songs in a pub on Saturday afternoons. Then they scored a Monday night gig and then a Saturday night.
Singer Tim Freedman said live music venues were "almost entirely responsible" for the band's success.
"It was through the vibe and the crowds that we started getting around the country, that radio took any notice of us because we didn't really sound like everyone else," he said.
But the golden age of live music in Melbourne is now apparently over.
The Punters Club is gone. So is the Continental. The beer barns that once had live music every night have almost disappeared.
The beginning of the end was in the mid-1990s with the arrival of the poker machines and noise pollution laws.
For some time now, there has been talk of the apocalypse of the live music scene.
It has increased with the closure (perhaps not permanently) of The Tote in Collingwood and the impending closure of alternative music venue The Arthouse. The operators of the popular live venues say council regulations, a crackdown over liquor-licensing laws and reduced revenues have made business impossible.
A law under the Liquor Control Reform Act, designed to curb alcohol-related violence, requires all venues that host live music to hire licensed security guards after 9pm at a ratio of two for the first 100 patrons and one for every 100 thereafter. It has been rigourously enforced lately, leading some venues to panic.
The blanket rule not only covers venues with big band rooms but also smaller bowling and ethnic clubs with live music.
But there's more to the story than just licensing regulations. Popular music has become fragmented. Dance music and the DJ phenonomen have gradually taken work away from live performers.
There are increased rents in areas that attact big money homebuyers, councils have become tougher about noise restrictions and, of course, poker machines have replaced bandstands in many pubs.
Supporting live music has become less lucrative for some Melbourne venue owners.
Some have tried to save their venues by paying young bands less money - and sometimes nothing at all on the premise that they are at least getting exposure. That becomes dangerously close to exploitation.
And let's face it. Some live music venues are unfriendly and unclean.
Some patrons have clearly had enough.
Dave Gleeson, from The Screaming Jets, said that we could learn from WA, which has no poker machines in pubs.
"It has an extremely vibrant live music scene and out of that has come artists such as Eskimo Joe and Little Birdy. If you put pokies into a place, you take a place away from a young band to hone their craft and perhaps become the next INXS or AC/DC," he said.
Like all businesses, music venues fail when they no longer have public support. In the end, the public has the power.
As one well-known musician said this week: "If all the people who complained about the closure of all these venues actually went out to see a band every couple of weeks, the venues wouldn't be closing down."
Issued by Herald Sun 24th January 2010
http://www.heraldsun.com.au/news/sunday-heraldsun/silence-as-pubs-shut-doors/story-e6frf92f-1225822857291
Aristocrat wins case on counterfeit pokies
Australia's largest manufacturer of gaming machines has hit a jackpot in the Federal Court with a win against two rival Sydney poker machine makers it accused of rebirthing and selling imitation Aristocrat machines overseas.
In a civil action in the Federal Court, Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd has been awarded almost $500,000 in damages from the Botany and Mascot based Global Gaming Supplies Pty Ltd and Impact Gaming Pty Ltd, and associated directors Anthony Edward Andrews, Francis George Bernard Cragen and Riad Allam.
Aristocrat, which controls 70 per cent of the Australian poker machine market and is the world's second-largest manufacturer and distributor of the machines, took action in the Federal Court alleging copyright breach of its technology.
The company claimed rebirthed machines produced for sale abroad were made to appear like Aristocrat products.
In delivering his findings in Sydney last month, Judge Peter Jacobson said there was no real question there was a joint venture for the supply of refurbished gaming machines to overseas markets from April 2005 and that large numbers of components from Aristocrat gaming machines had been seized from premises belonging to Global Gaming Supplies.
"The seized materials included counterfeit copies of materials in which [Aristocrat] had the copyright," he said.
"Much of the seized materials consisted of computer hard drives but the materials included certain items of hardware and software which were an important part of the Aristocrat case."
Judge Jacobson found that, among other things, Aristocrat game software had been intentionally burned onto blank erasable programmable read-only memory software, its artwork had been copied illegally and counterfeit Aristocrat compliance plates had been manufactured for export.
"The Aristocrat companies identified 54 transactions of the respondents in relation to 618 Aristocrat gaming machines which they claimed the respondents sold with infringing copies of Aristocrat games and artwork. The total value of the 618 machines according to the respondents' invoices was $1,096,690.
"The Aristocrat companies allege that by 'rebirthing' gaming machines the counterfeit Aristocrat works, the respondents have represented in trade or commerce that the rebirthed machines emanate from the Aristocrat companies and have their approval," he said.
In suing for breach of copyright Aristocrat sought damages of $1.5 million plus court costs but Judge Jacobson said it was entitled to only $498,000 in compensation plus costs.
Judge Jacobson found that the actions of the defendants "demonstrate a cynical and flagrant exploitation of Aristocrat companies' copyright".
Trevor Croker, Aristocrat's managing director for Australia and New Zealand, said: "Aristocrat is pleased with the judgment
Issued by Sydney Morning Herald 24th January 2010
http://www.smh.com.au/business/aristocrat-wins-case-on-counterfeit-pokies-20100123-mrnn.html
In a civil action in the Federal Court, Aristocrat Technologies Australia Pty Ltd has been awarded almost $500,000 in damages from the Botany and Mascot based Global Gaming Supplies Pty Ltd and Impact Gaming Pty Ltd, and associated directors Anthony Edward Andrews, Francis George Bernard Cragen and Riad Allam.
Aristocrat, which controls 70 per cent of the Australian poker machine market and is the world's second-largest manufacturer and distributor of the machines, took action in the Federal Court alleging copyright breach of its technology.
The company claimed rebirthed machines produced for sale abroad were made to appear like Aristocrat products.
In delivering his findings in Sydney last month, Judge Peter Jacobson said there was no real question there was a joint venture for the supply of refurbished gaming machines to overseas markets from April 2005 and that large numbers of components from Aristocrat gaming machines had been seized from premises belonging to Global Gaming Supplies.
"The seized materials included counterfeit copies of materials in which [Aristocrat] had the copyright," he said.
"Much of the seized materials consisted of computer hard drives but the materials included certain items of hardware and software which were an important part of the Aristocrat case."
Judge Jacobson found that, among other things, Aristocrat game software had been intentionally burned onto blank erasable programmable read-only memory software, its artwork had been copied illegally and counterfeit Aristocrat compliance plates had been manufactured for export.
"The Aristocrat companies identified 54 transactions of the respondents in relation to 618 Aristocrat gaming machines which they claimed the respondents sold with infringing copies of Aristocrat games and artwork. The total value of the 618 machines according to the respondents' invoices was $1,096,690.
"The Aristocrat companies allege that by 'rebirthing' gaming machines the counterfeit Aristocrat works, the respondents have represented in trade or commerce that the rebirthed machines emanate from the Aristocrat companies and have their approval," he said.
In suing for breach of copyright Aristocrat sought damages of $1.5 million plus court costs but Judge Jacobson said it was entitled to only $498,000 in compensation plus costs.
Judge Jacobson found that the actions of the defendants "demonstrate a cynical and flagrant exploitation of Aristocrat companies' copyright".
Trevor Croker, Aristocrat's managing director for Australia and New Zealand, said: "Aristocrat is pleased with the judgment
Issued by Sydney Morning Herald 24th January 2010
http://www.smh.com.au/business/aristocrat-wins-case-on-counterfeit-pokies-20100123-mrnn.html
How to deal with binge drinking
BINGE drinking is now a global pastime, but it can ruin your health and your life. Here’s how to stop.
Have you ever had one of those nights when you’ve gulped down too many drinks and are left with a raging hangover and a gaping memory lapse?
Did you promise to behave better next time, only to find yourself lost in a haze of alcohol - á la Lindsay Lohan - yet again?
Even if you lose control just once a month and are sober as a judge the rest of the time, you’re still considered a binge drinker. And unfortunately, you’re part of a growing trend.
Hard-partying rock bands, films stars and football players have helped turn binge drinking into an international – and glorified - sport, aided and abetted by increasingly permissive parents and easy-to-swallow alcopops.
Today, a third of all women and 42 per cent of men admit to binge drinking, and one in five Australians regularly drink to dangerous levels (that’s four drinks in up to three hours for women, and five for men).
Alcohol is the most readily acceptable and accessible drug in the world today and it works wonders on our mood, stress levels and self-confidence. But there’s a dark side too, warns clinical psychologist and binge drinking counsellor Ilan Cohen.
“In my practice I see a lot of people saying, ‘My partner says if I don’t stop drinking, they’ll leave me’,” he says.
