Pittwater Life July 2024 Issue

$2,200 fines for alcohol
Drinking alcohol will be
banned around the clock
at Village Park at Mona Vale
and the boardwalk at Church
Point following a new Council
decision.
The two Pittwater locations,
along with Howard
Ave Reserve at Dee Why and
Wingara Reserve at Belrose,
were declared 24-hour Alcohol
Prohibited Areas (APAs)
in June.
Council warned non-compliance
could lead to a fine of
up to $2,200.
An APA is a non-roadrelated
public place such as a
park, reserve or beach where
drinking alcohol is prohibited.
Council can declare
an APA at all times, or only
for specific days, times or
events.
Council explained the aim
of APAs was to help improve
public safety by reducing
disruptive and anti-social behaviour
and crime associated
with alcohol consumption on
the Northern Beaches.
Council said police and
rangers could confiscate and
dispose of alcohol in these
places – and anyone refusing
to co-operate, can be charged
with obstruction, carrying
penalties up to $2,200.
Northern Beaches Mayor
Sue Heins said the changes
would bring a consistent approach
to community safety.
“Previously, our APAs were
inconsistent due to former
Council areas having different
approaches; however, the
police have requested a uniformed
approach to provide
certainty for them and our
rangers as to the restrictions
and enforcement,” Mayor
Heins said.
“This is a practical way in
which Council can assist the
police to improve public safety
and to reduce alcohol-related
incidents, ensuring our parks,
recreational areas, and public
spaces remain safe and enjoyable
for all residents.”
All Council beaches
(oceans and inner waterway
beaches) are already 24-hour
APAs.
– NW
News
The Local Voice Since 1991
JULY 2024 19