Policy and Advocacy: Alcohol, Matters of Substance article

Steve Walsh is now sober and enjoying a life of mountain biking and art galleries. When he takes the field at this year’s Rugby World Cup, he’ll be back at the peak of his game as an international rugby referee. Steve talks to Keri Welham.

The eyes of the rugby-loving world will be on New Zealand this spring as we host the 2011 Rugby World Cup, but while moderate drinking may be part of the event for many, agencies and sports leaders alike have serious concerns for those who will drink to excess and potentially become aggressive, obnoxious, violent and dangerously disoriented. Keri Welham asks how do you control a booze-fuelled sports crowd and what is being done to ensure this party doesn’t turn ugly?

The Australian Drug Foundation says it is important parents understand the critical role they play in introducing children to alcohol. Parents are currently one of the main sources of alcohol for young people, so it is vital that they teach their children about it and how to act responsibly. When it comes to teaching children about alcohol, remember the three Rs:

It once marketed itself as the party university, but now the University of Otago’s academic reputation is under threat internationally because of the binge-drinking and bacchanalian revelry of its students. The university is trying to reverse its drinking culture, but how much can it achieve when, across society, drinking to excess has become the norm for the young?