“Often people minimise the problem and say, ‘It’s not so bad, everybody else drinks’. Even if it’s infrequent, binge drinking has a big impact. Many people get caught drink driving and lose their license.
For others, alcohol can trigger sleep problems or a depressive episode. It might impact on work performance or lead to domestic violence.”
You might think you’re just letting off steam, but studies show our ability to make good choices diminishes with each drink, and women are at a greater risk of engaging in risky sexual behaviour and up to five times more likely to contract a sexually transmitted infection when under the influence of alcohol.
Drinking can also contribute to unwanted pregnancy, weight gain, premature ageing, cancer, theft and assault. In Australia, alcohol is directly responsible for about 4000 deaths and 50,000 hospital admissions a year.
It’s a sobering thought, but getting your drinking under control is essential for your self-esteem, relationships, career prospects and general wellbeing.
You don’t have to abstain, says Cohen, but you do need to learn how to drink sensibly even when those around you are not. “It takes a lot of what we call skill-building and you have to stay committed to behaviour change.”
Here are some ways to do that.
Get a plan
Before you head out, set yourself a controlled drinking program, suggests Marcantonio Spada in Overcoming Problem Drinking (Robinson).
This might include no drinking before 7pm and two drinks per night (the Australian Drug Foundation recommendation).
“Moderating your drinking is not easy,” says Spada. “If you have used alcohol in an uncontrolled fashion over a long period of time, learning or relearning how to drink in a controlled way will entail applying basic skills that may not be familiar to you.”
Ask your partner or a reliable friend to help keep you on track, adds Dr Susan Nolen-Hoeksema in Eating, Drinking, Over-Thinking (Hachette).
Recognise triggers
Is it your family? Those salty chips? Or the buzz of that trendy bar? A new French study shows even loud music can encourage us to drink more. The key, says Cohen, is to recognise drinking triggers and avoid them; and if you can’t, distract yourself by playing pool, chatting or dancing. Not sure of your triggers? Keep a drinking diary, noting when, where, what and with whom you last drank, and patterns will soon emerge.
Slow down
This is the most effective way to control your drinking, says Spada. “If you are drinking fast you may well be feeling the [effects of the] second drink while you are having your third or fourth. Consequently, you may become convinced it takes three or four drinks to get the effect you like when in reality it does not.”
Fast drinking also builds up your tolerance to alcohol, which exacerbates the problem. Spada suggests quenching your thirst first with a long soft drink, sipping half units, diluting your alcohol and not standing at the bar.
Change your lifestyle
Instead of heading to the pub with mates, meet for a coffee or at the beach instead. And remember, the healthier your lifestyle and the less stressed you are, the less likely you are to over-indulge (research shows highly stressed workers, and smokers, drink more than others).
“It might mean bringing in exercise and managing stress properly,” adds Cohen.
Dig deep
Why did you drink so much last time? Was it because of problems at work or in your relationship? Were you anxious or just bored? You won’t fix the drinking until you deal with the underlying cause, says Cohen.
“You may have depression or anxiety, so what’s needed is a very good assessment of your problems and then help to develop a strategy to stop the binge drinking.” Speak to friends, family, your GP or
a psychologist.
Go without
If you’ve tried to control your drinking before and failed, it may be easier to ban booze completely, says Spada. “Evidence shows that controlled drinking is more difficult than abstaining.” That’s because it often takes just one drink to send your drinking goals AWOL.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a medical condition or a job that doesn’t mix well with alcohol, you should also consider abstaining.
For help, contact the alcohol and drug service in your state or territory or visit www.druginfo.adf.org.au
10 easy ways to drink less
1 Eat a full meal before you drink, and avoid salty snacks that make you thirsty.
2 Decide how many drinks you’re going to have and pace yourself.
3 Sip slowly and put your drink down between sips.
4 Choose drinks that don’t go down too easily and try low-alcohol alternatives.
5 Be aware of the glass size. Some wine glasses hold twice a standard drink.
6 Avoid drinking games and group shouts so you can drink at your own pace. If you can’t, opt for non-alcoholic drinks occasionally.
7 Avoid top-ups so you know how many
drinks you’ve had.
8 Don’t let people pressure you into over-drinking.
9 If a certain person or situation encourages you to over-drink, stay away.
10 Don’t over-stock your bar fridge at home.
Isued by news.com.au 24th January 2010
http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/body-soul/how-to-deal-with-bing-drinking/story-e6frfot9-1225822184894
Have you ever had one of those nights when you’ve gulped down too many drinks and are left with a raging hangover and a gaping memory lapse?
Did you promise to behave better next time, only to find yourself lost in a haze of alcohol - á la Lindsay Lohan - yet again?
Even if you lose control just once a month and are sober as a judge the rest of the time, you’re still considered a binge drinker. And unfortunately, you’re part of a growing trend.
Hard-partying rock bands, films stars and football players have helped turn binge drinking into an international – and glorified - sport, aided and abetted by increasingly permissive parents and easy-to-swallow alcopops.
Today, a third of all women and 42 per cent of men admit to binge drinking, and one in five Australians regularly drink to dangerous levels (that’s four drinks in up to three hours for women, and five for men).
Alcohol is the most readily acceptable and accessible drug in the world today and it works wonders on our mood, stress levels and self-confidence. But there’s a dark side too, warns clinical psychologist and binge drinking counsellor Ilan Cohen.
“In my practice I see a lot of people saying, ‘My partner says if I don’t stop drinking, they’ll leave me’,” he says.
“Often people minimise the problem and say, ‘It’s not so bad, everybody else drinks’. Even if it’s infrequent, binge drinking has a big impact. Many people get caught drink driving and lose their license.
For others, alcohol can trigger sleep problems or a depressive episode. It might impact on work performance or lead to domestic violence.”
You might think you’re just letting off steam, but studies show our ability to make good choices diminishes with each drink, and women are at a greater risk of engaging in risky sexual behaviour and up to five times more likely to contract a sexually transmitted infection when under the influence of alcohol.
Drinking can also contribute to unwanted pregnancy, weight gain, premature ageing, cancer, theft and assault. In Australia, alcohol is directly responsible for about 4000 deaths and 50,000 hospital admissions a year.
It’s a sobering thought, but getting your drinking under control is essential for your self-esteem, relationships, career prospects and general wellbeing.
You don’t have to abstain, says Cohen, but you do need to learn how to drink sensibly even when those around you are not. “It takes a lot of what we call skill-building and you have to stay committed to behaviour change.”
Here are some ways to do that.
Get a plan
Before you head out, set yourself a controlled drinking program, suggests Marcantonio Spada in Overcoming Problem Drinking (Robinson).
This might include no drinking before 7pm and two drinks per night (the Australian Drug Foundation recommendation).
“Moderating your drinking is not easy,” says Spada. “If you have used alcohol in an uncontrolled fashion over a long period of time, learning or relearning how to drink in a controlled way will entail applying basic skills that may not be familiar to you.”
Ask your partner or a reliable friend to help keep you on track, adds Dr Susan Nolen-Hoeksema in Eating, Drinking, Over-Thinking (Hachette).
Recognise triggers
Is it your family? Those salty chips? Or the buzz of that trendy bar? A new French study shows even loud music can encourage us to drink more. The key, says Cohen, is to recognise drinking triggers and avoid them; and if you can’t, distract yourself by playing pool, chatting or dancing. Not sure of your triggers? Keep a drinking diary, noting when, where, what and with whom you last drank, and patterns will soon emerge.
Slow down
This is the most effective way to control your drinking, says Spada. “If you are drinking fast you may well be feeling the [effects of the] second drink while you are having your third or fourth. Consequently, you may become convinced it takes three or four drinks to get the effect you like when in reality it does not.”
Fast drinking also builds up your tolerance to alcohol, which exacerbates the problem. Spada suggests quenching your thirst first with a long soft drink, sipping half units, diluting your alcohol and not standing at the bar.
Change your lifestyle
Instead of heading to the pub with mates, meet for a coffee or at the beach instead. And remember, the healthier your lifestyle and the less stressed you are, the less likely you are to over-indulge (research shows highly stressed workers, and smokers, drink more than others).
“It might mean bringing in exercise and managing stress properly,” adds Cohen.
Dig deep
Why did you drink so much last time? Was it because of problems at work or in your relationship? Were you anxious or just bored? You won’t fix the drinking until you deal with the underlying cause, says Cohen.
