Cops have no beef with Casino’s 10pm lockout during the height of Beef Week

Anyone wanting an alcoholic drink during Beef Week’s big weekend will need to plan ahead as a 10pm lockout has been unanimously agreed to by the Beef Week Liquor Accord.

LOCKDOWN: Police have confirmed they will be enforcing a 10pm lockout for licenced premises om May 28 and 29, 2021, during Beef Week in Casino.

UPDATE 9.30am: A senior officer from Richmond Police District has confirmed they have been working proactively with Beef Week organisers to bring about the 10pm lockdown.

On Tuesday, May 20, Richmond Police District Acting Inspector Ty Johnson said from their perspective, community safety was the linchpin behind the decision.

“The 10pm lockdown is a joint initiative between the local licensees and the NSW Police as officers from the Casino station in the Richmond Police District aim to reduce any alcohol-related crimes during Beef Week,” he said.

“The lockdown is there to assist the licensees address of levels of intoxicated patrons.

“The lockdown will also assist with compliance with COVID-19 restrictions.”

He said police will be patrolling the local CBD in a concerted effort address any alcohol related issues which may arise.

“The engagement between Richmond Police District and the organisers of Beef Week has been very positive,” Acting Inspector Johnson said.

“We are working together to ensure we have one of the safest Beef Weeks throughout our community in 2021.”

Original story: Anyone wanting a strong drink in Casino on Friday or Saturday night during Beef Week 2021 will need to look for an espresso.

On Wednesday, Richmond Police District announced via social media thar after a Beef Week Liquor Accord meeting, they have decided to a 10pm lockout on both nights.

“The Beef Week Liquor Accord met recently and unanimously agreed to impose a 10pm lockout for all licensed premises in Casino for next Friday the 28th and Saturday the 29th of May during Casino Beef Week,” the police comment said.

“Police would like to take this opportunity to encourage those attending licensed premises in Casino next weekend to make a decision about which licensed premises they wish to attend and make sure they are there well before the doors close at 10pm.”

Richmond Police District said COVID-19 safe check ins and capacities still apply, so people should plan ahead to avoid disappointment.

Beef Week President Frank McKee said he could understand the decision: “The majority of Casino and surrounding residents want the festival to go ahead safely.” Obviously it will this year, but with COVID-19 protocols.” Mr McKee said a 10pm lockout does not mean you have to be in your PJs by then.” As long as people are in a licensed premises by 10pm, then of course they can stay later,” he said.” I hope that everyone will understand that they need to be responsible, we want people to enjoy themselves and do safely.” Mr McKee said the local police had been very helpful with organising the event.

Tell us what you think about the 10pm Lockout to [e-mail]