News - Bega Merimbula Eden Bermagui Tathra Pambula

Students in the Bega Valley Shire have had the opportunity to obtain their Responsible Service of Alcohol (RSA) certificates by taking part in the 2009 ‘Think the Drink’ program.

The 17 and 18 year olds participated in the program during September and November at the Illawarra Institute of TAFE Bega campus to improve their employment prospects in local pubs and clubs and to learn about the responsibility clubs and publicans have when serving alcohol to the public.

The ‘Think the Drink’ program is a Bega Valley Community Drug Action Team (CDAT) initiative, supported by the Community Development Support Expenditure (CDSE) scheme, Bega Valley Liquor Accord and Bega Valley Shire Council.

The chair of Bega Valley CDAT, Paul Brunton said the RSA was both an educative tool providing information about alcohol use and an industry-accredited vocational requirement.

“It has been proven over the past three years that students who partake in the course also gain a better understanding of the effects of alcohol and therefore treat alcohol consumption with a greater respect,” he said.

One of the participants, Bega High School year 12 student Karina Gaal, said, it was great to get a better understanding of the effects of alcohol while at the same time gaining a qualification.

This year’s program was also attended by members of the NSW Police Department and members of the Bega Valley Liquor Accord who spoke to students about the laws, regulations and hazards related to alcohol consumption from their perspectives.

More than160 young people completed the program and those who are over 18 are now eligible to work in clubs and pubs across NSW. The 17 year olds will be mailed their qualification when they turn 18.

All participants immediately gain the advantage of understanding the effects of alcohol consumption and the legal and health repercussions of excessive alcohol consumption.

“The program has been well received by schools, students and the wider community and it is hoped that the program will continue to run each year in the Bega Valley Shire,” BVSC community development officer Mr Marshall said.

For more information about the ‘Think the Drink’ program phone Emma Benton at Bega Valley Shire Council on 6499 2157.