Macleay Island golf club worker Cindy Richardson nabbed drink driving after celebrating one year ‘dry’

A Macleay Island golf club worker and bookkeeper caught drink driving after celebrating 12 months off the grog told a magistrate she was ashamed of her actions.

Cindy M Richardson leaving Cleveland Magistrates Court.

A Macleay Island golf club worker and bookkeeper has let 12 months of hard work go to waste after she was caught drink driving on her way back from celebrating 12 months clean of alcohol.

Macleay Island resident, Cindy M Richardson, 35, pleaded guilty in Cleveland Magistrates Court today, October 31, to one count of driving while over the middle alcohol limit.

The court heard Ms Richardson was driving home on Macleay Island on October 2 at 7.50pm after celebrating her achievement of remaining 12 months sober.

“She stated she had consumed several drinks prior to driving,” the police prosecutor said.

“She was seen slurring her words.”

She returned a roadside breath test of 0.101 per cent.

Cindy M Richardson leaving Cleveland Magistrates Court.

Ms Richardson, who was self represented, said she was ashamed of her actions.

“I was celebrating my 12 months sober,” Ms Richardson said.

“There’s no excuses. I am an addict and I had a relapse.”

Ms Richardson was told to watch a drink driving video during her court hearing.

“That video is heartbreaking,” she said.

“I’m very happy no one was hurt.

“I’m ashamed and disgusted at myself.”

Magistrate Deborah Vasta said Ms Richardson should stay away from alcohol.

“Alcohol is a poison,” Ms Vasta said.

“You’re very lucky you didn’t hurt anybody.”

Ms Richardson was fined $1000 and disqualified from driving for three months but was granted a work licence.