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Online Training for the Hospitality Industry

Responsible Service of Alcohol and Responsible Service of Gambling for workers in the hospitality and gaming industries are more than just a legal requirement, they help workers to perform their jobs in a socially responsible manner. This is such an important issue at present, with the number of people suffering from alcohol and gambling issues soaring.

Anyone beginning work in a licenced venue anywhere in Oz, whether they are directly serving alcohol or not needs to undergo Responsible Service of Alcohol Training. Employees working in venues where pokies or other gambling is taking place must undergo Responsible Service of Gambling.

Fortunately people beginning work in either industry do not need to undergo costly, time consuming face-to-face classes. Both the RSA and RSG courses are available online. This is particularly beneficial for people in the hospitality industry because it means you have time to concentrate on things and hone other skills needed for the job.

Both courses can be completed online, from the convenience of your home or office, either in one sitting or over a period of chunks of time. So the power is in your hands to complete the course when and where it suits you, without causing interruption to your daily life.

Recently and particularly in Oz online training has become the most popular form of adult learning across all sectors. Despite this growing popularity there some people who are more comfortable with the familiar, in other words because they are used to traditional classroom environment learning, this is what they stick to. But online training offers workers a number of benefits which they cannot get from traditional ways of learning and it is worth while exploring this option before writing it off completely and opting for the old-fashioned form of learning.

It is important that employees within the hospitality industry involved with serving alcohol are well aware of their responsibilities in terms of Responsible Service of Alcohol, not only to avoid fines, potential job loss and alcohol fuelled incidents but also to ensure that they are not contributing to problematic alcohol consumption.

The RSG certificate helps workers in the gambling industry develop the skills and knowledge required to detect and assist a problem gambler if and when necessary. Therefore by law you will need RSG training to work in a pub or hotel where pokies are present or in a casino. Enabling you to perform your work in a socially responsible manner is the primary concern of the RSG certificate, and now that it is available online, there is no excuse.

It is also an excellent way of increasing your skills base if you are seeking a new job or new career. Workers in the hospitality industry are enjoying lucrative salaries and benefits, especially since shortages in the industry have driven up salaries and the demand for skilled labour.

Complete your RSA Course Online here

#Responsible Service of Alcohol #Online Training #Hospitality Industry

Half of Female Binge Drinkers Continue during Pregnancy

A rather concerning revelation has made regarding female binge drinkers according to an Australian Study. The study found that more than half of the women who binge drink will continue to do so during pregnancy. The study also found that only about one in five women actually abstained from alcohol during pregnancy as suggested.

The study which included 1577 female respondents who drank alcohol before they became pregnant found that most didn’t alter their drinking habits after conception.

The researchers from the University of Newcastle found that 55 per cent of women who made binge drinking a habit continued to do so while pregnant.

Binge drinkers include those who have more than 5 drinks in a single sitting. Of these binge drinkers only 29 per cent cut down on their drinking during pregnancy and an even smaller group 16 per cent stopped drinking altogether as health experts warn expectant mothers to do.

These are some of the other findings of the study:

Only 16 per cent of women who are weekly drinkers quit altogether while pregnant.

It found 44 per cent of weekly drinkers maintained their drinking while pregnant, 39 per cent reduced their drinking and 16 per cent quit altogether.

Women who reported both binge and weekly drinking were the most likely to reduce their drinking. Of that group 50 per cent cut back, 37 per cent maintained their drinking and 13 per cent abstained while pregnant.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/health/more-than-50-per-cent-of-women-who-binge-drink-continue-the-practice-during-pregnancy-study-finds-20140128-31kt3.html#ixzz2u2xtJ0Ph

It is sad that National Health and Medical Research Council guidelines recommend that pregnant women abstain completely from alcohol when pregnant, trying to get pregnant or are breastfeeding, yet many don’t follow these guidelines, despite the potential threats to the baby.

In the past the guidelines recommended that women who are pregnant stick to no more than 2 drinks a day and less than 7 drinks a week when pregnant however these guidelines were changed in 2009. Experts say the exact amount of alcohol it takes to cause damage to the unborn baby is unknown which is why they suggest women abstain completely because even one glass may be dangerous.

What the experts do know is that alcohol use during pregnancy is known to have detrimental effects on the baby including foetal alcohol spectrum disorders.

Researchers involved in this study said that their results proved that there is a need for a plan to reduce prenatal alcohol consumption. In other words expectant mothers need to be educated about the risks and should address risky behaviour like binge drinking before they even conceive.

According to the researchers, binge drinkers had the least education, this excerpt from an article on Smh.com.au explains,

''These women may require a more targeted intervention aimed at increasing education and motivating change in alcohol use to achieve abstinence or at the very least a reduction of binge drinking in response to pregnancy,'' the researchers said.

Experts have previously called for research into the effects of low to moderate drinking on the unborn child, arguing that women were confused by inconsistent messages about its harms.

Read more: http://www.smh.com.au/national/health/more-than-50-per-cent-of-women-who-binge-drink-continue-the-practice-during-pregnancy-study-finds-20140128-31kt3.html#ixzz2u2xtJ0Ph

#Pregnancy #Binge Drinkers #Binge drinking

Gladstone’s New Youth Alcohol Education Service to start next year

A new, much needed youth alcohol education service will be launched in Gladstone next year. In fact Gladstone will be the first to get the service which is expected to be rolled out depending on the success of the service initially.

