Lismore uni student Jonathan Smith caught drink driving on Bangalow Rd in Byron Bay

It was a case of too much shochu and vodka, and not enough common sense - now a student has been forced to front a Byron court.

Jonathan James Smith, 26, convicted for drink driving at Byron Bay Local Court on January 9, 2023.

A university student visiting Byron Bay to wind down after exams says he did not know he was drunk when police pulled him over, despite feeling “groggy” and “tired”.

Lismore man Jonathan James Smith faced Byron Bay Local Court on Monday.

The 26-year-old pleaded guilty to drink driving after he was intercepted by police conducting random breath tests on Bangalow Rd, Byron Bay about 10.30am on December 18.

The Southern Cross University environmental science student was in Byron to celebrate the end of exams, according to court documents.

Smith downed about ten cans of Suntory-196 Double Lemon up to about 4am on the day.

He slept for some time at the The Surf House Byron Bay before be hit the road in a Hyundai Getz and was busted by RBT officers.

Uni student Smith was visiting busy Byron Bay after exams.

Officers said Smith’s breath “smelt of intoxicating liquor” and he blew 0.139 - approaching three times the legal limit, police documents state.

Defence lawyer Jessica Meech told the court Smith took steps to avoid drink driving, including sleeping.

“He thought he was groggy because he was hung over and tired, he did not know he was intoxicated,” she said.

Magistrate Karen Stafford fined Smith $400 - a reduced amount for university students.

Smith’s licence was suspended for three months and he must use an interlock for one year when he is allowed on the road again.