Drink wisely— not too much

Fresh campaign to target at-risk alcohol users

l CAIRNS

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Nick Dalton

RESEARCH that shows

Queenslanders drink more alcohol at risky levels than the national average has led to a new DrinkWise campaign launched in Cairns.

DrinkWise chief executive officer Simon Strahan said, with the Queensland Hotels Association (QHA), his organisation was launching the initiative to remind Queenslanders about the importance of moderating alcohol consumption, always being respectful towards others and knowing that support services were available to provide help and advice if needed.

He said the expansion of DrinkWise’s education efforts in Queensland increased after the organisation’s research revealed Queenslanders (34 per cent) were significantly more likely to be drinking alcohol at risky levels when compared with the nation’s average (28 per cent).

He said risky drinkers were classified as people who consumed 10 or more standard drinks a week, or more than four standard drinks during a day.

Mr Strahan said moderation, respect and responsibil- ity themed posters, coasters, and digital assets would be displayed in 24 pubs, bars and bottle shops throughout central Cairns.

He said moderation, mental health and support service social media messaging would also be tailored for adult audiences in the Cairns area, including specific moderation and mental health messaging directed towards young adults.

“Of course, while the majority of Australians are choosing to drink within the recommended government guidelines, there are still some who are drinking at risky levels, engaging in anti-social behaviour or turning to alcohol as a coping strategy, which is why we’re increasing our efforts in Queensland,” Mr Strahan said.

Senior Sergeant Gary Hunter of Cairns Police said the DrinkWise messaging “is really important to educate the wider community about drinking in moderation and being respectful to those they live with and the wider community at all times”.

Cairns Mayor Bob Manning said “these DrinkWise materials will serve as consistent reminders to those customers who choose to drink, to do so responsibly and to socialise in a respectful manner.”

North Queensland Cowboys player Cohen Hess said “The initiative is something all the Cowboys players are passionate about.

“We’re proud to work with DrinkWise to remind Queenslanders to take care of one another and if choosing to drink alcohol at a game, at a hotel or at home, it should always be in moderation and respecting those around them,” he said.

QHA chief executive Bernie Hogan said it was important that QHA were helping promote messages that encouraged conversations about mental health, with pubs integral to regional Queensland communities.