The pilot program called “GladstoneCares” is a new prevention program aimed at educating parents and young people about the dangers of binge drinking.

Gladstone will also get the Lives Lived Well counselling service, an initiative by the Alcohol and Drug Foundation Queensland to help overcome the troublesome drinking culture in Gladstone.

3 Gladstone counsellors have also been handpicked for the program which will be launched in January next year.

The excerpt below was taken from a post on Gladstone Observer.com.au

The prevention programs come off the back of alarming state-wide increases to alcohol related hospitalisations, with 155 intoxicated people taken to Gladstone Hospital in the past 12 months.

A report by the Foundation of Alcohol Research and Education revealed a 57% increase in the number of alcohol hospitalisations across the state between 2002 and 2012.

Last year, 91,783 Queenslanders were taken to hospital emergency departments for alcohol related illnesses.

Queensland Ambulance Service Gladstone officer in charge Ron Gibson said he had noticed a difference in drinking behaviours around town.

"In recent times when we have been called out, we have noticed a slight increase especially on Friday, Saturday and Sunday nights," Mr Gibson said.

"But would I say there has been a dramatic increase? Probably not."

Source: http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/binge-drinking-dangers-targeted/1970143/

According to a spokesperson for the Lives Lived Well program, Gladstone was chosen to conduct the pilot project in because it has a large demographic of young people and a large fly-in, fly-out workforce which are also the demographic most at risk as research shows this lifestyle can contribute to a tendency to abuse and misuse alcohol and drugs.

It is important to remember that youth in particular are falling victim to alcohol fuelled mishaps, violence and health issues associated with excessive consumption and binge drinking in general.

The problem with teenage drinkers is that more often than not teenagers are not mentally or emotionally prepared to handle the consequences of alcohol or peer pressure. This causes them to drink excessively because as a teen, fitting it and being “cool” is often more important than being responsible.

Binge drinking has become an overwhelming problem among the youth of many communities around Oz and this culture of acceptable binge drinking is one that is problematic and needs to be addressed if binge drinking among the youth is to be overcome.

Sadly statistics show that parents are the primary source of alcohol for teenagers. As parents if you are going to provide your kids with alcohol, you need to ensure that you do so in moderation, for their own safety – this is where initiatives such as GladstoneCARES are much needed and can be of particular benefit.

#Alcohol Education Service #Alcohol #GladstoneCares #Binge drinking

Experts Want Alcohol Awareness Education for Primary Schools

Experts gathered at a meeting in Warrnambool are calling for alcohol awareness classes to be taught in south-west primary schools in order to tackle the problem of underage drinking.

Deakin University’s Professor John Toumbourou conducted surveys at bottle shops around Warrnambool to monitor the sale of alcohol to underage buyers. Professor Toumbourou said that classes administered to primary school classes will help a generation avoid drinking during their teenage years.

We do have some work that’s done in primary schools but it’s not very effective according to Professor Toumbourou. As he explained this primary school education must be backed by information to parents which is not happening. This is significant because statistics show that most of the young people that are drinking underage are being supplied alcohol by parents and other adults in their lives.

The professor suggested introducing the classes in primary school and repeating them at secondary level. As he explained most alcohol is being provided by parents of teens and according to evidence from school surveys of 30 per cent of young people in grade six in the community use alcohol- according to data from 2006. While this number has come down slightly, it is still high and parents obviously also need education.

Professor Toumbourou went on to explain, according to an article on www.standard.net.au:

“I think we need to plan on those younger age groups because the problem has crept into younger age groups. You need to have education but you also need to deal with the actual law.

“The law says that adults shouldn’t sell or supply alcohol and that is still happening.”

Alcohol education is traditionally carried out in years eight and nine at secondary school.

The meeting of experts at Great South Coast Medicare Local heard the south-west has one of the state’s highest underage drinking rates.

South West Healthcare’s Dr Daryl Pedler said attention was still fixated on dealing with alcohol at emergency stages in adults.

“We really are dealing only with the people at the far end of the spectrum,” Dr Pedler said.

Source: http://www.standard.net.au/story/1877028/experts-call-for-primary-age-alcohol-warnings/?cs=72

The experts pointed out that what is required is a gradual cultural change around alcohol which we should approach similarly to how the tobacco problem was approached.

Another expert, Geoff Soma, the director of Western Region Alcohol and Drug Centre explained that we should try expanding alcohol awareness in year six on a trial basis.

Mr Soma went on to explain that this approach can be done as a trial first and then introduce it to an educational year. Thereafter we should follow up as to whether the approach made any significant impact, especially because the current system is not working.

The post goes on to explain:

But Warrnambool Primary School principal Peter Auchettl dismissed the idea.

“In our particular setting in our school with our students I wouldn’t see a need to include it in the curriculum,” Mr Auchettl said.

“At the end of the day it’s not our decision. If it is deemed necessary...then it would have to come from central office.”

