Twelve month liquor restriction trial for Broome and Derby canned after retailers pull support from local liquor accord

A 12-month voluntary liquor restriction trial that was set to limit the amount of takeaway alcohol that could be purchased in every outlet across Broome and Derby has been canned. In a statement released this morning, the Shire of Broome said there was no longer unilateral support from all retailers in the West Kimberley, which was essential for the limits to be put in place. It is understood a number of bottle shop owners had pulled out from the Broome Liquor Accord because of the financial strain COVID-19 had on business. The trial would have prevented any individual from buying more than one carton of full-strength beer and three bottles of wine or equivalent purchases each day in response to high rates of antisocial behaviour, crime and violence in the tourist town. It was due to launch on July 1, with takeaway alcohol management system technology installed at all points of sale across the two towns, requiring photo ID when buying liquor to monitor purchases over a 24-hour period at any bottle shop. Shire president and Broome Liquor Accord chairman Harold Tracey said he remained committed to reducing alcohol-related harm in the region’s west. “I acknowledge the financial impact COVID-19 has had on all industries and small businesses in Broome and the wider Kimberley region,” he said. “So much hard work has already been undertaken by all parties to get to this stage — it would be a real shame to see that go to waste and I remain hopeful that an agreement can be reached. “Ongoing alcohol restrictions in our region are one of the key measures that are needed to try to address the deep-rooted social issues in our towns.” Scantek Solutions were due to install the TAMS technology after being awarded the contract in December. A total of 23 machines, costing $196,000, would have been introduced by next month.