Caxton Street pub fined $6000 for breaching Liquor Act, following venue brawl
A Caxton St licensee was fined $6,000 in the Brisbane Magistrates Court last month, after pleading guilty to two breaches of the Liquor Act 1992.
The licensee Lord Alfred Operations Pty Ltd, trading as The Lord Alfred Hotel, was charged with allowing liquor to be consumed by a person who was unduly intoxicated and failing to provide a safe environment, after a brawl took place at its venue resulting in multiple injuries.
Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) Executive Director, Mike Sarquis said the court outcome was the result of a lengthy and extensive investigation by OLGR.
“These laws are in place to keep patrons and the community safe, but the evidence clearly shows the licensee failed to do so on this occasion,” Mr Sarquis said.
“The outcome serves as a reminder of the importance of ensuring the responsible service of alcohol and that all staff are well-trained in key areas of operating a licensed venue.”
The Magistrate agreed the licensee failed in its responsibilies to patrons, stating he was satisfied the patron involved was unduly intoxicated and that it contributed to the violent incident.
Magistrate Quinn said that while the licensee had some training manuals and a Risk-assessed management plan (RAMP), its efforts to maintain a safe venue did not go far enough.
The hefty fine was an unwanted Christmas gift for the licensee. No conviction was recorded.
Mr Sarquis thanked the Queensland Police Service for their prompt response to the incident and for reporting the details to OLGR, which resulted in the investigation.
“Our staff work closely with Police to ensure the safety of patrons and staff, in and around our Safe Night Precincts, and licensed venues,” he said.
“Our strong partnership means that we are able to effectively resolve these breaches, and I’d like to thank QPS for their assistance in this case.”
Mr Sarquis said that while venues had a responsibility to keep patrons safe, it was important for everyone to look after their mates and encourage friends to drink responsibly.
“If a friend is drinking too much or too quickly, encourage them to slow down, offer them a glass of water and help them get home safely. That way everyone can enjoy a safe night out,” he said.
For more information on the responsibilities of licensees, visit www.business.qld.gov.au/liquor-gaming.
Media enquiries: HPRmedia@justice.qld.gov.au