Source: http://www.standard.net.au/story/1877028/experts-call-for-primary-age-alcohol-warnings/?cs=72

While education is key to changing the culture of drinking and the particularly problematic culture of binge drinking among teenagers, RSA staff must never forget their role in tackling this problem. Servers of alcohol must enforce RSA regulation including not serving alcohol to anyone who looks underage and is unable to produce an ID.

#Alcohol Awareness Education #Alcohol #alcohol warnings

City of Darwin Pushes Alcohol Testing for Workers

The City of Darwin Council workers may be subject to random drug and alcohol testing. Corporate services manager, Diana Leeder was quoted as saying a scheme is now being considered for the council of Darwin’s 300 strong workforce, following in the footsteps of other municipal bodies.

According to Leeder the details are still at the draft stage but the idea is to make sure that people’s private lives are not affecting their work performance negatively. This step is an indication of the widespread problem of alcohol misuse which is having an effect on many facets of society.

Currently the council is reviewing a fitness for work policy and procedure related to alcohol which the council says is more about individual’s health and safety in the workplace and their “fitness” to undertake certain work, which may be jeopardised if they are under the influence of drugs.

Leeder explained that the idea will probably only become policy after the end of the year although elected council members and the Lord Mayor will not have to submit to any drug and alcohol testing, only employees will.

Check out Responsible Service of Alcohol Progam course FAQ's here.

Alcohol Update: City of Darwin Pushes Alcohol Testing for Workers

#Alcohol Update #Alcohol #Alcohol Testing

Can Music Trigger Alcohol Cravings?

Does listening to your favourite song trigger alcohol cravings in you? Then you aren’t alone apparently.

According to a Queensland University psychologist, Dr Genevieve Dingle music has the ability to cue strong memories and for people in rehabilitation those memories can be linked to substance abuse and this can stir up new cravings in the person.

According to Dr Genevieve Dingle, “COLD Chisel can trigger booze cravings, Katy Perry may make you want to pop a pill, Lady Gaga might do both and a house music memory can create a urge for ecstasy.”

Source: http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/music-can-trigger-cravings-for-drugs-or-alcohol-study-finds/story-fniym874-1226768247016

Dr Dingle is expected to present her research at the Australasian Professional Society on Alcohol and other Drugs conference showing the strong link between music and drug and alcohol abuse and how to curb it.

Patients in rehab who are undergoing treatment for addictions are the most susceptible to these music induced cravings as songs have the ability to tag at the emotions and trigger cravings which can trigger further abuse. She explained that while the music is not bad, the music is a memory signal which can trigger strong emotional memories which trigger certain behaviours.

The article on News.com.au goes on to explain:

"It is hard to name a band or genre because everyone is an individual but with rehab patients it can strongly bring associations of times they were abusing, whether it be Cold Chisel with alcohol or club music with ecstasy, and that can trigger more abuse," she said.

"It is an emotional response. Music can trigger strong emotional memories of things like a ski trip, school camp or a break-up. The music is not bad in itself, but its memories can be a signal.

"Lyrics are also mechanisms - for example Cheap Wine or Cocaine evoke rituals around substances and people have said it has been a trigger to relapse."

Source: http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/music-can-trigger-cravings-for-drugs-or-alcohol-study-finds/story-fniym874-1226768247016

The research is significant because it can help people become aware of what songs are their triggers and avoid these cravings.

A tool that may help in this regard is being developed by Queensland University in the form of a “mood genie” app where people can detail what emotions are triggered by songs and genres. People who are more aware of music and what it arouses in them, for example cravings, anger, peace etc. will be better able to control their moods and emotions. People will then be able to choose music for the type of mood they want, for example if they want to feel happy they can play a song which evokes happiness.

The excerpt from News.com.au goes on to explain:

The app would allow people to type in what mood they wanted - for example calm and focused when driving to avoid road rage - and the "mood genie" would select a song.

"Being more aware of the power of music can help people regulate their emotional arousal both up and down," Dr Dingle said.

Source: http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/health/music-can-trigger-cravings-for-drugs-or-alcohol-study-finds/story-fniym874-1226768247016

Check out Responsible Service of Alcohol Progam course FAQ's here.

#Music #Alcohol Cravings #Alcohol

RSA News: Alcohol Education for Youth Heads to the Classroom in Queensland

The government has taken its crackdown on alcohol and drugs to schools in an effort to educate teenagers about the dangers of intoxication.

According to The Sunday Mail newspaper, the Queensland state government is planning on improving the anti-drug and alcohol messages being taught in schools as part of a package of reforms.

One spokesperson for the government said they were currently investigating the inclusion of content relating to alcohol abuse into the school curriculum in the state and according to Education Minister John-Paul Langbroek the changes would affect students in Years 7 to 12.

The following is a quote of Langbroek’s taken from a post on Couriermail.com.au

"We can't underestimate the importance of drug and alcohol education, especially in tackling alcohol-fuelled violence," Mr Langbroek said.

"This is why I have asked my department to develop student modules for Years 7 to 12 and teacher resources that address this issue.

"These resources will support students to make positive choices and will be made available for all Queensland schools."

