Maroochydore licensee fined for obstructing investigator
A 37-year-old female restaurant licensee was fined $3,000 for obstructing a compliance officer from the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) when asked to turn their music down.
Commissioner for Liquor and Gaming Ms Victoria Thomson said the compliance officer visited the venue on 7 September 2019, and found their entertainment exceeded the noise level authorised on their liquor licence.
“When our officer introduced himself as an authorised investigator to the licensee and explained his concerns, the licensee verbally abused him and later pushed the officer towards the exit,” Ms Thomson said.
“The officer then approached the approved manager, but the licensee instructed him to not answer the officer’s questions, before taking him away to prevent further questioning.
“As the officer’s safety had been compromised, he had to then seek assistance from the Queensland Police Service to complete the inspection and questioning.
“The licensee pleaded guilty and was charged with two counts of obstructing an investigator under the Liquor Act 1992 in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court last Thursday.”
Ms Thomson said the magistrate outlined the licensee’s behaviour was demeaning and humiliating to inspectors and completely unnecessary.
“While no conviction was recorded, the licensee was informed that if she came before the court again it was likely a conviction would be recorded and this may result in her losing her liquor licence,” she said.
“I do not tolerate any assault, abuse or intimidation against any officer and am extremely pleased with the court outcome.
“Achieving industry compliance is a team effort, and we rely strongly on industry to work with us, not against us.”