While Tamworth appears to be winning the war against
alcohol-fuelled violence thanks to the cooperation of the pubs and clubs industry and some proactive policing, the recent deaths of two people in other areas highlights the seriousness of
the issue.
In both cases the victims were
“king- hit”.
A week does not go by without some serious assault incident occurring somewhere, usually at or near licensed premises. Last week it was another episode in Sydney’s north west with the victim being placed in a coma to aid his recovery.
This does not suggest hotels, bars and clubs are at fault. The problem here is the people who cannot control their drinking and who have violent
tendencies.
It is sickening that some people go out with the purpose of committing a
violent act because it provides some cheap thrill. The potential
consequences of their actions are
not considered.
The combination of alcohol, bravado and recklessness, usually in young males, is a recipe for trouble.
Sydney’s King Cross has long been a trouble spot for this type of behaviour. While police are taking their own action to nab the troublemakers, others are attempting to educate young people to avoid confrontation.
This is often easier said than done, particularly when easy victims are picked out of the crowd and are given
no warning before being attacked.
But those who fight back, wanting to settle the score, are also placing
themselves at risk.
The campaign to encourage young people to walk away and not engage in an exchange of violence is admirable, but is not a cure.
Violence, it seems, has a strong foothold in our society, fuelled by all sorts of triggers.
Tougher penalties for assault and antisocial behaviour might be a
deterrent to some, but counselling and rehabilitation for those who want to be violent might be a better outcome.