Source: http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/state-set-to-teach-children-risks-of-alcohol-abuse-at-high-schools/story-fnihsrf2-1226821459604

According to reports, the government also plans on getting the public’s input by launching an online survey. The survey will get the community’s opinion on whether liquor and drug reforms should be introduced in the state.

The online survey will ask the community to rank the measures according to their importance which they think the government should adopt. Measures under consideration include ID scanners to prevent entry to licensed venues for problem patrons, lockouts similar to those adopted in NSW as well as harsher penalties for alcohol fuelled offences.

The survey will also question the public about the safety of late-night transportation and whether there is enough food available at venues.

It is believed these actions by the government come after more than 8000 people contacted the Premier via Facebook regarding allegedly mooted reforms including mandatory drug and alcohol testing. The following excerpt which quotes Mr Newman explains:

"So far, the response from the community has been overwhelming - but it's critically important that we get this right," Mr Newman said.

"People need to keep their thoughts coming. Let me assure you, we're listening carefully to what you're saying."

Mr Newman said a final decision on which reforms would be implemented would be announced next month.

"At its core is going to be a strong emphasis on education and changing the culture that surrounds going out and having a good time," Mr Newman Mr Newman said.

Source: http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/queensland/state-set-to-teach-children-risks-of-alcohol-abuse-at-high-schools/story-fnihsrf2-1226821459604

Mr Newman said he hoped the survey would help the government better understand how the changes would affect the people of the state and assist the government in taking the right approach to combat alcohol and drug fuelled violence.

#RSA News #RSA #Alcohol

Alcohol Fuelled Violence Abounding in Gladstone

Alcohol fuelled violence seems to have gotten to unacceptable levels in Gladstone if media reports are anything to go by.

One man in Gladstone landed in court after having too much to drink and assaulting a female friend. While the 26 year old was remorseful for his actions, this is precisely the effect that binge drinking has on people and their self-control. This is why the government has implemented mandatory responsible service of alcohol training for all employees of the hospitality sector or anyone employed in a licenced venue, whether their job involves directly serving alcohol or not.

The following excerpt details what happened:

Deepak Sharma was visiting a friend when they both woke up the other occupant of the house.

When the housemate asked Sharma to be quiet, he grabbed her by the wrists, pushed her and slapped her four times.

The 26-year-old was remorseful when he pleaded guilty in Gladstone Magistrates Court this week.

"I was too drunk," he said. "I really apologise."

Magistrate Russell Warfield said it was another example of what happened when people drank too much alcohol.

Sharma was fined $750 with no conviction recorded and was told to be careful in the future.

Source: http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/slapping-woman-lands-drunk-man-court-assault/1958643/

The man was lucky to escape a criminal conviction however others may not be so lucky. In fact there have been numerous cases of people who were so intoxicated that they committed murder.

In a separate incident another Gladstone resident was banned from establishments in the city centre for a year after a pub fight he was involved in got totally out of hand. What started as a heated argument ended up much worse and the man ended up receiving a 3 month jail sentence, was also fined $2000 and disqualified from driving for two years. Although these are harsh consequences, they could have been much worse.

This post from GladstoneObserver.com.au explains further:

A GLADSTONE man has been banned from establishments in the city centre for a year after a pub fight got out of hand last month.

A heated argument turned into a punch-up at the Cental Lane Hotel about 7pm on June 22.

Michael Quinn McNeice punched another patron in the back of the head before smashing a glass bottle and throwing it at staff.

McNeice pleaded guilty to drunk and disorderly behaviour and affray when he appeared in Gladstone Magistrates Court this week.

He was banned from the Reef Hotel, Bojangles nightclub and the Central Lane Hotel for a year and was sentenced to three months jail, to be suspended.

Source: http://www.gladstoneobserver.com.au/news/punch-up-leads-to-years-ban-from-three-venues/1959951/

This is yet another reason why alcohol should only be consumed in moderation, because even the most gentle person normally can get out of hand when they’ve had too much to drink. Men should not regularly drink more than 3 to 4 units a day and women should stick to less than 2 or 3 units of alcohol a day – this is even less for people driving or operating machinery and pregnant women should refrain from alcohol altogether.

Check out Responsible Service of Alcohol Progam course FAQ's here.

#Alcohol Fuelled Violence #alcohol #RSA

Alcohol and Drugs Enormous Cost to Workplaces

According to a report prepared for the Australian Drug Foundation, alcohol and drug use is costing Australian businesses a staggering $5.2billion annually in hidden lost productivity and absenteeism. This is even more reason for employers to tackle this problem rather than simply turning a blind eye to staff drug and alcohol abuse problems.

The cost of absenteeism due to alcohol alone is estimated at $1.2billion and there are even greater hidden costs due to loss of productivity because of drugs and alcohol. In fact the real cost isn’t even known because employers don’t have enough information to determine the “real” dollar cost of alcohol and drug use to companies.

The follow was taken from a post on Probonoaustralia.com.au and explains:

Workplace drug and alcohol experts Dr Ken Pidd and Professor Ann Roche revealed in The Policy Talk paper that alcohol use was responsible for 5% of all Australian workplace deaths, and up to 11% of non-fatal injuries.

