Keep our parties safe

Last weekend has left our community feeling pretty shell-shocked. The fact the police targeted Azure was no surprise to many, but the scale of the operation was overwhelming. As with a number of events at that site, sniffer dogs were used and resulted in a number of people facing court charged with a range of drug offences. We know that new dogs have been specially trained to identify ecstasy and other amphetamine products. Everyone should remember that cannabis is particularly easy to identify.

There are two major points I want to cover this week -“ both are vital if we want to ensure that our parties and their patrons are kept safe. Firstly, know the law and understand the consequences of carrying and using illegal drugs. If you are carrying drugs on your person there is a very real chance that you could be caught. The most effective way to reduce these risks is not to carry illicit drugs on you.

The best way to avoid problems with the police is to be as helpful and cooperative as possible, but it is also important to know your rights and to be aware of the extent of police powers. On the NSW Council for Civil Liberties website (www.nswccl.org.au/issues/sniffer_dogs.php) there is a section dedicated to sniffer dogs and your legal rights.

Sniffer dogs can be used to search people randomly only in three situations: in pubs and other places where alcohol is served; at entertainment events, including sporting events, concerts, dance parties and street parades; and on public transport and stations. Any drug search of a person outside these situations is illegal unless the police have a reasonable suspicion or a warrant. If you have been approached by a police sniffer dog team outside these areas, you should complain or report it.

If a dog sits down next to you, then police can search you. In this situation, firstly, stay calm and be polite. You could be fined or arrested if you swear at the police, so don’t give them an excuse.

If you do have drugs on you the law says you must give your name and address to police. You don’t have to say anything more, if you don’t want to.

Take the time to look at the link above. It will give you more information on your rights and help you to be more prepared if you are ever put into a situation where you are approached by a sniffer dog.

Finally, be aware that roadside drug testing is now up and running in Sydney. There is no doubt in my mind the Mardi Gras weekend will be targeted. If you plan to party in the inner city at any time over the weekend, do not drive. Catch a cab, stay with a friend in the city or walk but do not get behind the wheel of a car as there is every possibility that you could find yourself charged.

Remember: if you do not want any negative consequences, do not use the drug and, no matter how many times you have used a substance, never be blas?/p>