BWS and Larrakia Nation partner to enforce safety and respect

BWS and Larrakia Nation have partnered in a bold move to stop the violence and teach respect at liquor outlets in the Territory.

Darwin CBD BWS features new signage from Larrakia Nation. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

A landmark partnership is pairing respect with alcohol sales as the Territory navigates through a crime crisis.

BWS customers are leaving stores with a seven-point guide to cultural respect alongside their favourite bevvies.

It comes as Larrakia Nation develops a “close relationship” with Endeavour Group to keep Territorians safe at takeaway liquor outlets.

Larrakia Nation CEO Michael Rotumah said the partnership had been in the works for “some time” and he hoped to see it flourish long-term.

“We think this relationship has the potential to bring about some really positive outcomes for the community and all visitors to Darwin,” he said.

“The purpose of the partnership is to support the broader community in navigating some of the challenges we’re collectively facing right now.

“We hope this partnership will build a broader community awareness of the cultural protocols when visiting Larrakia land.”

Darwin CBD BWS features new signage from Larrakia Nation. Picture: Pema Tamang Pakhrin

As part of the partnership, Larrakia Nation signage is visible next to BWS entrances and security officers are handing out information cards outlining the Larrakia cultural protocols for respect.

An Endeavour Group spokeswoman said the company looked forward to developing its relationship with Larrakia Nation further.

The Top End community has responded positively to the new partnership, saying any help is a “good step in the right direction”.

“The Larrakia Nation rangers do a good job of reminding people to be respectful and behave when people come into Darwin,” one person wrote on Facebook.

“A nice message everyone could stand to listen to,” said another.

“Good on them.”