By MICHELLE HERBISON
UNDERAGE kids entering Geelong’s nightclubs are “playing with the livelihood” of venues, according to a business owner.
The Basement licensee Antoinette Ramia said venues faced an $845 fine and a $3000 licence fee increase every time an underage person was caught inside.
“I don’t think these kids really understand and know the trouble they’re causing for the venues in Geelong. They’re harming themselves as well because there won’t be any venues left for them to go to.”
Sergeant Aaron Riches said last weekend five underage people had their IDs seized at the door to The Basement.
Police had about 30 active investigations at any one time since the start of a recent crackdown, he said.
“Since the Geelong Liquor Licencing Accord meeting held in early April we’ve found no venues with underage persons. Venues have a direct link to the licensing unit now.”
Underage kids attempting to enter clubs faced fines of up to $282 and those with prior history received a court summons, Sgt Riches said.
Geelong Nightlife Association president Darren Holroyd said kids were “using whatever means possible” to sneak into Geelong venues.
“You need a lot of experience to pick the fake IDs from the real ones.”
He said in the past some venues showed complacency to boost numbers but now strict regulations forced them to target underage people at the door.
Ms Ramia said she had employed extra staff to boost security at The Basement.
“They’re more aware of fake IDs so they’ll all be checked.”
The Independent reported this month that police believed Geelong’s nightclubs hosted up to 100 underage offenders on Saturday nights.
