The session was delivered by a facilitator, who spoke mainly about drink- and drug-affected driving. 

I spoke about some of the consequences of drug and alcohol misuse from a legal perspective. 

I was very impressed with the attitude of the football and netball players, who all listened attentively to the information being provided. 

It is timely that the message is delivered to the wider community, especially as we approach the month of football finals and end-of-season trips. 

Some of the points about being a good mate included:

don’t drink and drive;

don’t pressure your friends to drive if they have been drinking or taking drugs; and

 look out for each other. 

During the presentation at Golden Square I spoke about the consequences of drink-driving, illicit drug 

use and alcohol-fuelled violence. 

I highlighted the fact that one punch can, and has killed in the past. 

The ‘‘one-punch’’ campaign has been widely publicised in the media of late. 

The easiest way to avoid confrontation is to walk away. 

I am not against people having a good time, but ask that we all look after our mates. 

So don’t drink and drive or take drugs and drive. 

Sportspeople, during your end-of-season trips and celebrations do the right thing, be responsible and look after each other. 

Police will be out in force over the coming months leading up to and over the Christmas break. 

If you do not want to do the right thing then one of the consequences will be that you will come under the notice of the police and potentially the courts. 

However, the consequences can be much greater and every day we read or see news about the consequences of drink-driving and alcohol-fuelled violence. 

When the results are death or serious injury, whole communities, families and friendship groups are affected.