Crowd behaviour ensures another successful Indy Carnival.

Liquor Licensing Minister Margaret Keech has commended visitors on their behaviour during the four-day Lexmark Indy 300 Carnival.

Mrs Keech said only minor breaches of the Liquor Act were detected during Indy.

“It was estimated that more than 312,000 people, mostly adults, visited the Gold Coast region during the Carnival, and liquor breaches to the Act were notably low,” she said.

“In a joint operation from midday Thursday to 7 am today, 81 premises were checked by liquor licensing officers, Queensland police and fire-fighters, with only 25 minor breaches of the Liquor Act identified. Fines levied totalled $9150.

“During the operation officers also checked identities for 94 partons and credentials for 57 security guards.

“Most of the fines issued under the Act were breaches of licensed premise conditions, involving noise matters, licensed areas and advertising.”

Mrs Keech said Queensland police issued approximately 175 fines to patrons for consumption or possession of liquor in public places.

“The Indy result vindicated the Beattie Government’s decision to waive the 3 am lock-out conditions during the carnival,” Mrs Keech said.

“It is the continued responsible approach of Gold Coast licensees to alcohol management for this event over the past three years that ensured the relaxing of the lockout was included in legislation proclaiming a state-wide lockout.

“I commend licensees, the race committee, Liquor Licensing staff, police, Queensland Fire and Rescue Service staff and visitors for making the Indy carnival a safe and enjoyable event.”

Media contact: David Smith 3225 1005 / 0409 496 534