“You may have depression or anxiety, so what’s needed is a very good assessment of your problems and then help to develop a strategy to stop the binge drinking.” Speak to friends, family, your GP or
a psychologist.
Go without
If you’ve tried to control your drinking before and failed, it may be easier to ban booze completely, says Spada. “Evidence shows that controlled drinking is more difficult than abstaining.” That’s because it often takes just one drink to send your drinking goals AWOL.
If you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, or have a medical condition or a job that doesn’t mix well with alcohol, you should also consider abstaining.
For help, contact the alcohol and drug service in your state or territory or visit www.druginfo.adf.org.au
10 easy ways to drink less
1 Eat a full meal before you drink, and avoid salty snacks that make you thirsty.
2 Decide how many drinks you’re going to have and pace yourself.
3 Sip slowly and put your drink down between sips.
4 Choose drinks that don’t go down too easily and try low-alcohol alternatives.
5 Be aware of the glass size. Some wine glasses hold twice a standard drink.
6 Avoid drinking games and group shouts so you can drink at your own pace. If you can’t, opt for non-alcoholic drinks occasionally.
7 Avoid top-ups so you know how many
drinks you’ve had.
8 Don’t let people pressure you into over-drinking.
9 If a certain person or situation encourages you to over-drink, stay away.
10 Don’t over-stock your bar fridge at home.
Isued by news.com.au 24th January 2010
http://www.news.com.au/entertainment/body-soul/how-to-deal-with-bing-drinking/story-e6frfot9-1225822184894
ACT now national pokie capital
THE ACT is the undisputed gaming machine capital of Australia, pulling clear of NSW for the number of machines per capita.
The ACT has 5155 gaming machines operating across the territory, meaning there is one pokie for every 68 people putting the territory well ahead of the Australian average of one machine for every 110 people.
While NSW has more machines more than 92,000 its ratio is only one machine per 73.9 people. Western Australia has the lowest density, with one machine for every 1278 people.
The figures place the ACT top of the list in a country that features in the top 10 of the world's gambling nations, alongside Monaco (one machine per 16 people) and Macau (1:31).
Australia holds eighth position in world rankings for both the number of people per machine and number of machines.
The nation has more than 186,000 pokies, representing about 2.4 per cent of world's gaming machines.
While Canberra's cap of 5200 machines represents less than 3 per cent of the national figure, the density has been labelled a problem by the ACT Opposition.
Opposition Leader Zed Seselja accused the Labor Government of having a soft stance on pokies because of it's relationship with the Canberra Labor Club.
Figures from the ACT Gambling Commission show the Canberra Labor Club reported making $553,926 in political donations in the 2008-09 financial year.
The territory's 75 clubs and pubs licensed to carry machines made more than $175million from gaming in the same period.
''Being the gaming capital of Australia is not a mantle the ACT should be particularly proud of,'' Mr Seselja said.
''One of the issues in the ACT is the fact the Governing party for the last eight years has been hopelessly conflicted on the issue of poker machines.
Issued by Canberra Times 24th January 2010
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/act-now-national-pokie-capital/1732530.aspx
The ACT has 5155 gaming machines operating across the territory, meaning there is one pokie for every 68 people putting the territory well ahead of the Australian average of one machine for every 110 people.
While NSW has more machines more than 92,000 its ratio is only one machine per 73.9 people. Western Australia has the lowest density, with one machine for every 1278 people.
The figures place the ACT top of the list in a country that features in the top 10 of the world's gambling nations, alongside Monaco (one machine per 16 people) and Macau (1:31).
Australia holds eighth position in world rankings for both the number of people per machine and number of machines.
The nation has more than 186,000 pokies, representing about 2.4 per cent of world's gaming machines.
While Canberra's cap of 5200 machines represents less than 3 per cent of the national figure, the density has been labelled a problem by the ACT Opposition.
Opposition Leader Zed Seselja accused the Labor Government of having a soft stance on pokies because of it's relationship with the Canberra Labor Club.
Figures from the ACT Gambling Commission show the Canberra Labor Club reported making $553,926 in political donations in the 2008-09 financial year.
The territory's 75 clubs and pubs licensed to carry machines made more than $175million from gaming in the same period.
''Being the gaming capital of Australia is not a mantle the ACT should be particularly proud of,'' Mr Seselja said.
''One of the issues in the ACT is the fact the Governing party for the last eight years has been hopelessly conflicted on the issue of poker machines.
Issued by Canberra Times 24th January 2010
http://www.canberratimes.com.au/news/local/news/general/act-now-national-pokie-capital/1732530.aspx
Booze, surf don't mix this Australia Day
Western Australia Surf Lifesaving Australia President Mark Irwin has urged beachgoers to go easy on the alcohol this Australia Day, as police continue their crackdown on public drinking.
'We all like a beer, and we all like to have a drink with friends, but I think unfortunately ... our culture has expanded, and people think it's okay to do it everywhere,' Mr Irwin told Sky News.
'Maybe it's time to have a look at it and say 'it's not okay to drink out there because problems occur when that happens.'
Earlier this month, WA Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan confirmed authorities had applied for the power to seize unopened alcohol from revellers in a bid to reduce reduce alcohol-fuelled violence on Australia Day.
The new measures will stop short of a 'zero-tolerance' approach, with police having the option of issuing a caution or a $200 fine.
Mr Irwin says an increased police presence on WA's beaches is the right course of action.
'There's a real culture amongst Australians at the moment that it's okay to drink out in public, and it's okay to have a beer down the beach on a Sunday if the sun is out,' he says.
'The problem with that is alcohol and swimming just don't mix.'
Mr Irwin added there had been some instances where crowd behaviour had impacted on WA Surf Lifesaving Australia's efforts to properly patrol beaches.
'Our patrol members can be as young as 13 and 14,' he says.
'And there were instances where they were trying to do real rescues on a big day at Scarborough Beach, and the young girls were getting the rescue tubes grabbed by drunken larrikins in the surf break zone.
'They were getting held onto. They were actually getting dragged under.
'So, there is a real risk to our lifesavers when that sort of behaviour occurs.'
Issued by Bigpond news 21st January 2010
http://bigpondnews.com/articles/AustraliaDay2010/2010/01/21/Booze_surf_dont_mix_this_Australia_Day_419734.html
'We all like a beer, and we all like to have a drink with friends, but I think unfortunately ... our culture has expanded, and people think it's okay to do it everywhere,' Mr Irwin told Sky News.
'Maybe it's time to have a look at it and say 'it's not okay to drink out there because problems occur when that happens.'
Earlier this month, WA Police Commissioner Karl O'Callaghan confirmed authorities had applied for the power to seize unopened alcohol from revellers in a bid to reduce reduce alcohol-fuelled violence on Australia Day.
The new measures will stop short of a 'zero-tolerance' approach, with police having the option of issuing a caution or a $200 fine.
Mr Irwin says an increased police presence on WA's beaches is the right course of action.
'There's a real culture amongst Australians at the moment that it's okay to drink out in public, and it's okay to have a beer down the beach on a Sunday if the sun is out,' he says.
'The problem with that is alcohol and swimming just don't mix.'
Mr Irwin added there had been some instances where crowd behaviour had impacted on WA Surf Lifesaving Australia's efforts to properly patrol beaches.
'Our patrol members can be as young as 13 and 14,' he says.
'And there were instances where they were trying to do real rescues on a big day at Scarborough Beach, and the young girls were getting the rescue tubes grabbed by drunken larrikins in the surf break zone.
'They were getting held onto. They were actually getting dragged under.
'So, there is a real risk to our lifesavers when that sort of behaviour occurs.'
Issued by Bigpond news 21st January 2010
http://bigpondnews.com/articles/AustraliaDay2010/2010/01/21/Booze_surf_dont_mix_this_Australia_Day_419734.html
Gambling addicts losing it all
TASMANIANS are stealing food, nappies and even baby formula as they struggle to cope with gambling addiction.
A shocking new study has found that half of all Tasmanian gambling addicts who committed a crime as a result of their habit were first-time offenders who held senior management positions or positions of trust.
In the past five years, 41 people have appeared in the Tasmanian Supreme Court charged over gambling-related thefts involving $6.8 million.
The largest theft was $4.5 million and the smallest $539.
The cost to the Tasmanian taxpayer to jail the offenders was $3.8 million, or an average of $263 a person a day.
Four cases before the courts also involved drug trafficking in an effort to fund the gambling addiction. Six of the cases involved violent crimes.
