Community Seminar in Northcliffe - Southern Forests Alcohol and Other

July 2016

MEDIA RELEASE- Southern Forests Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy - what we're doing

The Shire of Manjimup, in collaboration with the Northcliffe Family and Community Centre and St John of God South West Community Alcohol and Drug Service, are hosting two free community seminars on the Southern Forests Alcohol and Other Drug Strategy - 'What we're doing to tackle alcohol and other drug related harm in the community'.The seminars are taking place at the Northcliffe Family and Community Centre on Thursday, 25 August from 5pm-7pm and Friday, 26 from 9am-11am.

Northcliffe Family and Community Centre Manager Oona Ormsby welcomes the opportunity to bring the seminar to Northcliffe, as like many other regional communities, residents have expressed concerns of the harms associated with alcohol and illicit drug use in Northcliffe.

Ms Ormsby said "concerned parents, youth and community members who want to know more about drug trends and its effects are encouraged to attend this informative seminar. There will be an opportunity to express concerns, ask questions, get the facts and debunk myths."

Shire President Wade DeCampo explained that there is often a misconception that because cannabis is not a synthetic drug, it is less harmful than other drugs. "Drug use of any kind can lead to social and emotional problems and have a negative effect on the lives of partners, family and friends of the users".

South West Community Alcohol and Drug Service Manager Jonathon Farr said long term cannabis use can lead to respiratory disorders, risk of cancer, decreased concentration, memory, learning abilities and interference with sex drive. "In addition, cannabis use can also increase the risk of mental health problems, especially in young people. This risk increases the earlier a person starts and the more they use," Mr Farr explained.

The seminar will also address other drugs such as alcohol and methamphetamines.

This initiative is taken from the Southern Forests Alcohol and Other Drug 2016-2018 Strategic Plan, which was recently adopted by Council.

Light refreshments will be provided so RSVPs are essential. Please RSVP to the Northcliffe Family and Community Centre on 97767221 by Friday 19th August.

For further information on the Southern Forests Alcohol Think Again project please contact Assunta Di Francesco on (08) 9771 7778 or via assunta.difrancesco@manjimup.wa.gov.au

Anyone concerned about their own or another person's alcohol or drug use can call the confidential and 24hours/7 days Alcohol and Drug Support Line on 1800 198 024.

-ENDS-

Authorised by Andrew Campbell, Chief Executive Officer

Contact Gina Nieuwendyk, Coordinator Communication and Executive Support

Contact: 9771 7777

Contact for comment: Wade DeCampo, Shire President.

Contact: 0427 094 081