Most people think that prohibition was a failed law enacted in the United States of America in 1919 - and that it has no place here in modern Australia. They would be wrong - and breaking it could be a costly mistake.
Parts of northern Queensland, the Northern Territory and northern Western Australia are designated " no alcohol " zones in an attempt to reduce the harm caused by alcohol dependence. It is a crime to be in possession of any form of alcohol within these zones.
What many people do not realise is that this applies to travellers passing through on the main highways. The most likely victims are the " Gray Nomads " - retirees who have bought a four wheel drive and a caravan - and set off to see Australia. The caravan is their travelling home - and they enjoy a quiet drink in the evening.
The police have every right to maintain road blocks - and search cars and caravans for liquor at any time of the day or night. Even that part bottle of cooking sherry in the food cupboard is a technical breach of the law - and can result in a heavy fine or even a period of incarceration.
Alcohol free zones are clearly signposted and travellers are urged to take them seriously - in similar manner to areas in which it is illegal to take fruit because of possible fruit fly transfer. Those planning a trip in northern Australia would be well advised to do their homework - and obtain maps showing where alcohol free zones apply even on main highways that pass through them.
It may seem a strange law - and even an infringement on civil liberties to those southerners who enjoy a beer at days end - but it is the law and it is strictly enforced in that part of Australia.
Ignore it at your peril !
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