Anglicare Tasmania yesterday released the findings of its new report, Nothing Left To Lose, which calls for better consumer protection and new sentencing options for Tasmania's growing number of gambling addicts.
Report author Margie Law said there was a clear link between crime and problem gambling.
Ms Law said gambling was clearly causing ordinary people to do things they would not ordinarily do.
In half the cases between 2004 and 2009, the offender had no previous convictions and had become caught in a gambling web.
"In all 21 cases involving first offenders, the crime was not violent and prior to their conviction the majority of these people were employed and often held positions of trust," Ms Law said.
"Many of them were under stress from work and family pressures and turned to gambling as a form of relief. What they got instead was escalating debt and a prison sentence."
One of the most notable convictions was that of Tasmanian Crown prosecutor Michael Shirley who stole $200,000 in cash, seized mostly from drug dealers, to feed his addiction to Keno.
Mr Shirley was jailed in 2008 and is eligible for parole in March.
The study found that 28 men and 13 women were jailed for gambling-related crimes. Six offenders had dependent children who were most likely forced into foster care as a result of the parents' imprisonment.
Ms Law said the lack of information surrounding crimes linked to gambling needed to be improved by courts to get a true snapshot of the problem.
"The paper does not argue that crimes should not be punished but until public policy truly protects people from an activity that can cause such devastating harm, public policy is tricking people into thinking that gambling is a harmless activity," she said.
"The gambling industry knows how to market its products to encourage people to gamble and keep on gambling."
Federal Group spokesman Brendan Blomeley said new measures had already been introduced to deal with problem gambling as a result of a State Government review.
The Federal Group holds the monopoly on poker machines and casinos in Tasmania.
Treasurer Michael Aird said it would be pre-emptive to legislate for a $1-a-spin bet limit before the Productivity Commission finalised its report late next month.
Issued by The Mecury 21st January 2010
http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2010/01/21/122951_tasmania-news.html
A shocking new study has found that half of all Tasmanian gambling addicts who committed a crime as a result of their habit were first-time offenders who held senior management positions or positions of trust.
In the past five years, 41 people have appeared in the Tasmanian Supreme Court charged over gambling-related thefts involving $6.8 million.
The largest theft was $4.5 million and the smallest $539.
The cost to the Tasmanian taxpayer to jail the offenders was $3.8 million, or an average of $263 a person a day.
Four cases before the courts also involved drug trafficking in an effort to fund the gambling addiction. Six of the cases involved violent crimes.
Anglicare Tasmania yesterday released the findings of its new report, Nothing Left To Lose, which calls for better consumer protection and new sentencing options for Tasmania's growing number of gambling addicts.
Report author Margie Law said there was a clear link between crime and problem gambling.
Ms Law said gambling was clearly causing ordinary people to do things they would not ordinarily do.
In half the cases between 2004 and 2009, the offender had no previous convictions and had become caught in a gambling web.
"In all 21 cases involving first offenders, the crime was not violent and prior to their conviction the majority of these people were employed and often held positions of trust," Ms Law said.
"Many of them were under stress from work and family pressures and turned to gambling as a form of relief. What they got instead was escalating debt and a prison sentence."
One of the most notable convictions was that of Tasmanian Crown prosecutor Michael Shirley who stole $200,000 in cash, seized mostly from drug dealers, to feed his addiction to Keno.
Mr Shirley was jailed in 2008 and is eligible for parole in March.
The study found that 28 men and 13 women were jailed for gambling-related crimes. Six offenders had dependent children who were most likely forced into foster care as a result of the parents' imprisonment.
Ms Law said the lack of information surrounding crimes linked to gambling needed to be improved by courts to get a true snapshot of the problem.
"The paper does not argue that crimes should not be punished but until public policy truly protects people from an activity that can cause such devastating harm, public policy is tricking people into thinking that gambling is a harmless activity," she said.
"The gambling industry knows how to market its products to encourage people to gamble and keep on gambling."
Federal Group spokesman Brendan Blomeley said new measures had already been introduced to deal with problem gambling as a result of a State Government review.
The Federal Group holds the monopoly on poker machines and casinos in Tasmania.
Treasurer Michael Aird said it would be pre-emptive to legislate for a $1-a-spin bet limit before the Productivity Commission finalised its report late next month.
Issued by The Mecury 21st January 2010
http://www.themercury.com.au/article/2010/01/21/122951_tasmania-news.html
Glassing: An Industry Response
In this week's instalment of citizen journalism, Chalk Hotel general manager, Jason Titman, calls on Government to take tough action against individuals who assault staff or other patrons on licensed premises.
“Chalk Hotel’s primary foundation has and always will be the safety and enjoyment of our patrons and staff. I think this is the case for virtually all licensed operators throughout Australia.
Unfortunately there are a small number of individuals in the community who have no respect for other patrons safety or the effort and money venue operators put into their venues. Nor do these anti-social individuals see the current criminal penalties as enough of a deterrent.
The handling of the issuing of Section 98 “Show Cause Notices” to 70 Queensland hotels was an example of some of the worst Government in action.
It is my understanding from the sidelines that the NSW Government has also acted in a very similar and inappropriate manner with respect to this topic. On October 5, 2009 the Premier of Queensland presented to Parliament Legislation which in essence banned regular glass in licensed premises that had experienced a ‘glassing’ on their premises in the last 12 months.
• This Legislation was presented without prior consultation with industry;
• There is no clear definition of what a “glassing” actually is. The Queensland Government can’t even tell operators if bottled products satisfy the definition of safety glass. Not to mention the fact they have spent the past seven years endorsing education campaigns on ‘drink spiking’ encouraging patrons to consume from bottles rather than the traditional open glassware.
• Despite the fact the Law, Justice and Safety Parliamentary Inquiry had not even handed down its interim findings;
• Despite a 190 page Report (partly funded by the Queensland Government) “Understanding Glassing Incidents on Licensed Premises: Dimensions, Prevention and Control” by the Griffith University found that “Glassing assaults in Queensland are rare”.
• The Government legislated to take away the industries right to appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
• Those issued with the Notices were given less than 60 days to comply.
• The Legislation was due to come into effect 1 December, just before the industries busiest trading period.
• It was subsequently established that some venues on the list had not even had a glassing and there were others in Brisbane who had glassings but were not on the list.
• Subsequent action by some operators in the Supreme Court has found the Government acted outside reasonable grounds and without sufficient evidence.
The Chalk Patron Commitment which is placed at each of the hotel's three entrances
Unfortunately, banning glassware in licensed premises will not reduce assaults on licensed premises. ‘It is not the glass that does the glassing’. What next? Are we going to ban V8 Commodores because someone is injured driving one? Ban bridges because some people jump from them? The pendulum has swung too far!
Chalk Hotel together with the rest of the industry want to work with Governments and Police around Australia to ensure our patrons are safe but dealing with the hospitality industry like this is not going to produce the best outcomes for the Community. Management of Chalk also understand everyone needs to consume alcohol in a responsible manner. We believe a higher focus needs to be put on the obligations, responsibilities and accountabilities of individuals and their behaviour and are seeking to:
• Have Government pass a law banning anyone found guilty of an assault on licensed premises for 5 years from entering any licensed premises in Queensland and a minimum fine of $10,000.
• Ensure the Government share this information so that offenders and high-risk patrons are put on a statewide public database to be accessed by all licensed venues.
• Have the industry self regulate around this platform and within 12 months ensure all venues trading post 12am install ID scanners linked to this database.
It is Chalk’s hope that our decision to take civil action sends a clear message to those who condone this behaviour – we will not tolerate this behaviour and if you threaten the safety of our patrons or staff it will result in both legal and civil action being taken. We are hoping that other licensed operators throughout Australia will join with Chalk in encouraging all State Governments to adopt the above three measures and also decide to take civil action against individuals who assault other patrons on their premises.”
Issued by The Shout 18th January 2010
http://www.theshout.com.au/2010/01/18/article/Glassing-An-Industry-Response/XCOIWDEKUE
“Chalk Hotel’s primary foundation has and always will be the safety and enjoyment of our patrons and staff. I think this is the case for virtually all licensed operators throughout Australia.
Unfortunately there are a small number of individuals in the community who have no respect for other patrons safety or the effort and money venue operators put into their venues. Nor do these anti-social individuals see the current criminal penalties as enough of a deterrent.
The handling of the issuing of Section 98 “Show Cause Notices” to 70 Queensland hotels was an example of some of the worst Government in action.
