Liquor & Gaming NSW announced today that it will be sending inspectors to licensed venues in the state’s snowy region this long-weekend.
Inspectors will be ensuring that on-snow bars, hotels and motels are maintaining proper measures for COVID safety and responsible service of alcohol.
Liquor & Gaming NSW director of compliance Darren Duke said venues in the Snowy Mountains region are preparing for a spike in trade this upcoming alpine season and must ensure patron safety.
“The mountains are already blanketed with snow and, with the official ski season launch this long-weekend, we are ensuring all on-snow licensed venues know their responsibilities when it comes to COVID and alcohol safety,” Duke said.
“Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors will be visiting 22 on-snow hotels, motels and bars this weekend, with a focus on ensuring patrons sign-in with the Service NSW QR Code and adhere to social distancing requirements.”
Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors will conduct targeted operations in Jindabyne, Thredbo and Perisher to check venues are complying with legislative requirements relating to: COVID QR code sign in; patron behaviour and intoxication levels; undesirable liquor promotions and activities; compliance with licence conditions; responsible service of alcohol and responsible conduct of gambling accreditation; and prevention of alcohol sales to minors.
Duke said while NSW venues have enjoyed an extended streak of zero locally acquired COVID-19 cases state-wide, it is no time to be complacent after the recent Victorian outbreak.
“At this stage of the pandemic there is simply no excuse for not complying with the check-in requirements. Businesses must be vigilant as this data will be vital in contact tracing if NSW experiences an outbreak like Victoria,” he said.
“Inspections relating to the responsible service of alcohol and responsible conduct of gambling accreditation, along with general compliance audits will be conducted making sure venues have a good understanding of their responsibilities.”
The Snowy Mountains Liquor Accord, which includes 40 representatives from venues, police, Liquor & Gaming NSW and stakeholders, met earlier this month to ensure a coordinated effort for a safe and successful ski season.
“The annual snow season provides great economic benefits for the local community and Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors will be visiting again throughout the season. It’s in everyone’s best interests for all venues to ensure patron safety,” Duke added.
Photo: Banjo Paterson Inn Facebook.