Mackay bouncer’s security licence cancelled
Published Monday, 20 October, 2008 at 04:21 PM
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice and Minister Assisting the Premier in Western Queensland
The Honourable Kerry Shine
A Mackay bouncer has lost his security licence after being convicted of assaulting a patron in an alley near Doors Nightclub late last year while off duty.
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said Misivila Apu’Ula recently pleaded guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm, which is a disqualifying offence under the Security Providers Act 1993.
“The patron suffered serious facial injuries and Mr Apu’Ula’s licence had already been suspended pending the outcome of his trial in the Mackay District Court,” Mr Shine said.
“The security licence was automatically cancelled on conviction.
“Mr Apu’Ula was sentenced to two-and-a-half years’ jail and will not be eligible for parole until 17 March 2009.
“He had already served several months in custody awaiting trial.”
Mr Shine said the latest cancellation reinforced the government’s message that the delivery of security services carried a high level of responsibility and unprofessional behaviour would not be tolerated in the industry.
“Most security providers are very professional and play an important role in maintaining the peace in sometimes challenging circumstances,” he said.
“But we will not hesitate to crack down on those who think their security licence puts them above the law.
“The Queensland Government recently allocated $2 million to implement and enforce the tough new laws that took effect in July.
“Those changes were introduced to enhance public safety by ensuring only appropriate and competent professionals are licensed to operate within the security industry.
“This is the third licence cancelled in recent months.”
Mr Shine said other security providers had lost their licences as a result of violent incidents on the Gold Coast and in far north Queensland.
Media Contact: Chris Taylor 0419 710 874
Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said Misivila Apu’Ula recently pleaded guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm, which is a disqualifying offence under the Security Providers Act 1993.
“The patron suffered serious facial injuries and Mr Apu’Ula’s licence had already been suspended pending the outcome of his trial in the Mackay District Court,” Mr Shine said.
“The security licence was automatically cancelled on conviction.
“Mr Apu’Ula was sentenced to two-and-a-half years’ jail and will not be eligible for parole until 17 March 2009.
“He had already served several months in custody awaiting trial.”
Mr Shine said the latest cancellation reinforced the government’s message that the delivery of security services carried a high level of responsibility and unprofessional behaviour would not be tolerated in the industry.
“Most security providers are very professional and play an important role in maintaining the peace in sometimes challenging circumstances,” he said.
“But we will not hesitate to crack down on those who think their security licence puts them above the law.
“The Queensland Government recently allocated $2 million to implement and enforce the tough new laws that took effect in July.
“Those changes were introduced to enhance public safety by ensuring only appropriate and competent professionals are licensed to operate within the security industry.
“This is the third licence cancelled in recent months.”
Mr Shine said other security providers had lost their licences as a result of violent incidents on the Gold Coast and in far north Queensland.
Media Contact: Chris Taylor 0419 710 874