It is my understanding from the sidelines that the NSW Government has also acted in a very similar and inappropriate manner with respect to this topic. On October 5, 2009 the Premier of Queensland presented to Parliament Legislation which in essence banned regular glass in licensed premises that had experienced a ‘glassing’ on their premises in the last 12 months.
• This Legislation was presented without prior consultation with industry;
• There is no clear definition of what a “glassing” actually is. The Queensland Government can’t even tell operators if bottled products satisfy the definition of safety glass. Not to mention the fact they have spent the past seven years endorsing education campaigns on ‘drink spiking’ encouraging patrons to consume from bottles rather than the traditional open glassware.
• Despite the fact the Law, Justice and Safety Parliamentary Inquiry had not even handed down its interim findings;
• Despite a 190 page Report (partly funded by the Queensland Government) “Understanding Glassing Incidents on Licensed Premises: Dimensions, Prevention and Control” by the Griffith University found that “Glassing assaults in Queensland are rare”.
• The Government legislated to take away the industries right to appeal through the Administrative Appeals Tribunal.
• Those issued with the Notices were given less than 60 days to comply.
• The Legislation was due to come into effect 1 December, just before the industries busiest trading period.
• It was subsequently established that some venues on the list had not even had a glassing and there were others in Brisbane who had glassings but were not on the list.
• Subsequent action by some operators in the Supreme Court has found the Government acted outside reasonable grounds and without sufficient evidence.
The Chalk Patron Commitment which is placed at each of the hotel's three entrances
Unfortunately, banning glassware in licensed premises will not reduce assaults on licensed premises. ‘It is not the glass that does the glassing’. What next? Are we going to ban V8 Commodores because someone is injured driving one? Ban bridges because some people jump from them? The pendulum has swung too far!
Chalk Hotel together with the rest of the industry want to work with Governments and Police around Australia to ensure our patrons are safe but dealing with the hospitality industry like this is not going to produce the best outcomes for the Community. Management of Chalk also understand everyone needs to consume alcohol in a responsible manner. We believe a higher focus needs to be put on the obligations, responsibilities and accountabilities of individuals and their behaviour and are seeking to:
• Have Government pass a law banning anyone found guilty of an assault on licensed premises for 5 years from entering any licensed premises in Queensland and a minimum fine of $10,000.
• Ensure the Government share this information so that offenders and high-risk patrons are put on a statewide public database to be accessed by all licensed venues.
• Have the industry self regulate around this platform and within 12 months ensure all venues trading post 12am install ID scanners linked to this database.
It is Chalk’s hope that our decision to take civil action sends a clear message to those who condone this behaviour – we will not tolerate this behaviour and if you threaten the safety of our patrons or staff it will result in both legal and civil action being taken. We are hoping that other licensed operators throughout Australia will join with Chalk in encouraging all State Governments to adopt the above three measures and also decide to take civil action against individuals who assault other patrons on their premises.”
Issued by The Shout 18th January 2010
http://www.theshout.com.au/2010/01/18/article/Glassing-An-Industry-Response/XCOIWDEKUE
Thursday, January 21, 2010
TREASURER MAKING RIDICULOUS EXCUSES ABOUT $1 POKIE BET LIMIT
After Labor Used Majority to Prevent Greens’ Move to Impose $1 Limit Last Year
For Comment: State Parliamentary Offices of the Tasmanian Greens,
The Tasmanian Greens today accused Treasurer Michael Aird of using weasel words to avoid taking responsibility for his decision not to impose a $1 bet limit on poker machines in Tasmania, which would have seen Tasmania lead the way in minimising the social and economic damage caused by pokies.
Greens Gaming spokesperson Kim Booth MP said the Bartlett Government had the perfect opportunity to impose a $1 bet limit last year as part of the Gaming Control Amendment Bill 2009, but instead chose to use its majority in Parliament to prevent the Greens’ attempt to amend the legislation and include a $1 bet limit for pokies.
“Michael Aird’s decision to put the responsibility for bet limits in Tasmania onto the leaders of the other Australian states is ridiculous, and demonstrates his lack of care for the many victims of his poker machine addiction,” said Mr Booth.
“Mr Aird could have changed the bet limit to $1 last year as part of the Gaming Control Amendment Bill 2009, but instead the Labor government used its majority to oppose the Greens’ attempt to impose a $1 limit.”
“Treasurer Michael Aird is hiding his lack of care behind a ridiculous excuse, and he should apologise to Tasmanians, and move to impose the $1 bet limit which has been called for by welfare groups and the Greens since last year,” said Mr Booth.
Issued by greens.org.au 21st January 2010
http://mps.tas.greens.org.au/News/view_MR.php?ActionID=4325
For Comment: State Parliamentary Offices of the Tasmanian Greens,
The Tasmanian Greens today accused Treasurer Michael Aird of using weasel words to avoid taking responsibility for his decision not to impose a $1 bet limit on poker machines in Tasmania, which would have seen Tasmania lead the way in minimising the social and economic damage caused by pokies.
Greens Gaming spokesperson Kim Booth MP said the Bartlett Government had the perfect opportunity to impose a $1 bet limit last year as part of the Gaming Control Amendment Bill 2009, but instead chose to use its majority in Parliament to prevent the Greens’ attempt to amend the legislation and include a $1 bet limit for pokies.
“Michael Aird’s decision to put the responsibility for bet limits in Tasmania onto the leaders of the other Australian states is ridiculous, and demonstrates his lack of care for the many victims of his poker machine addiction,” said Mr Booth.
“Mr Aird could have changed the bet limit to $1 last year as part of the Gaming Control Amendment Bill 2009, but instead the Labor government used its majority to oppose the Greens’ attempt to impose a $1 limit.”
“Treasurer Michael Aird is hiding his lack of care behind a ridiculous excuse, and he should apologise to Tasmanians, and move to impose the $1 bet limit which has been called for by welfare groups and the Greens since last year,” said Mr Booth.
Issued by greens.org.au 21st January 2010
http://mps.tas.greens.org.au/News/view_MR.php?ActionID=4325
Newcastle Residents support alcohol controls on Australia Day
The Coalition of Newcastle Resident groups supports effective alcohol controls on Australia Day to prevent a repetition of last year’s disgusting public drunkenness, violence and anti social behaviour.
The special day’s celebration and family enjoyment should not be spoilt by drunken idiots and yobbos. Many of the people intoxicated last year were under-aged.
Newcastle residents have been working with Newcastle Council to expand and consolidate Alcohol Free Zones (AFZ) and areas.
A comprehensive coordinated plan involving Newcastle Council, Police, OLGR (NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming & Racing), residents, and the Liquor Accord should be implemented to prevent a reoccurrence of last year’s alcohol fuelled violence and anti social behaviour. Most local hotels lifted their game and can again this year play a positive role in condemning alcohol fuelled irresponsible and anti social behaviour.
A strong unified message of zero tolerance must be delivered to the drunken idiots to stay away from public places and not spoil other people’s fun.
AFZs must be effectively enforced and restrictions on the strength of alcohol sold as suggested by OLGR/police is one positive step amongst a number of other measures that should be applied including adequate police resources. Preloading and public intoxication continues to be a problem.
Issued by www.newcastlehunter.com 20th January 2010
http://newcastleonhunter.com/2010/newcastle-residents-support-alcohol-controls-on-australia-day/
The special day’s celebration and family enjoyment should not be spoilt by drunken idiots and yobbos. Many of the people intoxicated last year were under-aged.
Newcastle residents have been working with Newcastle Council to expand and consolidate Alcohol Free Zones (AFZ) and areas.
A comprehensive coordinated plan involving Newcastle Council, Police, OLGR (NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming & Racing), residents, and the Liquor Accord should be implemented to prevent a reoccurrence of last year’s alcohol fuelled violence and anti social behaviour. Most local hotels lifted their game and can again this year play a positive role in condemning alcohol fuelled irresponsible and anti social behaviour.
A strong unified message of zero tolerance must be delivered to the drunken idiots to stay away from public places and not spoil other people’s fun.
AFZs must be effectively enforced and restrictions on the strength of alcohol sold as suggested by OLGR/police is one positive step amongst a number of other measures that should be applied including adequate police resources. Preloading and public intoxication continues to be a problem.
Issued by www.newcastlehunter.com 20th January 2010
http://newcastleonhunter.com/2010/newcastle-residents-support-alcohol-controls-on-australia-day/
Liquor licence fees: increases sting Ballarat businesses
BALLARAT district venues say rises in liquor-licence fees will hurt their businesses and do little to curb alcohol-fuelled violence.
