Code for bouncers

Alex de Vos
A new code of conduct for Geelong nightclub bouncers and security staff will help weed out “thugs”, according to the president of the city’s nightlife association.
Darren Holroyd said complaints about unlicensed security guards and concerns for patron safety had prompted development of the code.
Mr Holroyd said the code would call for bouncers and security staff to wear fluorescent tops for identification and to act in a “professional and courteous manner”.
“Essentially we’re trying to introduce a standard for all security staff right across Geelong,” Mr Holroyd said.
“There’s always a feeling that security guys are just thugs and we’re trying to get rid of that mentality.”
The agreement follows the introduction of permanent ID scanners at Geelong nightclubs in late 2007. The city area’s six main clubs agreed to install the scanners as part of an accord with police to clean up alcohol-fuelled crime.
The scanners take and store images of licences or other ID while simultaneously photographing people seeking entry. Information about prior infringements at any of the participating nightclubs appear after the scanning process for staff to refuse entry.
Other initiatives included a lock-out one hour before closing time, bans on advertising cheap drinks and tight restrictions on all-inclusive nights, sometimes referred to as “20-buck-chuck” sessions.
Mr Holroyd said the code of conduct would build on the success of the accord.
“Since the accord I think things have certainly improved around town,” he said.
“There hasn’t been a lot of serious assaults and we believe a lot of the strategies are working.”