Camp alcohol ban considered 'historic'

The Tangentyere Council in Alice Springs says the declaration of Abbott's Camp as an alcohol-free zone is a historic moment.

The Northern Territory Licensing Commission yesterday announced its decision to grant the residents' application as a means to help combat violence in the camp.

If anyone takes liquor into the camp, just off South Terrace, they will be prosecuted and the car they are driving will be seized.

Tangentyere Council's Jane Vadiveloo says the decision is a great achievement for camp residents.

"Absolutely historic yes, very much the first one in Alice Springs, so we just want to get this one right and support the community in the next 12 months, put in other strategies, work closely with the police and make sure we can make it a positive and strong town camp," she said.

Territory police told the licensing commission hearing on Tuesday that it would make Abbott's Camp a targeted location for regular patrols to enforce the alcohol ban.

Commander Mark Coffey told the hearing that police would also appoint a liaison officer to work directly with camp residents to make the ban succeed.

Police had opposed previous applications by the camp for an alcohol ban but Commander Coffey says the strong management and leadership shown within the community meant it was time to take the step.

Newshawk: http://www.napnt.org
Pubdate: Thur, 20 October 2005
Source: Australian Broadcasting Corporation (Australia Web)
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Copyright: 2005 Australian Broadcasting Corporation
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