Australian Drug Foundation Head of Workplace Services, Phillip Collins said the annual cost of absenteeism due to alcohol alone was estimated at up to $1.2 billion.

“The costs of lost productivity or absenteeism due to alcohol and other drugs are well hidden in most businesses,” he said.

“Employers and HR departments simply don’t have enough information to attribute the days of work their staff are missing as being due to drug and alcohol use.”

Source: http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2013/07/alcohol-and-drugs-costing-workplaces-billions#sthash.K8nFyeZp.dpuf

As the experts pointed out drug and alcohol use is a difficult issue to address especially when it occurs outside of working hours. And many employers may make the mistake of targeting individuals in their organisation who they deem to be “problematic” – this however is “misguided” according to the experts quoted in the article. The paper is about applying good practice workplace programs and shows there are much better ways for businesses to respond rather than target individuals.

Phillip Collins the head of workplace service from the Australian Drug Foundation said a preventative approach is better where alcohol and drug workplace program is used to help organisations become healthier and effectively more productive. Also a tailored approach is best as businesses with good alcohol and drug programs adopted this approach which proved most effective.

The post goes on to explain:

“Each workplace has its own unique customs, practices and conditions which impact the workplace culture, and drug use, so there is no one-size-fits-all answer unfortunately,” he said.

“There are, however, four basic components central to any effective workplace alcohol and drug program.

“Workplaces need to develop and implement a sound formal written alcohol and drug policy which fits the organisation’s needs and addresses workplace specific risks.

“Education and training about drugs and alcohol is necessary to ensure employees understand your organisation’s policy and have enough information about alcohol and drugs in the workplace, including the risks of harm.

- See more at: http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2013/07/alcohol-and-drugs-costing-workplaces-billions#sthash.K8nFyeZp.dpuf

#Workplaces #Alcohol #Drugs #Australian Drug Foundation

Youngsters Die from Home-made Spirits

Yet another young man has lost his life after drinking a poisonous batch of home-made Grappa (an Italian spirit) in what has been described as a horrific accident. Vincent Summers was only 21 years of age when he died, he had been admitted to Princess Alexandra Hospital in Brisbane on Tuesday after he and friends suffered poisoning from home distilled alcohol. He is the third of the group to die, Joel Lynam and Bryan Wilmot also passed away this week.

The group of 4 friends were at a house in Ballandean when then they all consumed the batch of Grappa suspected to be poisoned with methanol, a chemical deadly to the human body. This tragedy is yet another reminder why home-made alcohol is such a bad idea although it is likely that this was the result of mistake, the boys did not drink the alcohol on purpose, others can learn from this incident.

The alcohol may have been laced with antifreeze, the toxic chemical ethylene glycol. It is also thought that the family had been brewing alcohol on the property to make biodiesel and possibly the boys could have gotten hold of it and drank it in error.

Although we can only speculate at this time because investigators are still finding out what really happened, if antifreeze had something to do with it, it is understandable why the outcome was so tragic.

Ethylene glycol, the main ingredient of all major antifreeze brands, has long been known to be poisonous. Ethylene glycol is a colourless, odourless, sweet-tasting chemical found in many household products, including antifreeze, detergents, paints and cosmetics.

Drinking ethylene glycol will result in depression followed by heart and breathing difficulty, kidney failure, brain damage and even death. Used antifreeze may also contain metals, such as copper, zinc and lead. When ingested, ethylene glycol converts to oxalic acid which damages the kidneys and can cause kidney failure and death.

This post from Brisbanetimes.com.au explains what happened:

There have been conflicting reports about whether the men were drinking home-brewed grappa or wine. It is not yet clear whether the alcohol was solely responsible for the deaths.

A police spokesman said investigators were taking a broad view as they probed the tragedy.

It’s understood police will investigate the amount of alcohol the men consumed and whether they had taken any other substances.

A quantity of home-made alcohol is being analysed and a report is being prepared for the coroner, according to police.

Sources said the home-made grappa might have been laced with antifreeze, which typically contains the highly toxic, but sweet-tasting chemical ethylene glycol.

However, a neighbour has told media the father of the Lynam boys was brewing alcohol to make biodiesel on the family’s property.

Local winemaker Angelo Puglisi said the boys likely consumed the alcohol by mistake.

‘‘This ’grappa’ that everyone is talking about was being produced to make diesel and somehow these young fellas got hold of it,’’ he told AAP.

Read more: http://www.brisbanetimes.com.au/queensland/third-man-dies-after-drinking-home-brew-20130612-2o2ff.html#ixzz2WEJ0Zkh9

#Home-made Spirits #Grappa #Italian spirit #Ballandean

Alcohol Common in Assault Cases

Alcohol is no longer just a recreational drug it seems some criminals are using alcohol to prey on unsuspecting victims by getting them drunk and then sexually assaulting them.

According to sexual health counsellors, the most common weapon used by perpetrators of sexual assault is not illicit drugs but alcohol. Apparently drugs such as Rohypnol and Ketamine are no longer the drug of choice for sexual predators, they have turned to alcohol to get victims lucid before taking advantage of them.

