A licensee of a restaurant in Maroochydore, Queensland, has copped a $3,000 fine for obstructing an Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) compliance officer.
The officer visited the venue on 7 September 2019, finding the entertainment exceeded the authorised noise level on the venue’s liquor licence. The licensee, a 37-year-old woman, then obstructed the officer when she was requested to turn the music down.
“When our officer introduced himself as an authorised investigator to the licensee and explained his concerns, the licensee verbally abused him and later pushed the officer towards the exit,” said Commissioner for Liquor and Gaming Ms Victoria Thomson.
“The officer then approached the approved manager, but the licensee instructed him to not answer the officer’s questions, before taking him away to prevent further questioning.
“As the officer’s safety had been compromised, he had to then seek assistance from the Queensland Police Service to complete the inspection and questioning.
“The licensee pleaded guilty and was charged with two counts of obstructing an investigator under the Liquor Act 1992 in the Maroochydore Magistrates Court last Thursday.”
A magistrate said the licensee’s behaviour was unnecessary, demeaning and humiliating to inspectors.
“While no conviction was recorded, the licensee was informed that if she came before the court again it was likely a conviction would be recorded and this may result in her losing her liquor licence,” said Ms Thomson.
“I do not tolerate any assault, abuse or intimidation against any officer and am extremely pleased with the court outcome.
“Achieving industry compliance is a team effort, and we rely strongly on industry to work with us, not against us.”