Inspectors visiting on-snow licensed venues to ensure COVID and alcohol safety

With the mountains already blanketed with snow and with the official ski season launch this long-weekend, Liquor and Gaming inspectors will be visiting licensed venues at the snow to ensure they have proper measures in place for COVID safety and responsible service of alcohol.

Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors will conduct targeted operations in Jindabyne, Thedbo 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.

Liquor & Gaming Director of Compliance Darren Duke said venues in the snowy region are preparing for an influx of skiers and boarders and must ensure patron safety.

Duke notes “we are ensuring all on-snow licensed venues know their responsibilities when it comes to COVID and alcohol safety.

“Liquor & Gaming 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.

“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.

“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.

Duke adds “The Snowy Mountains Liquor Accord, which includes 40 representatives from venues, police, Liquor & Gaming NSW and stakeholders, also met earlier this month to ensure a coordinated effort promoting a safe and successful ski season.

“The annual snow season provides great economic benefits for the local community and Liquor & Gaming inspectors will be visiting again throughout the season. It’s in everyone’s best interests for all venues to ensure patron safety.”

Image courtesy Vail Resorts Perisher