According to an article on Centralwesterndaily.com.au a sexual health counsellor, Theresa Sharp says that she sees a new client every week who has been sexually assaulted and the drug these criminals are using to commit the crime isn’t Rohypnol as it was in the past, but rather alcohol.

Read the excerpt below taken from the post on Centralwesterndaily.com.au:

Theresa Sharp said she commonly sees at least one new client a week who has recently been sexually assaulted.

And the story is usually similar.

“It’s usually someone they know,” she said.

“In the news you hear about the ones where people are dragged off in to the bushes but that does not happen often.”

She said date rape drugs had gone out of fashion and perpetrators will often put an extra shot of alcohol in to their victim’s drink.

“It’s a crime, that simple,” she said.

“If they’re drunk they are not in a position of consent.”

Source: http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/1549278/alcohol-is-most-common-drug-used-in-assault/?cs=103

The counsellor also explained that people who are sexually assaulted need not be threatened or afraid to report the crime. When a victim reports to the police that they were sexually assaulted they are referred to a sexual assault counsellor, such as Theresa Sharpe.

Sharpe then goes through all the processes from a forensic exam to a toxicology report and a statement from the police. It is from this that they can deduce that alcohol was used to get the victim to do what they want and take advantage of them.

Sharpe goes on to explain in the article:

Ms Sharpe’s job is to go through all of the processes from a forensic examination to a toxicology report and a statement from police.

But there is one important message above all else, she said.

“It is always up to the victims, it is always their choice,” she said.

“Victims often feel disempowered, the attack takes the victim’s power away and we help to get it back.

“The victim is in control the whole time.”

The victim does not have to give a statement to police, nor have a forensic examination, if they choose not to proceed with charges then the sexual assault counsellor will still be there for them to help them get back a sense of normalcy.

Read more: http://www.centralwesterndaily.com.au/story/1549278/alcohol-is-most-common-drug-used-in-assault/?cs=103

It is important that people are more cautious when they are out drinking especially women because they are still the most vulnerable to sexual assault. As Ms Sharpe advised, people should always leave venues with their friends and never walk alone especially when intoxicated. Always watch over the person mixing your drink and don’t accept open drinks from people you don’t know and trust.

#Assault #Alcohol #Responsible Alcohol Policy #Responsible Service of Alcohol

Drinkers Be Warned Even “Light” Beer can get you Drunk

Victoria’s liquor regulator has issued a warning to pubs, clubs and cafes that drinking even light beer can still get you drunk and above the legal alcohol limit of 0.05.

Many drinkers are of the incorrect impression that if they drink light beers and other alcohol labelled as “light” they will not get drunk. But any amount of alcohol, even that which is labelled as light is still alcoholic and is therefore adding alcohol to the bloodstream.

This report from TheAge.com.au explains the message from the Vic Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation:

In an unusual move, the Victoria Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation has reminded bars that "drinking an alcoholic beverage of any strength will increase the amount of alcohol in the blood stream" – even light beer.

The commission said a rumour had been circulating that drinking light beer all night could allow people to drive home.

'Drinking an alcoholic beverage of any strength will increase the amount of alcohol in the blood stream.'

Under the heading, "light beer not the answer to drink driving", the commission said, "the dangers of drink driving are well known in the community yet the VCGLR has recently heard a troubling myth – that drinking light beer in any quantity allows patrons to stay below the legal limit to safely drive home".

Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/punters-confused-by-light-booze-20130515-2jmd4.html#ixzz2U082wKwD

The message also goes on to warn RSA staff that they need to be cautious when serving alcohol, even light alcohol and warn customers that they can still get drunk. Also RSA staff need to abstain from serving alcohol to unduly intoxicated patrons, so keep tabs on how much alcohol you serve to customers and cut them off once they’ve had enough.

Servers should be aware of the early signs of intoxication. Discuss with other staff and / or your manager what signs would mean you would say no to serving a customer.

Calculate how many grams of alcohol there are in 3 or 4 of the most popular types of drinks you regularly serve, including the light ones.

Managers shouldreview the range of products they stock and the information about each of these drinks, so that customers can make sensible, informed choices and staff will be able to advise customers accordingly.

The Vic Commission for Gambling and Liquor Regulation goes on to warn, according to the article on TheAge.com.au

It said staff serving alcohol should remember any alcohol will increase the amount in the blood stream.

"The exact time that the body takes to absorb alcohol will vary from one person to another," the commission said.

"Some factors that may affect the amount of alcohol in a person's bloodstream include gender, size, age, health, whether any food or water has been consumed and the amount of alcohol that is consumed," it said.

The commission said staff should keep track of how much alcohol they were serving customers.

Read more: http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/punters-confused-by-light-booze-20130515-2jmd4.html#ixzz2U082wKwD

#Light Beer #drunk driving #drink driving #Responsible Service of Alcohol

Alcohol and Speed blamed for Crash that Killed 3 Teens in NZ

There is probably no worse nightmare for a parent than getting a call in the middle of the night that your teenage child has been involved in a car crash and to hear the dreaded words that your child didn’t make it are definitely the worst that any parent could hear in their lifetime but this was the fate of a group of parents in New Zealand whose 3 teenage sons died tragically in a car crash caused by alcohol, speed and inexperienced driving.

