Australian Hotels Association (AHA) NSW director of liquor and policing, John Green, said no figures were available on actual drug use in licensed premises but he highlighted worrying data from NSW Bureau of Crime Statistics and Research. Bureau figures list a 690 per cent rise in use and possession of amphetamines in Tamworth and surrounding areas since 2008. During the same period, NSW hospitalisations due to illicit drug use increased 657 per cent.

Mr Green stressed AHA representatives had a “zero tolerance policy” toward illegal drug use at their venues.

The state director met with Tamworth and Gunnedah publicans on Tuesday to also discuss the good news – a 52.3 per cent drop in violence at licensed Tamworth venues since 2010, the lowest level in 16 years.

“This is a great result for the Tamworth community and demonstrates what can be achieved when stakeholders work together at the local level to address issues,” Mr Green said.

“We have seen a consistent reduction in hotel assaults in the district over several years now and this has come from initiatives driven by the Tamworth Liquor Accord, the local police as well as patrons taking responsibility for their actions.”

Also on the agenda was a review of bottleshop trading hours which Gunnedah hoteliers hope to extend past the current 10pm curfew to midnight.