CHANGES to South Australia’s Liquor Licensing laws were canvassed at Wattle Range Clubs and Venues forum held last week.
Around 45 people from licensed sporting clubs, recreational groups and businesses attended the Wednesday event, with representatives from Consumer and Business Services, Clubs SA and police addressing the crowd.
Consumer Business Service licences general manager John Doran outlined the new changes, which include the development of a floor space requirement to mitigate overcrowding in licensed venues.
Mr Doran said the service was working with Clubs SA to develop the methodology.
He said the new club licence category also meant a club could seek club event endorsement for onsite club activities which are outside the licensed area.
Clubs SA membership manager Chris Carter outlined a range of updates for clubs, including the ability to have extend standard trading hours and the removal of designated dining and drinking areas.
She said minors could be on the premises until 2am if they were in the company of a responsible adult.
All club committee members are now the licensees and the club board is the custodian of the liquor licence.
Wattle Range Council communications officer Megan Tilley and economic development director Roger Babolka spoke about the importance of marketing themselves and community engagement to attract membership and
sponsorship.
In regards to grants, Mr Babolka recommended applicants provide a clear budget and business plan when seeking support.
Limestone Coast Police Sergeant Andy Stott spoke about how to safely managed aggressive or intoxicated patrons.
Sgt Stott said club members should try to keep themselves safe at all costs and recommended dialling police even before violence has occurred if the incident appears as if it could escalate.
“Police can charge people for offensive phone calls, assault, fear of violence and conditional or direct threats against a person,” Mr Stott said.
He said club members should try to remain calm and put a physical barrier between themselves and the problematic patron before police arrive.
