Alcohol awareness comes to BSC

The cast from Smashed, Nick Sinclair, Phoebe Tweddle and Charlie Smith. (Ivan Kemp) 270599_03

Smashed Live, the global education program dedicated to reducing underage alcohol consumption, came to Ocean Grove to help teens avoid risky behaviours and better understand the dangers of drinking underage.

Facilitated by Gibber Australia, the preventative program was at Bellarine Secondary College with a live theatre performance and interactive workshops delivered by professional actors, supported by teaching resources, a parent’s guide and a comprehensive evaluation framework.

Bellarine Secondary College middle years leader Andrew Grimshaw said the students received the performance, from Nick Sinclair, Phoebe Tweddle and Charlie Smith, enthusiastically.

“The feedback was really good form the kids, the staff thought it was great,” he said.

“It was very engaging and provided a lot of positive information without being judgemental.

“We all know that underage drinking is a big problem and leads to a lot of mental health issues and risky behaviour. Kids we know have been hospitalised for alcohol poisoning.

“Anything that can be done to help them make the right decisions is good.”

Post-performance evaluation of students confirms that 95 per cent have been able to accurately identify the key dangers and risks associated with underage drinking after taking part in the Smashed program, organisers said.