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Article Mellville Courier 03/02/2011 (Sorry, can't do links.)
"Rugby Club Goes Dry
In what is believed to be a first in Australia, and possibly a world first outside of the Muslim IRB countries, a Western Australian club has decided to 'go dry'.
The Palmyra Club, in Perth's leafy southern suburbs has banned all alcohol and alcohol consumption from its club premises and the sporting fields under it's control.
The decision was taken at the club's January meeting, and followed a long process of consultation, conducted last year, with various Local, Federal and State Government bodies, the AMA and other accredited Sporting and Heath Agencies.
Club President Mr Kim Short, in an exclusive interview with the Melville Courier said
"This was not a decision we as a club took lightly, and it was touch and go whether the resolution would be passed by the Board. However in the end we had to take account of our players' and members' best interests and bite the bullet. Alcohol is a dangerous drug that promotes family dysfunction and violence. If they [the players and members] have to be protected from themselves, then we are up to the task."
Mr Short admitted the decision was not popular amongst the membership, and that a number of players had left the club because of it. He also acknowledged that the club's finances would be adversely affected by the decision.
"We are not afraid to take a hit " he said. We have had discussions with Hillsong [Ministries Of Fire] and they will help provide whatever counselling is required.
We have also been encouraged by sponsorship offers from various welfare groups, including Women's Referral Centre and the Salvation Army's job location services. We are also seeking Government assistance by way of a Research Grant into inebriation rates amongst athletes and variables affecting alcohol consumption and withdrawal."
While other sporting groups are looking quizically at the Palmyra Club's brave decision, no one can doubt their sincerity in seeking to eliminate what they perceive to be a blight on society."