Drink Rite is a Queensland Police Service program that aims to promote a responsible attitude towards alcohol consumption and drink driving. Drink Rite began as a state-wide intersectoral project in 1995 involving Queensland Health, Queensland Transport and the Queensland Police Service. This program is now managed by Drug and Alcohol Coordination within the Queensland Police Service.
A Drink Rite event is usually held in a licensed premise where six people are chosen to consume alcohol under controlled drinking conditions and are monitored over a period of time. Participants are breath tested every half an hour and their readings are placed on a whiteboard for viewing by other patrons. These results are then discussed.
Drink Rite illustrates how much variation there is in the effect of alcohol from person to person, particularly between men and women. This practical approach demonstrates how few drinks it may take to exceed the legal limits set for driving and reinforces the message that attempting to estimate breath alcohol concentration levels is difficult and not recommended. The program also demonstrates the benefits of drinking low versus high alcohol beverages.
As a proactive strategy, Drink Rite can be used to approach a variety of alcohol-related issues on a state-wide basis. Drink Rite may also be used as an education and prevention strategy by complementing local events. The program provides information on a range of topics such as alcohol and road or water safety and standard drinks. In this way, Drink Rite can be adapted to suit different regions within Queensland and community needs.
Drink Rite events are supported by Castlemaine Perkins, Foster’s and Diageo Australia who provide alcohol for each event.
Drink Rite reinforces the message that if you are planning on drinking alcohol – don’t drive.
Source: Queensland Police website
