DATA from the Alcohol Action in Rural Communities (AARC) project indicate there is a peak in alcohol-related malicious damage incidents and assaults in Inverell in August, with the second weekend being particularly problematic.

Data for 2001-2007 clearly show this weekend, is high risk for alcohol-related crime. Stephanie Love, research officer of AARC, said an estimated average of two malicious damage incidents and two assaults occur on this weekend across 2001-2007, both of which are alcohol-related.

Since research evidence shows that the most effective approach to reducing alcohol harm is for a number of key community groups to work together, police, local council, licensees and local media will be engaged in a co-operative effort this weekend.

Specifically, Inverell Police have agreed to increase visible policing, mayor Barry Johnston, has written to hotels, clubs, and bottle shops in Inverell requesting that they be extra vigilant in their responsible service of alcohol and to actively liaise with police and local media are raising awareness of this problematic weekend.

This is the third time the strategy has been implemented in Inverell for targeting high-risk weekends.

The most recent weekend targeted in late July resulted in an average cost savings in Inverell of $22,103 and $13,996 for assaults and malicious damage, respectively.

Sergeant Darren Williams agrees this coming weekend is a prime opportunity to target alcohol-related harm.

“We will be prioritising high visibility policing this weekend, in and around licensed premises and alcohol free and prohibited zones,” Sgt Williams said.

“I stress that it is important that Inverell residents who do decide to drink on this weekend do so responsibly and have pre-organised a safe way to get home.”

Inverell RSM Club licensee Tim Palmer said tackling harms associated with excessive alcohol consumption this weekend is important.

“We are grateful for support from local police and Inverell Shire Council in helping us increase safety at this high risk time, as the security and enjoyment of our patrons is always a priority for us,” he said.

Cr Johnston said it was also important that the community was aware of the high rates of alcohol-related crime that have occurred on this weekend.

“So if you are drinking this weekend, it is important that you take responsibility for your safety, and the safety of others,” he said.