Griffith Community Drug Action Team Needs Residents
Thursday January 29, 2015
Griffith Community Drug Action Team (CDAT) is hoping to boost its member numbers at its Annual General Meeting to be held next week.
CDAT Chairperson, Councillor Pat Cox said they are looking for new members and fresh ideas in order to create programs aimed at preventing harm from alcohol and other drug misuse.
“The Community Drug and Alcohol research conducted late last year revealed concerning data,” said Councillor Cox.
“58% of people surveyed believe alcohol is a problem and stated it is too easy for young people to get alcohol, while 85% are worried about illegal drug use and also agree it is too easy for young people to get illegal drugs.”
The survey also revealed concerns within the community, suggesting drug and alcohol misuse has a negative impact on family relations, health problems and harm to other people.
“This data supports CDAT’s decision to address secondary supply of alcohol to underage people and prevention through education and awareness of the harms from substance misuse,” added Councillor Cox.
CDAT has a longstanding relationship with key stakeholder groups including the Griffith Liquor Accord and Griffith Local Area Command to identify current and emerging trends and address the impact of these trends.
Recent statistics from Griffith Local Area Command demonstrate a reduction in alcohol non-domestic related assaults over the past 5 years. According to NSW Crime and Statistics Griffith Local Government Area per year has had a 13.5% reduction in alcohol (non-domestic violence) related assaults.
Local Police Officer, Sergeant Brett Ryan said Officers from Griffith Local Area Command are in and around licensed premises targeting intoxication and anti-social and violent behaviour.
“In conjunction with the State’s media campaign, CDAT & Police are reinforcing the message that people need to take responsibility for their own actions and friends should also ensure mates are acting responsibly,” said Sergeant Ryan.
“We would like people to understand that getting drunk and making a bad decision can change your life forever, so don’t use alcohol as an excuse to get into a fight or do something stupid. And if you are going to be consuming alcohol you need to have a plan B to ensure you and the rest of the community get home safe.”
Chairperson of the Griffith Liquor Accord, Tim Olivero said Griffith licensed venues are recording record results and are achieving some of the lowest rates of anti-social behavior, including assaults in the state.
“The proactive stance of CDAT, the Griffith Liquor Accord in partnership with the Griffith Local Area Command is certainly paying dividends from a whole of community approach,” said Mr Olivero.
“When everyone works together the whole community can achieve favourable results.”
Councillor Cox would like to extend an invitation to interested persons to attend the AGM, which will be held in the Griffith City Council Chambers on Wednesday 4 February 2015 at 2pm.
“We need community members on board to continue the work we are doing with Griffith Local Area Command, the Liquor Accord and local licensed outlets,” added Councillor Cox.
Beau Newell Senior Community Development Officer from the Australian Drug Foundation will be attending the meeting. Mr Newell oversees the Good Sports Program and CDAT projects in Western NSW. People wanting to know more about CDAT can call Peta Dummett on 6962 8100 or visit adf.org.au/cdat .
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