Trent Jordan Cash, 24, of William Street Bathurst, appeared before magistrate Michael Allen last week, on a mid-range PCA charge, with a reading of 0.104.

Cash’s solicitor Shane Cunningham told the court his client had been drinking at a friend’s house, and had planned to stay at their home.

However, another friend arrived and the group decided to go out.

“Mr Cash didn’t want to go out, and because it wasn’t his house, couldn’t stay at the home,” he said.

Mr Cunningham said his client then made the decision to drive home, which is when he was pulled over by police for a random breath test.

Mr Cunningham said there were no aggravating features to his client’s arrest,.

He put the decision to drive down to poor judgement and asked the magistrate to consider the minimum disqualification period.

He told the court Cash was an accomplished musician, who was in his final year at university.

He said his client plays at various locations throughout the Central West.

Mr Cunningham said his client also taught young musicians in their home, something he can no longer do since losing his licence on April 14.

Mr Allen read Cash’s references, noting he also gave his time freely to help those less fortunate them himself. “It appears you’re a well-engaged young man,” Mr Allen said. “You’re a talented young man who gives of his time to help the less fortunate.”

Mr Allen saw Cash had a real need for a licence, was of good character and said he held great optimism for his future.

He agreed to the minimum sentence, disqualifying cash for six months, taking Cash’s licence suspension into account.

He also fined Cash $400, and $81 in court costs. “The message is simple, don’t drink and drive,” he said.