Smooth start for ID checks

Alex de Vos
Geelong nightclubs have reported a smooth start to the use of ID scanners to weed out troublemakers and underage revellers.
Geelong Nightlife Association chairman and Lamby’s Tavern manager Darren Holroyd said the scanners were “working well” despite “teething” problems delaying entry to some venues.
The ID scanners came into force last weekend at the central city area’s main nightclubs.
The Independent reported last week that the scanners would check ID and photograph patrons, with troublemakers facing bans from three months to life.
The scanners also detect fake IDs.
Mr Holroyd said the scanners had caused minor delays in access to clubs but patrons generally had responded positively.
“I think it’s a bit slow because initially you have to tell people where to stand but as people work the system out they’ll get used to it and the process will speed up,” Mr Holroyd said.
The Lamby’s scanner had not detected any fake IDs, he said.
Home House nightclub business manager Mario Gregorio also praised the new technology, saying alcohol-fuelled violence had ceased since the introduction of the scanners.
“Everyone has been quite receptive and we’ve noticed a behavioral change in patrons inside the clubs,” he said.
“People know we have their details on file and keep them for 28 days and this has deterred them from causing trouble.”
Geelong Police Chief Inspector Wayne Carson said the ID scanners would help officers identify troublemakers and deter revellers who wanted to “muck around”.
“It’s still early days but so far there hasn’t been any assaults reported,” he said.