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Blues Brews & BBQ's

Wednesday 12 January 2011, 4:58PM

By New Zealand Police

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MT MAUNGANUI

Western Bay Police would like the Blues Brews & BBQ's event this year to be "A day to remember, not a day to forget".

Inspector Karl WRIGHT-ST CLAIR said Police and the event organisers had worked closely together during the year and collectively have implemented a number of changes to ensure a safe event environment and to encourage patrons to maintain a responsible attitude towards their alcohol consumption.

He said he was pleased that the organisers had taken the suggestions on board this year in addition to other initiatives that they had put forward. This includes a greater emphasis on the musical entertainment with additional stages.

Police will be monitoring the event to gauge the effectiveness of the changes.
Police have also applied for a temporary liquor ban in the surrounding streets to prevent patrons "pre-loading" with alcohol prior to entering the event and to give local residents some reassurance that excessive alcohol consumption in their neighbourhood would be monitored.

Inspector WRIGHT-ST CLAIR also hoped that the temporary liquor ban would assist event organisers with their responsibilities not to allow intoxicated persons to enter the venue.

He said "Western Bay Police will continue their commitment to reducing alcohol related harm including violence and disorder in the community." 

Organisers recognise the cultural shift that is occurring with regards to attitudes towards alcohol says David Mustard, Festival Co-ordinator and says that the committee has been proactive over a number of years in implementing changes to ensure that the festival remains an occasion that patrons can enjoy without becoming intoxicated. The closer involvement with the Police this year has been welcomed and will further ensure that this iconic event is not spoiled by the actions of a very small minority.

Changes include the move to a Saturday, holding the festival in daylight hours, increased variety of music and reducing the total number of tickets available