Liquor restrictions after anti-social behaviour

Restrictions on alcohol sales were imposed at the three drive-through liquor outlets in Broome yesterday after anti-social behaviour in parts of town.

Police said a number of disorderly incidents stemmed from a football match at Haynes Oval on Saturday and later in Old Broome.

The local liquor accord agreed to police requests for no taxi services to the locations from opening time at midday.

At 5pm, purchases were restricted to mid-strength beer only after monitoring of the bottle shops showed large quantities of alcohol were being purchased from private vehicles.

One of the shops closed at about 6pm while the remaining two traded with the restricted sales until closing time.

Broome Senior Sergeant Brendon Barwick said the restrictions were voluntary through the local liquor accord and not imposed by police under the Liquor Control Act.

“We are very grateful to the accord for their assistance,” he said.

“Our feedback in regards to the restrictions has been in general very positive and supportive.

“This action is required to ensure community safety and to ensure police can respond in a timely manner to meet the needs of the entire community.”

Sen Sgt Barwick said restrictions had been imposed about six times over the past two-and-half-years.