Hotels, bars and even bed and breakfasts have been hit by the increases, which came into effect on January 1.
The changes were introduced by the State Government to curb alcohol-related violence by putting more police on the streets.
Blue Note Piano Bar co-owner Mike Kontor said the extra fees would not address the problem.
He said his venue paid an extra $800 this year for its licence to stay open until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.
"My objection is, what's the point of it? It doesn't stop people getting drunk or binge drinking. They're (the government) just making more money," Mr Kontor said.
"How does a more expensive liquor licence decrease violence?"
He said his bar would no longer trade on Sundays or Anzac Day because the extra fees to open at those times were too much for the business to bear.
Australian Hotels Association country vice-president Ian Larkin said smaller pubs would come under pressure to meet their licence fees, which are due this month.
"Overall, it's still just another expense the hotel has to wear. Most of the smaller venues have been forced to pay about $2000 extra," Mr Larkin said
Under the new risk-based fee structure, those venues that open after 1am pay the highest fees.
Mr Larkin said late-night venues would have to pass the fees on to patrons.
"They've got to get their money back somehow. The only way is to increase their prices or their door charges."
The owner of Daylesford's Forget-Me-Not Cottages, Maggie Nightingale, said her business had opted not to renew its licence, which would have gone up from $97 to $397.
Government spokeswoman Rebecca Harrison said alcohol-related violence was a problem across the state and the increase in fees would help pay for the recruitment of an extra 120 police.
"Before the new fees were introduced, there was a significant shortfall between the revenue generated by fees and the actual cost of regulating and policing licensed venues," Ms Harrison said.
"This shortfall was paid for by the rest of the Victorian community."
Issued by The Courier 20th January 2010
http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/news/general/liquor-fee-rise-takes-a-bite-from-business/1730378.aspx
Hotels, bars and even bed and breakfasts have been hit by the increases, which came into effect on January 1.
The changes were introduced by the State Government to curb alcohol-related violence by putting more police on the streets.
Blue Note Piano Bar co-owner Mike Kontor said the extra fees would not address the problem.
He said his venue paid an extra $800 this year for its licence to stay open until 1am on Friday and Saturday nights.
"My objection is, what's the point of it? It doesn't stop people getting drunk or binge drinking. They're (the government) just making more money," Mr Kontor said.
"How does a more expensive liquor licence decrease violence?"
He said his bar would no longer trade on Sundays or Anzac Day because the extra fees to open at those times were too much for the business to bear.
Australian Hotels Association country vice-president Ian Larkin said smaller pubs would come under pressure to meet their licence fees, which are due this month.
"Overall, it's still just another expense the hotel has to wear. Most of the smaller venues have been forced to pay about $2000 extra," Mr Larkin said
Under the new risk-based fee structure, those venues that open after 1am pay the highest fees.
Mr Larkin said late-night venues would have to pass the fees on to patrons.
"They've got to get their money back somehow. The only way is to increase their prices or their door charges."
The owner of Daylesford's Forget-Me-Not Cottages, Maggie Nightingale, said her business had opted not to renew its licence, which would have gone up from $97 to $397.
Government spokeswoman Rebecca Harrison said alcohol-related violence was a problem across the state and the increase in fees would help pay for the recruitment of an extra 120 police.
"Before the new fees were introduced, there was a significant shortfall between the revenue generated by fees and the actual cost of regulating and policing licensed venues," Ms Harrison said.
"This shortfall was paid for by the rest of the Victorian community."
Issued by The Courier 20th January 2010
http://www.thecourier.com.au/news/local/news/general/liquor-fee-rise-takes-a-bite-from-business/1730378.aspx
Pub patrons now acting responsibly
PUBLICANS and the Coffs Harbour Liquor Accord say they’re doing all they can to curb alcohol-related crime and now it’s up to the public to keep the peace on Australia Day.
And official figures released by the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming prove licensees are indeed doing their bit.
In NSW, the State average number of assaults in licensed premises per 100,000 people, is 102. In the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area, it’s 69.
In isolation, that is a significant result but in the context of having among the worst records in the State for alcohol-related incidents outside of pubs and clubs, it’s even more salient and a big improvement on years past.
“If you look at the alcohol related crime figures and assaults in licensed premises from 12 to 18 months ago, the Coffs Clarence area faired pretty poorly, but the most recent figures have shown an improved result,” Coffs Liquor Accord promotions manager Simon Chladil said.
“Licensees and publicans are going all out to great extremes to try and make people realise we are not going to cop this sort of thing happening in our premises, and there’s some proof that the public is starting to comply with the push towards more responsible drinking.”
In light of binge drinking and violence on the Coffs Creek foreshores last year, local hotels, pubs and clubs have been placed under the microscope this summer and in particular, in the countdown to next Tuesday.
Overall, there were 223 weekend assaults reported in the 143 licensed premises on the Coffs Coast.
Most of the incidents are believed to have occurred in the 24 local venues with allowances to trade late at night.
AT A GLANCE
Assaults in licensed premises: Coffs Harbour 45 incidents or a rate of 69.
Below NSW rate of assaults at 102
Weekend Alcohol Related Assaults: 233 assaults or a rate of 344.
Above state average of 311.
Drink Driving: Coffs Harbour 376 incidents or a rate of 579.
Well above NSW rate of 396.
Risk of Drinking Behaviour
North Coast NSW:
Males 49.1 % 37.2 %
Females 27.5% 27.0 %
Overall 26.9% 25.2%
Rates given per population of 100,000 people.
Issued by Coffs Coast Advocate 21st January 2010
http://www.coffscoastadvocate.com.au/story/2010/01/21/pub-patrons-now-acting-responsibly/
And official figures released by the NSW Office of Liquor, Gaming prove licensees are indeed doing their bit.
In NSW, the State average number of assaults in licensed premises per 100,000 people, is 102. In the Coffs Harbour Local Government Area, it’s 69.
In isolation, that is a significant result but in the context of having among the worst records in the State for alcohol-related incidents outside of pubs and clubs, it’s even more salient and a big improvement on years past.
“If you look at the alcohol related crime figures and assaults in licensed premises from 12 to 18 months ago, the Coffs Clarence area faired pretty poorly, but the most recent figures have shown an improved result,” Coffs Liquor Accord promotions manager Simon Chladil said.
“Licensees and publicans are going all out to great extremes to try and make people realise we are not going to cop this sort of thing happening in our premises, and there’s some proof that the public is starting to comply with the push towards more responsible drinking.”
In light of binge drinking and violence on the Coffs Creek foreshores last year, local hotels, pubs and clubs have been placed under the microscope this summer and in particular, in the countdown to next Tuesday.
Overall, there were 223 weekend assaults reported in the 143 licensed premises on the Coffs Coast.
Most of the incidents are believed to have occurred in the 24 local venues with allowances to trade late at night.
AT A GLANCE
Assaults in licensed premises: Coffs Harbour 45 incidents or a rate of 69.
Below NSW rate of assaults at 102
Weekend Alcohol Related Assaults: 233 assaults or a rate of 344.
Above state average of 311.
Drink Driving: Coffs Harbour 376 incidents or a rate of 579.
Well above NSW rate of 396.
Risk of Drinking Behaviour
North Coast NSW:
Males 49.1 % 37.2 %
Females 27.5% 27.0 %
Overall 26.9% 25.2%
Rates given per population of 100,000 people.
Issued by Coffs Coast Advocate 21st January 2010
http://www.coffscoastadvocate.com.au/story/2010/01/21/pub-patrons-now-acting-responsibly/
Logan dogs project grows
QUEENSLAND’S peak greyhound racing body will amend the development application for its planned Logan track after the State Government announced a major funding boost for the racing industry earlier this month.
Greyhounds Queensland (GQL) welcomed the announcement with part of the $80 million pledge likely to be channelled to its Cronulla Park project, described by Treasurer Andrew Fraser as a “key priority’’.
Previously the track was to be built using only the $10 million compensation the industry received from the closure of The Parklands track on the Gold Coast.
While the amount GQL will receive from the $80 million package hasn’t been determined, the group hopes to proceed with a larger development, including a multi-storey grandstand and two race tracks.
The funding announcement drew strong criticism from State Member for Beaudesert, Aidan McLindon, who said a greyhound racing facility was not right for Logan given the city’s problem gambling issues.
The LNP member said the track, coupled with the proposal to bring 200 new pokies to the city through the Brisbane Lions project, provided a “double whammy for a crippled area’’.
