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Major events which allow underage patrons can come with challenges. It is important to have measures in place to protect the safety of all patrons and staff.
Liquor Control Victoria Inspectors were recently at an outdoor music festival with approval to have underage patrons. Inspectors observed several processes which contributed to a well-run and safe event for patrons and staff, such as:
- Underage patrons without a parent, legal guardian or responsible adult were refused entry.
- Prior to entry, in dedicated areas, underage patrons received pink wristbands for easy identification, other patrons received green.
- Each underage attendee had their emergency contact details written on their wristband. Prior to festival entry, staff called this number to confirm it.
- A condition of entry for underage patrons was that they must remain accompanied by parent, legal guardian or responsible adult for duration of the event.
Clear expectations and policies for underage patrons were communicated prior to the festival on the event website. Key information included:
- a dedicated underage information pack with definition of ‘responsible adult’
- recommendation of no patrons under the age of 15
- warnings about loud music, high intensity crowd movements, potential for bands using profanities and patrons consuming alcohol.
Communication prior to the event, and measures implemented on arrival at the festival site ensured organisers were fully compliant with their legal obligations. Most importantly, the safety of all patrons was a priority. (For more information Liquor Control Victoria)