Police have responded to two serious incidents of alcohol-fuelled violence in Wagga over the weekend.
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Riverina Police Detective Chief Inspector Winston Woodward said officers were called out to separate incidents at licensed premises on Hammond Avenue and Fitzmaurice Street, respectively.
"We don't like being the fun police, but there were two incidents of assault in licensed premises over the weekend where I'm just calling for people to take a breath ... have a good time and look out for each other," he said.
"These are serious assaults that are occurring, one in a car park and one which started in a premises and ended up outside."
He said a man had been charged by police as a result of an altercation in the car park outside a licensed venue on Hammond Avenue.
"One male, he picked up a torch and threatened the people out in the car park. There were some serious offences looming there," Inspector Woodward said.
He said the other incident began in a venue on Fitzmaurice Street and ended up outside.
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No charges have been laid yet as this matter is still under a police investigation that is expected to take a few days.
Inspector Woodward said both violent altercations seemed to be a result of people drinking too much and being unable to handle their liquor.
"I believe that alcohol just plays the biggest part in relation to violence in our licensed premises and on our streets," he said.
"The licensed premises have done what they can to keep it safe, but there's always more that can be done.
"You really have to monitor the intoxication levels in licensed premises. We have to be responsible across the board."
He urged the community to "take care, look out for each other and drink responsibly", particularly with the threat of coronavirus still looming large.
"We're at a time now where ... in Sydney you can see the northern suburbs be locked down. It doesn't take much for a virus such as what we have seen to get down to Wagga," he said.
"Please, maintain your social distancing in licensed premises. If you feel like you need to wear a face mask, by all means wear a face mask.
"Don't let a night out before Christmas, a work party or social drinks, turn into one where you're getting a date at Wagga Local Court."
Catie McLeod
Catie is a reporter at The Daily Advertiser covering health and Wagga City Council. You can contact her on c.mcleod@dailyadvertiser.com.au or 0475 819 651.
Catie is a reporter at The Daily Advertiser covering health and Wagga City Council. You can contact her on c.mcleod@dailyadvertiser.com.au or 0475 819 651.
