The licensee of a Wollongong pub has been fined $2500 over an incident where an intoxicated patron vomited in the venue’s toilets after winning a $100 bar tab.

In Downing Centre Local Court on January 25, Hotel Illawarra licensee Wendy Sims pleaded guilty to allowing intoxication as a result of a Liquor & Gaming NSW investigation.

In facts presented to the Court, Liquor & Gaming NSW inspectors attended the Keira St venue on the night of February 22, 2018.

At about 12.20am, a female inspector saw vomit emerging from a cubicle in the women’s toilets.

A female patron later exited the cubicle and appeared unsteady on her feet.

When questioned by the inspectors, the woman said she was “really drunk” and had won a $100 bar tab at the hotel. 

Liquor & Gaming NSW Director of Compliance Operations, Sean Goodchild, said the Hotel Illawarra has been banned from running any future bar tab competitions.

“Such promotions are generally permitted but they must comply with responsible service of alcohol requirements,” he said.

“This case highlights the need for licensed venues to ensure competitions with alcohol as prizes do not endanger patrons.

“Such actions can lead to serious alcohol-related harm and jeopardise community safety.

“Licensees who do not appropriately manage intoxication at their venue can expect to serious penalties.”