Three key objectives were emphasised to Year 11 students at Bathurst High School yesterday as they completed the ‘Think the Drink’ program.

The program is an initiative of Bathurst Regional Council’s road safety program in conjunction with Bathurst Liquor Accord and the local Quota Club. It is also supported by Australian Training Solutions.

It provides students with their Responsible Service of Alcohol qualification with the aim of educating young people on the problems associated with alcohol abuse.

It is hoped that by doing so, anti-social drinking behaviour will be eliminated from the wider community.

Bathurst Regional Council road safety officer and Liquor Accord executive member Iris Dorsett said the program was tailored specifically to suit young people before they reach the legal drinking age.

“We want the pre-18s to know what behaviour is expected of them in a licensed premises and the consequences of irresponsible drinking,” Ms Dorsett said. “Through the program, students are given the tools to make informed decisions.”

She said the program would not be possible without the support of businesses.

“We’re always looking for more sponsors,” she said.

“The more sponsorship we get, the further this program can reach.

“Ultimately we would love to extend the program to all 17 to 18-year-olds – not just high school students. It all depends on funds though, so if anyone would like to support this initiative they should contact me at council.”

Australian Training Solutions (ATS) provided three instructors for the course. ATS general manager Wayne Tracy said early education was the key to getting the message across.

“By the time these kids have kids, we hope responsible drinking will be common sense,” he said.

“Fifteen years ago, drink driving was acceptable. Now it’s not. Hopefully the same thing happens with regard to irresponsible drinking.”

Last year, more than 3000 people died in NSW as a result of alcohol abuse. It is hoped through programs this statistic will be eliminated.