“It’s ridiculous when areas of Logan have some of the highest unemployment levels in Australia. There has to be a direct correlation because it’s also got the highest gambling per capita in the state,’’ he said.
“I certainly don’t have any objection to that form of business taking place but it just doesn’t make sense. You wouldn’t set up a candy store outside a dental clinic.’’
However, State Member for Woodridge Desley Scott said it was a positive for the city to have a more substantial facility.
“I’m not a proponent of gambling at all but I understand a lot of people are interested in greyhound racing and I imagine it will provide a facility that can be used to bring more people in to the area,’’ she said.
“I think people with a gambling habit find a place to gamble wherever they are.
“I don’t think locating a track in Logan will exacerbate problem gambling.’’
Issued by whereilive.com.au 21st January 2010
http://albert-and-logan.whereilive.com.au/news/story/logan-dogs-project-grows/
Greyhounds Queensland (GQL) welcomed the announcement with part of the $80 million pledge likely to be channelled to its Cronulla Park project, described by Treasurer Andrew Fraser as a “key priority’’.
Previously the track was to be built using only the $10 million compensation the industry received from the closure of The Parklands track on the Gold Coast.
While the amount GQL will receive from the $80 million package hasn’t been determined, the group hopes to proceed with a larger development, including a multi-storey grandstand and two race tracks.
The funding announcement drew strong criticism from State Member for Beaudesert, Aidan McLindon, who said a greyhound racing facility was not right for Logan given the city’s problem gambling issues.
The LNP member said the track, coupled with the proposal to bring 200 new pokies to the city through the Brisbane Lions project, provided a “double whammy for a crippled area’’.
“It’s ridiculous when areas of Logan have some of the highest unemployment levels in Australia. There has to be a direct correlation because it’s also got the highest gambling per capita in the state,’’ he said.
“I certainly don’t have any objection to that form of business taking place but it just doesn’t make sense. You wouldn’t set up a candy store outside a dental clinic.’’
However, State Member for Woodridge Desley Scott said it was a positive for the city to have a more substantial facility.
“I’m not a proponent of gambling at all but I understand a lot of people are interested in greyhound racing and I imagine it will provide a facility that can be used to bring more people in to the area,’’ she said.
“I think people with a gambling habit find a place to gamble wherever they are.
“I don’t think locating a track in Logan will exacerbate problem gambling.’’
Issued by whereilive.com.au 21st January 2010
http://albert-and-logan.whereilive.com.au/news/story/logan-dogs-project-grows/
Wednesday, January 20, 2010
Pub patrons don't notice difference in glass alternatives: venues
A major Queensland pub licensee who has switched a quarter of his 110 establishments to glass alternatives as a safety measure, says not one customer has complained.
The state government is encouraging all pubs to move to tempered glass or plastic after a spate of glassings, but has issued show cause notices to 77 venues where there have been repeated attacks.
The smooth transition for the Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group suggests that few, if any, Queenslanders can tell the difference between having a cold one out of a regular glass or tempered glass.
ALH Queensland state manager Trevor Smith said the only downside was a 20 per cent increase in the price per glass.
It now costs about $20,000 to put tempered glasses in each venue.
"While the cost of purchasing tempered is more expensive than normal glass, there has been a decrease in replacement costs as tempered glass lasts longer," he said.
"Besides, price is not a substitute for safety."
Mr Smith said while his pubs have only had about four glassing incidents in the past three years, he felt they had an obligation as a major industry player to lead the way.
"Patrons don't seem to notice they are drinking from tempered glass. We certainly haven't received any comments from anyone," he said.
ALH plans to introduce tempered glass into all of their licensed premises in a staged roll-out.
Minister for Liquor Licensing Peter Lawlor said there was a public misconception that alcohol served in glass alternatives - including tempered glass or polycarbonate plastic - didn't taste as good.
"While it's not mandatory for licensed premises to introduced glass alternatives, the industry is progressing that way," he said.
Mr Lawlor said out of the 77 venues that had received show cause notices, two had been withdrawn, 14 had solicitors in negotiations with the department, and the remaining 61 had been given an extended deadline in February after a judicial review
Issued by Brisbane Times 20th Janaury 2010
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/pub-patrons-dont-notice-difference-in-glass-alternatives-venues-20100120-ml3i.html
The state government is encouraging all pubs to move to tempered glass or plastic after a spate of glassings, but has issued show cause notices to 77 venues where there have been repeated attacks.
The smooth transition for the Australian Leisure and Hospitality Group suggests that few, if any, Queenslanders can tell the difference between having a cold one out of a regular glass or tempered glass.
ALH Queensland state manager Trevor Smith said the only downside was a 20 per cent increase in the price per glass.
It now costs about $20,000 to put tempered glasses in each venue.
"While the cost of purchasing tempered is more expensive than normal glass, there has been a decrease in replacement costs as tempered glass lasts longer," he said.
"Besides, price is not a substitute for safety."
Mr Smith said while his pubs have only had about four glassing incidents in the past three years, he felt they had an obligation as a major industry player to lead the way.
"Patrons don't seem to notice they are drinking from tempered glass. We certainly haven't received any comments from anyone," he said.
ALH plans to introduce tempered glass into all of their licensed premises in a staged roll-out.
Minister for Liquor Licensing Peter Lawlor said there was a public misconception that alcohol served in glass alternatives - including tempered glass or polycarbonate plastic - didn't taste as good.
"While it's not mandatory for licensed premises to introduced glass alternatives, the industry is progressing that way," he said.
Mr Lawlor said out of the 77 venues that had received show cause notices, two had been withdrawn, 14 had solicitors in negotiations with the department, and the remaining 61 had been given an extended deadline in February after a judicial review
Issued by Brisbane Times 20th Janaury 2010
http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/pub-patrons-dont-notice-difference-in-glass-alternatives-venues-20100120-ml3i.html
Liquor laws hang sticky carpet out to dry
New liquor licensing laws aimed at curbing alcohol-related violence in Victoria are having the unwanted side-effect of forcing small venues to close or change the way they do business.
The laws came into effect at the start of the year but have already been blamed for the demise of one of Melbourne's most revered music venues - the Tote Hotel.
The pub closed its doors this week after 30 years at the centre of Australia's underground music scene, its licensees saying the new laws have made it too costly to go on.
The Age's chief music writer, Patrick Donovan, says the closure will hurt Melbourne's vibrant music scene.
"It's a huge blow for Melbourne's reputation as one of the great live music cities in the world," he said.
"The Tote was probably the best rock'n'roll venue, it's a very unique venue."
Mr Donovan says the venue had a distinguished place among Melbourne's rock'n'roll scene.
"This place has 30 years [of history] and you can see it in the carpet, the famous sticky carpet," he said.
"It's a combination of alcohol - some say vomit - tobacco, and it sort of sums up the history of this place."
The Birthday Party, Spiderbait and the Dirty Three became household names to some after treading the infamous sticky carpet of the Tote's band room, along with ARIA award-winning artist Dave Graney.
Mr Graney says the tough new liqour licensing laws show a lack of concern for the music scene.
"I think it's a terrible thing for the Melbourne music scene in general and the Brumby Government should have someone in there with a bit of sensitivity to the music scene," he said.
"If they want to have Melbourne paraded as an artistic centre, I don't know what they are up to.
"They are trying to win a Tidy Town award or something."
The liquor laws which came into effect at the start of the year, mean any venue playing live or amplified music after 1:00am must provide at least two security guards as well as security cameras.
Licensed costs for these venues dubbed "high risk' by the liquor licensing board have also gone up, and with other costs like the cameras, almost permanent security guards and legal fees, venues like the Tote have found it too expensive to continue.
The Tote's licensee, Bruce Milne, says these costs made it virtually impossible to run the venue profitably.
"In the end, the Tote is a commercial business, I make no apologies for that," he said.
"I can't run it profitably under the "high risk" conditions, I can't run it profitably trying to fight liquor licensing, and I can't find a compromise."
Melbourne has seen a boom in late night bars and clubs since liquor licensing was deregulated in the 1990s.
But it's also had a darker side with an increase in alcohol-related violence in the inner city.
The Victorian Consumer Affairs Minister, Tony Robinson, says the liquor laws were introduced in response to this increase.
"The new laws are part of an entire overhaul of our liquor licensing system, and that was announced by the Premier in 2008 as part of a response to an unacceptable rise in antisocial activity," he said.
"A lot of that is related to the operation of licensed premises across the state."