The 17 year old driver of the vehicle was under the influence of alcohol, in addition to being an inexperienced learner driver he was speeding at the time of the crash which caused him to veer off the road because of improper braking whilst approaching a curve in the road. The car then collided with a fence and tree and flipped over. Three of the four occupants of the car died.

According to an article on NZHerald.co.nz this is what happened:

Jonathan David Joseph Williams, 17, was killed when the car he was driving sped off the road near Nelson on 21 February 2010.

Also killed in the crash were his friends Daniel Taylor Johnson and Jordan James Petera Rangiuia, both 18. Passenger Nicholas Kumagai, also 18, survived.

In a written finding, Coroner Carla naNagara said the four teens had met up in Nelson in the early hours of Sunday morning. All had been drinking.

About 3.45am the four left the city in Mr Johnson's car, initially with Mr Raniuia driving. At some point Mr Williams asked to take the wheel and the two swapped places.

Mr Kumagai said Mr Williams was speeding and he yelled at him to slow down. "Johnny braked and we started skidding sideways, smashed through some wooden posts and ended up upside down with the car wrecked."

Mr Kumagai was trapped in the car until after dawn when the wreck was discovered by a walker, who called 111.

On arrival, emergency services confirmed Mr Williams, Mr Johnson and Mr Raniuia were all dead.

Source:http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10884392

The toxicology report showed Mr Williams as being four times over the legal limit for youth drivers in New Zealand and over the adult limit as well. The vehicle was travelling between 126 and 130km per hour when it crashed.

It is important to remember that teenagers are not meant to be consuming alcohol at all and by Australian standards, the teenager driving was below the legal drinking age. Learner drivers do not have the experience to manoeuvre around curves as well as experienced drivers do and the fact that the driver was speeding at the time made the situation even worse.

Teenagers under the influence of alcohol lack the judgement necessary to not only make the right decisions but engage in complicated tasks such as driving a vehicle and they shouldn't be allowed to.

The post on NZHerald.co.nz went on to say:

"Unless or until our societal tolerance of a heavy drinking culture and easy access to alcohol changes, it is difficult to anticipate significant lowering of the risk that our teens will die in alcohol-related motor vehicle crashes."

Source:http://www.nzherald.co.nz/nz/news/article.cfm?c_id=1&objectid=10884392

#Speed #Alcohol #Crash #Responsible Service of Alcohol

Rising Alcohol Levels Giving Wine Lovers a Headache

An article on www.news.com.audiscussed the issue of increased alcohol levels in wine, which has some wine lovers tipsy and suffering from hangovers.

Apparently wine lovers around the world have experienced a new phenomenon in which wines that they have been drinking and enjoying for years are all of sudden more alcoholic than they once were. Wines are getting stronger, making those that drink them suffer from hangovers and other consequences associated with excessive alcohol.

According to experts it is actually consumers that are partly to blame because wine makers have altered their techniques to appeal to drinkers preferences.

Wine critics and advances in the art of wine making are some of the reasons why wines are being altered, and many believe that this change is bringing about unbalanced wines.

In addition to displeasing the critics, these “altered wines” are also posing a bigger health and safety risk to drinkers because often they do not realise how much alcohol they are consuming so they tend to overdo it.

What exactly is the cause of this change? Winemaking is a tradition that dates back thousands of years so what is about this particular day and age that has altered the much loved drink and has consumers complaining?

The article on News.com.au explains:

Over the last two decades, drinkers have developed a passion for fruity, aromatic wines with round, silky tannins, encouraged by high ratings from critics.

Even for growers who favour elegance over "fruit bombs", the quest for ripe tannins has led to grapes with more sugar, which transforms during fermentation into higher alcohol levels.

"I would stress that higher alcohol levels are never our aim, but rather the logical consequence of the way we work in the vineyards today, which has evolved considerably compared to how it was 20 or more years ago," says Christian Seely, managing director of AXA Millesime's wine estates in France and Portugal.

So what changed?

A couple of decades ago, yields were twice what they are today, and very little sorting was done to select the best fruit.

The alcohol levels might have been lower, but the tannins were often unripe, requiring years of cellaring to soften.

Today vintners look for mature tannins in the grape skins and seeds - phenolic ripeness in the industry jargon - before the harvest, even if it means higher sugar content.

Read more: http://www.news.com.au/lifestyle/food/rising-alcohol-levels-giving-wine-lovers-a-headache/story-fneuz92c-1226636512244#ixzz2SbClDD8R

Winemakers in an attempt to please consumers and critics have altered the way they make wine, which inadvertently has resulted in increased alcohol levels, increased alcohol content is therefore not the aim but it is a consequence.

Wine drinkers should be aware of these increased alcohol levels and not use this increase as excuse to drink excessively and engage in dangerous behaviour. As the article’s author suggests, common sense will tell a drinker that if he/she sees a high alcohol level on the label of a bottle you need to adjust the amount you might decide to drink accordingly.

#Alcohol Levels #Headache #Rising Alcohol Levels #Wine Lovers

Patron Funding helps Bar Publish Cocktail Book

An inspiring story has emerged from a Sydney night spot where the public actually helped a cocktail group achieve their dream of having a cocktail book published.

