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Successful prosecution of nightclub in overcrowding breach

THE City of Fremantle has successfully prosecuted Metropolis Fremantle for two overcrowding offences under health regulations for public buildings.

Both incidents relate to an inspection and undercover operation conducted by City of Fremantle officers, in conjunction with police, in the early hours of September 17, 2006, resulting in fines and court costs totalling $27,500.

City of Fremantle Environmental Health & Building Services Coordinator Matthew Piggott said the magistrate ruled in favour of the city after four days in court over the past 18 months.

“It followed extensive cross-examination from Perth barrister John Prior but the magistrate found all City of Fremantle witnesses to be credible and consistent in their evidence,” he said.

“Despite Metropolis Fremantle engaging an expert statistician, the patron counts submitted by our witnesses were found to be reliable and proof that two public building areas within the nightclub were overcrowded and compromised public safety.”

Mr Piggott said all officers involved were to be congratulated for their efforts in this matter, as part of their ongoing work in protecting public health across the City of Fremantle.

“There are significant dangers and public health risks when licensees allow their venues to be overcrowded because patrons and employees cannot move freely and, in an emergency, they would not be able to evacuate the premises quickly and safely.

“This is why we maintain a commitment to the Fremantle Accord and continue to work with licensees and monitor their compliance with regulations to ensure the safe consumption of alcohol and safety of patrons on their premises.”