MacGregor karaoke bar fined $20k for multiple breaches of Liquor Act
A MacGregor karaoke bar licensee has been fined $20,000 in the Holland Park Magistrates Court for multiple offences under the Liquor Act 1992.
On Thursday, 16 January 2020, Ausin International Group Pty Ltd, trading as Wynners Karaoke Lounge, pleaded guilty to 10 offences committed between October 2018 and April 2019. Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) Executive Director Mike Sarquis, said the list of charges displayed a lack of care for patrons and a disregard for the law.
“Our investigators inspected the premises multiple times during the investigation and found that Wynners Karaoke Lounge continued to breach the Liquor Act 1992,” Mr Sarquis said.
The offences included:
- supplying liquor to a person who was showing very clear signs of undue intoxication and other unacceptable liquor service practices
- failing to provide a safe environment and preserve amenity
- allowing liquor to be consumed on the licensed premises at an unauthorised time, and failing to comply with conditions of a licence.
Mr Sarquis said the offences put the safety of patrons and staff at risk.
“The offences are significant – I’m pleased with the outcome of the hearing and look forward to seeing the licensee making important changes to their business operations,” he said.
“These laws are in place to minimise the risk of alcohol-related harm for members of the public and the community, but it’s disappointing that some choose not to follow the law.
“Licensees have an obligation to adhere to liquor regulations, and it’s their responsibility to ensure the safety of their patrons.”
Mr Sarquis welcomed questions from any licensees who were unclear of their licence conditions or obligations under the Liquor Act.
“Any licensee that needs clarification in relation to what their licence allows them to do, and what is acceptable under the Act, can get in touch with OLGR,” he said.
“Our compliance officers are here to work with licensees and their staff to minimise the potential for alcohol abuse and misuse, and the associated effects to the amenity and safety of the community.”
Queries to OLGR can be directed to liquorcompliance@justice.qld.gov.au or call 13 74 68.
Media enquiries: HPRmedia@justice.qld.gov.au