Unfair to blame hotel for brawl, says manager

Rockingham Hotel manager Brian Jarick says it is “unfair” to blame the venue for confrontations that occur outside, after hours, after a brawl broke out in front of the venue at the weekend.

A police spokeswoman said police were called to the venue on Kent Street about 9pm on Sunday by St John Ambulance who reported a fight was preventing ambulance officers helping a woman who had collapsed on the footpath.

It was reported a person was sitting on the woman and refusing to let her be treated.

Police reported the scene was hostile and one of the officers was struck to the face.

As a result, a 54-year-old Shoalwater man was charged with assaulting a public officer.

Mr Jarick said the hotel was closed by 8.45pm and it was unfair to say those involved had attended the venue prior.

“I believe it creates a negative image not only on the venue but also on the industry,” he said. “I don’t think it is fair, because the people involved could have come from anywhere and I don’t think it is fair that it is reflected on us or any other venue if something like that transpires.”

Mr Jarick said the hotel did not condone or allow violence.

“If we have refused service or asked somebody to leave, we actually ask them to vacate the immediate vicinity as well as the premises.”