Three cars were impounded and nine drivers were detected exceeding the prescribed alcohol limit following the Elmore B&S Summer Send Off Ball. 

Despite a prominent police presence, and a breath testing service offered within the venue, Sergeant Mick McCrann of Bendigo Highway Patrol said a disappointing number of alcohol-affected people chose to drive.

“It’s really disappointing for them to think it would be okay,” Sergeant McCrann said.

Nine police units were stationed at and around the event at the Elmore Events Centre on Saturday.

Police conducted more than 830 preliminary oral fluid tests, of which one of the highest blood alcohol concentration readings recorded was 0.118.

A probationary driver from Maryborough was among those to record a positive test, with a BAC of 0.024 at 9.15am. 

Though disappointed by the results of the Elmore B&S ball traffic operation, Bendigo police commended the crowds at events such as the AFL pre-season match between Geelong and Essendon and the Bendigo International Madison on their conduct.