THE ambulance union has flagged concerns regarding increased pressure on emergency services ahead of the opening of two new clubs in the CBD this week.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Element Nightclub will open this Friday at the Miners Tavern. Formally trading as The Bended Elbow, the Lydiard Street venue can cater for 1000 people and is open till 3am.
Freight Bar and Restaurant, on the corner of Mair and Peel streets, will have its grand opening tonight for a select few who are invited.
The venue can hold up to 550 people and is open till 1am.
The opening of the two upmarket venues is being hailed as a positive step for the Ballarat nightlife.
But Ambulance Employees Australia, Victorian branch secretary Steve McGhie said it could mean more demand for assistance for alcohol-affected revellers.
“People can fall and hurt themselves; there are situations where there are fights and brawls and also assaults that have been caused by alcohol abuse,” Mr McGhie said.
“These two openings will only increase the demand on the services.”
Mr McGhie said treating and transporting alcohol-affected people also required extra resources.
However, Ballarat police Senior Sergeant Peter McCormick said police numbers were adequate to handle any disturbances.
“Since we have had the increase in Ballarat police over the last 18 months, we are better placed now to maintain extra patrol on a Friday and Saturday night,” Senior Sergeant McCormick said.
“We will be monitoring the situation and behaviour coming out of these licensed premises. And I am sure as new owners they will endeavour to provide a safe entertainment venue.”
Element nightclub owner Simon Whiting said the club had a strict responsible service of alcohol policy as well as a rigorous security system.
“We have got a full HD camera system right throughout the venue and surrounding area,” Mr Whiting said.
Freight Bar and Restaurant manager Daniel Rush said the revamped venues had lifted the standard of nightlife in Ballarat.
“I think quality environments provide more quality people, which would help decrease the violence and drunkard behaviour,” he said.
Ambulance Victoria group manager Graham McGrath said they would continue to monitor demand for services in the area to ensure the best possible coverage.
neelima.choahan@fairfaxmedia.com.au