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School raises concern

Kate LeaverStirling Times

ST John’s Primary School principal Mary Bizzaca has submitted an objection over the proposed Liquorland store to the Department of Racing Gaming and Liquor on behalf of the school.

“As a school community, our objection was related to the close proximity of the proposed liquor store to out school premises, particularly the play area and the high visibility, due to the fact our children are there during the day,” Ms Bizzaca said.

“It creates an unconscious awareness in our young students about suitability of drinking; promoting drinking subliminally in a sense.

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“I quoted a research paper about the visual effect of alcohol advertising on children.”

Ms Bizzaca said Wesfarmers (owners of the Liquorland chain) representatives visited the school last year to talk about the upcoming proposal.

“When they came to meet with me in March last year, they did mention they would do things like plant trees to reduce the visual aspect and the sound,” she said. “A Wesfarmers lawyer and representative from Liquorland said there would only be the one sign.

“The image of the word Liquorland in any way shape or format will still be advertising the sale of liquor in its very title.”

A Department of Racing, Gaming and Liquor (RGL) spokesman said an application for a liquor store at the site was received on November 12 last year.

“The last date for lodgements of objections or support from residents was December 30, 2015,” he said.

The RGL spokesman said objections to a liquor licence were only part of the evidence when determining an application.

“The licensing authority must be convinced that it is in the public interest to issue a liquor licence,” he said.