Fitzroy Crossing grog ban benefits offset gripes
Elizabeth Gosch; 21/5/08
The ban on full-strength takeaway alcohol at Fitzroy Crossing has been extended for a further 12 months, despite criticism from local residents who don’t see themselves as problem drinkers. West Australian director of liquor licensing Barry Sargeant said the social and health benefits delivered during the six-month trial - introduced at the request of local indigenous women - far outweighed the inconvenience to some residents of the Kimberley town. “The fact there have been no accidental alcohol-related deaths in Fitzroy Crossing since October 2007, which I understand is unusual for the wet season, is a very relevant and motivating factor,” Mr Sergeant said in his decision to extend the ban to next May. “There has also been a marked decrease in the total number of road crashes.”
See: http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,23733054-5013404,00.html
Tags: Aboriginal, Australia, Drugs