But Mr Donovan says laws mean the Tote is paying the price for inner city violence.
"It's totally unfair, I mean there's no violence here," he said.
"The Tote has been a scapegoat for the violence of the inner city, the King Street beer barns and strip clubs and, for me, that's not Melbourne at all."
What irks the licensees of small bars, pubs and restaurants is that they're now lumped in the same class of venue as the big nightclubs and strip joints in the city that is seen as the cause of many problems.
Jim Pothitos has been running his restaurant at the fashionable end of Melbourne's Chapel Street for 25 years.
He says he had to stop having live traditional Greek music because new laws require him to station bouncers at his front door.
"It's a deterrent, it deters people away from coming into your restaurant," he said.
"Automatically they think that two burly guys standing outside my restaurant would scare people away."
Mr Pothitos says he is unhappy about being bundled in with some of the city's more troublesome venues.
"I feel slightly insulted about that because we are a food premises," he said.
"We have mature people who come in - we do have young people who come in, but they are also mature in their attitude towards food and the responsible drinking of alcohol."
Like Mr Pothitos, the Tote's licensee Bruce Milne argues the lack of violence and police calls to his premises should allow it to be exempt from the same "high risk" category.
"The Tote's licence allows us to open until 3:00am on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, therefore we are high risk," he said.
"And then the conditions apply across the board and that's the problem for us.
"We just would like to argue that... if we've got a proven history of non-violence, we are not a 'high risk' venue and would just like some consideration for that."
But Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson says the liquor laws are justified.
"To suggest that we could only have live music venues that could successfully operate in Victoria by turning a blind eye to necessary conditions on the way in which those premises operated is a dangerous area in which to get to," he said.
The Tote's demise is the latest in a string of closures across the country which has almost silenced live music in the inner city.
Pubs like Sydney's famous Hopetoun Hotel have also been forced to shut as new neighbours refuse to live with loud music into the early hours of the morning.
Many now believe live music venues are facing a slow death.
Wally Kempton, of band The Meanies, says the closure of venues makes life extremely difficult for aspiring musicians.
"[For] a lot of bands, this is pretty much one of the only pubs they can draw a crowd at, with its sort of music that is hosts," he said.
"It's just dire - if it goes unnoticed, then we're stuffed."
Musician Dave Graney says that security companies are the only ones likely to benefit from the changes.
"Venues are being closed down," he said.
"It's a really great time for the security industry but a bad time for musicians."
Mr Robinson says the Victorian Government is not to blame for the decline in music in Melbourne's inner city.
"I don't accept for a minute that the sole outcome of our changes is going to be the diminution of live music in Melbourne," he said.
"There are all sorts of reasons why the provision of music and entertainment across Melbourne has changed over the years."
But Mr Robinson does concede there may be room for compromise as licensees indicate problems with the new system.
"We always knew when we introduced this new licensing system that there'd be some further refinements we could make," he said.
But any changes will come too late to save the Tote Hotel.
Issued by abc.net.au 20th January 2010
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/20/2796875.htm
The laws came into effect at the start of the year but have already been blamed for the demise of one of Melbourne's most revered music venues - the Tote Hotel.
The pub closed its doors this week after 30 years at the centre of Australia's underground music scene, its licensees saying the new laws have made it too costly to go on.
The Age's chief music writer, Patrick Donovan, says the closure will hurt Melbourne's vibrant music scene.
"It's a huge blow for Melbourne's reputation as one of the great live music cities in the world," he said.
"The Tote was probably the best rock'n'roll venue, it's a very unique venue."
Mr Donovan says the venue had a distinguished place among Melbourne's rock'n'roll scene.
"This place has 30 years [of history] and you can see it in the carpet, the famous sticky carpet," he said.
"It's a combination of alcohol - some say vomit - tobacco, and it sort of sums up the history of this place."
The Birthday Party, Spiderbait and the Dirty Three became household names to some after treading the infamous sticky carpet of the Tote's band room, along with ARIA award-winning artist Dave Graney.
Mr Graney says the tough new liqour licensing laws show a lack of concern for the music scene.
"I think it's a terrible thing for the Melbourne music scene in general and the Brumby Government should have someone in there with a bit of sensitivity to the music scene," he said.
"If they want to have Melbourne paraded as an artistic centre, I don't know what they are up to.
"They are trying to win a Tidy Town award or something."
The liquor laws which came into effect at the start of the year, mean any venue playing live or amplified music after 1:00am must provide at least two security guards as well as security cameras.
Licensed costs for these venues dubbed "high risk' by the liquor licensing board have also gone up, and with other costs like the cameras, almost permanent security guards and legal fees, venues like the Tote have found it too expensive to continue.
The Tote's licensee, Bruce Milne, says these costs made it virtually impossible to run the venue profitably.
"In the end, the Tote is a commercial business, I make no apologies for that," he said.
"I can't run it profitably under the "high risk" conditions, I can't run it profitably trying to fight liquor licensing, and I can't find a compromise."
Melbourne has seen a boom in late night bars and clubs since liquor licensing was deregulated in the 1990s.
But it's also had a darker side with an increase in alcohol-related violence in the inner city.
The Victorian Consumer Affairs Minister, Tony Robinson, says the liquor laws were introduced in response to this increase.
"The new laws are part of an entire overhaul of our liquor licensing system, and that was announced by the Premier in 2008 as part of a response to an unacceptable rise in antisocial activity," he said.
"A lot of that is related to the operation of licensed premises across the state."
But Mr Donovan says laws mean the Tote is paying the price for inner city violence.
"It's totally unfair, I mean there's no violence here," he said.
"The Tote has been a scapegoat for the violence of the inner city, the King Street beer barns and strip clubs and, for me, that's not Melbourne at all."
What irks the licensees of small bars, pubs and restaurants is that they're now lumped in the same class of venue as the big nightclubs and strip joints in the city that is seen as the cause of many problems.
Jim Pothitos has been running his restaurant at the fashionable end of Melbourne's Chapel Street for 25 years.
He says he had to stop having live traditional Greek music because new laws require him to station bouncers at his front door.
"It's a deterrent, it deters people away from coming into your restaurant," he said.
"Automatically they think that two burly guys standing outside my restaurant would scare people away."
Mr Pothitos says he is unhappy about being bundled in with some of the city's more troublesome venues.
"I feel slightly insulted about that because we are a food premises," he said.
"We have mature people who come in - we do have young people who come in, but they are also mature in their attitude towards food and the responsible drinking of alcohol."
Like Mr Pothitos, the Tote's licensee Bruce Milne argues the lack of violence and police calls to his premises should allow it to be exempt from the same "high risk" category.
"The Tote's licence allows us to open until 3:00am on Thursday, Friday and Saturdays, therefore we are high risk," he said.
"And then the conditions apply across the board and that's the problem for us.
"We just would like to argue that... if we've got a proven history of non-violence, we are not a 'high risk' venue and would just like some consideration for that."
But Consumer Affairs Minister Tony Robinson says the liquor laws are justified.
"To suggest that we could only have live music venues that could successfully operate in Victoria by turning a blind eye to necessary conditions on the way in which those premises operated is a dangerous area in which to get to," he said.
The Tote's demise is the latest in a string of closures across the country which has almost silenced live music in the inner city.
Pubs like Sydney's famous Hopetoun Hotel have also been forced to shut as new neighbours refuse to live with loud music into the early hours of the morning.
Many now believe live music venues are facing a slow death.
Wally Kempton, of band The Meanies, says the closure of venues makes life extremely difficult for aspiring musicians.
"[For] a lot of bands, this is pretty much one of the only pubs they can draw a crowd at, with its sort of music that is hosts," he said.
"It's just dire - if it goes unnoticed, then we're stuffed."
Musician Dave Graney says that security companies are the only ones likely to benefit from the changes.
"Venues are being closed down," he said.
"It's a really great time for the security industry but a bad time for musicians."
Mr Robinson says the Victorian Government is not to blame for the decline in music in Melbourne's inner city.
"I don't accept for a minute that the sole outcome of our changes is going to be the diminution of live music in Melbourne," he said.
"There are all sorts of reasons why the provision of music and entertainment across Melbourne has changed over the years."
But Mr Robinson does concede there may be room for compromise as licensees indicate problems with the new system.
"We always knew when we introduced this new licensing system that there'd be some further refinements we could make," he said.
But any changes will come too late to save the Tote Hotel.
Issued by abc.net.au 20th January 2010
http://www.abc.net.au/news/stories/2010/01/20/2796875.htm
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