The award winning book was funded by crowds at the venue who helped raise the money to publish the cocktail book.

A campaign was launched by The Speakeasy Group on April 16 to raise funds to publish the cocktail book and according to reports, it took a mere 2 days for them to raise their target amount in order to have their book completed.

The group used the crowd-funding site “Indiegogo” to get the money to launch its first book which will hopefully be released later this year in September.

The group expressed their gratitude and amazement at the response their appeal received. Although the group has long been involved in talks to have their own cocktail book published, their publishers left the real final decision with the public and also chose to use the public’s money to market the book.

This post on Hospitalitymagazine.com.au explains:

The cocktail group behind the award-winning bar Eau de Vie are over the moon about the success of a crowd funding project to raise money to publish a cocktail book.

The Speakeasy Group launched the campaign on April 16 and in less than two days had raised the $12,000 target for the release of the Eau de Vie Cocktail book. It's now up to $18,537 with still 18 days to go.

The company, which also operates Sydney's The Roosevelt and the Bottleneck, used crowd-funding site Indiegogo to raise the funds for the launch of the book, it's first, which aims to be ready for release in late September.

The group's Sven Almenning said they were amazed by the results. "We're both overwhelmed and absolutely floored by the amazing response we’ve had from our guests and from people in general,” he said.

“We’ve been in conversations with various editors and publishing houses about an Eau de Vie cocktail book for a while, however with the publishing industry as it is, we decided to fast-track the process by leaving the decision with our guests and to use crowd-funding as the means to get it to market.

Source: http://www.hospitalitymagazine.com.au/beverage/crowd-funding-success-story-for-bar-group

Astoundingly it took just 2 days for the group to achieve their goal and finally got the go ahead for their book, “Stirred, Flamed and Thrown –Cocktails done the Eau de Vie way”. But it is more than just a recipe book, it is apparently more like “cocktail art”.

So having reached their target within two days you may be wondering what they plan on doing with the remainder of the money raised, the group plans on expanding their offering to include an instructional DVD.

The post goes on to say:

"To hit our goal in just over two days is just amazing.”

The book, currently with the working title Shaken, Stirred, Flamed & Thrown – Cocktails done the Eau de Vie way, is a 200 pager dedicated to the art of cocktails.

"We’re going for cocktail art," Almenning said.

Source: http://www.hospitalitymagazine.com.au/beverage/crowd-funding-success-story-for-bar-group

#Patron Funding #Cocktail Book #Eau de Vie #Eau de Vie Cocktail book #cocktail art

Campaign Targets Parents that Supply Teens with Alcohol

90% of Australian youth had tried alcohol by the age of 14 and in some states youth are binge drinking from as young as 12 years. The risk of serving alcohol to underage drinkers goes far beyond the legal ramifications, alcohol consumption by teenagers can have dangerous and far reaching consequences.

Some of the most common consequences of teenage drinking, which very often involves binge drinking progressing on to alcohol abuse is alcohol fuelled violence, drink driving crashes and dangerous sexual encounters.

Now a new northern beaches campaign has been launched to ask parents who provide alcohol to underage teenagers to stop doing so.

The campaign entitled, “Supply Means Supply” is being run through the northern Beaches Community Drug Action Team, a unified group of police, the 3 northern beaches councils and health organisations.

The campaign is to be run in 3 phases throughout the year and is driven by Manly Drug Education and Counselling Centre (MDECC).

This article on DailyTelegraph.com.au explains:

The first stage of the campaign runs until the end of this month and includes a confidential online survey intended for parents and carers to answer questions and learn more about the dangers associated with the secondary supply of alcohol.

Centre volunteer Kayleigh-Jane Ryder, 21, said her parents didn't allow her alcohol until she was 18, but she believed that wasn't the case for all minors.

"I think parents who give their kids a six-pack of beer before a party, they tend to assume that they won't drink anything else and they (the children) are being safe," the Beacon Hill resident said. "But the ultimate truth is that a six-pack of beer is 'pre-fill' and it's pretty much drinking before they go out and get intoxicated."

MDECC health promotion co-ordinator Amanda Watkins said it was unknown how severe the secondary supply of alcohol was from parents and carers to minors, which is why she urged people to fill out the survey to find out.

"The whole aim of the program is to educate (people)," Ms Watkins said.

Read more: http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/newslocal/northern-beaches/supply-means-supply-campaign-targets-parents-who-give-alcohol-to-teens/story-fngr8hax-1226633647655

It is important to remember that it is illegal for a young person under the age of 18 years to buy alcohol. It is also illegal for a young person under the age of 18 to drink, or have alcohol supplied to them by an adult, in a licensed venue or public place.

Laws pertaining to parental supply in private residences, public places and licensed venues vary between states. In some jurisdictions, it can be illegal to provide alcohol to young people on private property without parental permission. Parents may also be required to provide adequate supervision to young people consuming alcohol on their property.

For children and young people under 18 years of age, not drinking alcohol is the safest option, however if this is not possible, parents should closely monitor their teenagers consumption and limit it to avoid harm.

#Alcohol #Supply Means Supply #Supply Means Supply campaign

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