Festival organiser Sandra Beynon is contesting a $774 fine issued by the Office of Liquor and Gaming Regulation (OLGR) following a year-long investigation into the Jazz Blues and Koala festival held at Griffith University, Nathan in October 2023.
The free festival, organised by Beynon’s company under a community liquor permit, designated the Queensland Koala Crusaders as the beneficiary of all bar profits. However, the OLGR’s investigation, which included obtaining four warrants and extensive financial searches, alleges discrepancies in reported amounts for liquor sales and mishandling of raffle money donations.
Beynon strongly denies any wrongdoing, attributing the issues to clerical and technological errors involving amounts less than $200. She claims to have incurred a loss of $179 from the event.
The investigation’s findings suggest that total net sales were higher than initially reported by Beynon. Documents from financial services company Square reportedly showed net sales takings of $1048.71, after administrative fees.
Beynon argues that she was never given the opportunity to rectify any issues before being fined. She plans to challenge the fine at the Queensland Civil and Administrative Tribunal, following the denial of her formal request to waive the penalty on September 20.
Brisbane City councillor Steve Griffiths, who awarded a $5000 grant to the festival, stated that the grant did not cover bar expenses and that all event-based costs were correctly accounted for.
Queensland Koala Crusaders president Linda Barnes confirmed receiving only raffle proceeds and a $237.27 donation from Beynon months after the event.
The case raises questions about the regulation of community events and the challenges faced by organisers in complying with liquor licensing requirements. As the situation unfolds, it highlights the importance of clear financial reporting and communication between event organisers, beneficiaries, and regulatory bodies.
Published 8-October-2024