Magistrate's 'harsh' warning to drink-driving childcare worker

Baradine woman Gemma Fitzgerald appeared in Dubbo Local Court for sentencing on Wednesday, January 15, after pleading guilty to mid-range drink-driving.

Fitzgerald's lawyer asked the court to consider a non-conviction for his client as she works in childcare and is studying psychology with hopes to become a social worker.

But magistrate Brett Shields said a non-conviction for drink-driving was "unacceptable".

"It often leads to tragic circumstances... drink-driving is prevalent and there's a clear need for general deterrence," he told the 21-year-old.

"People are jailed for it. I understand it's probably been a shock for you to end up here... but I'm a Deputy State Coroner and I've seen the results of it. I've seen it far too often.

"Every alcohol-related death on our road is avoidable. It doesn't have to happen."

According to court documents, about 12.10am on Sunday, December 7, 2024, Fitzgerald was driving a white Suzuki Vitara west along Aberford Street in Coonamble.

When she was approximately 80 metres from Quambone Road she was stopped for a random breath test.

Police approached the car and spoke with Fitzgerald, her breath smelled of alcohol. Fitzgerald underwent a roadside breath test which came back positive after four attempts.

She was placed under arrest and taken back to Coonamble Police Station for further analysis which returned a reading of 0.112 grams of alcohol.

She admitted to drinking five vodka lime and soda at the Terminus Hotel at Railway Street in Coonamble.

She pleaded guilty to mid-range drink-driving at Coonambe Local Court on December 7, 2024.

Magistrate Shields convicted her of the charge.

She was given the minimum disqualification period of three months and an $850 fine. When she is eligible to drive again she will have to use an interlock device for 12 months.

"I know you probably think this is harsh but it might save your life or someone else's in the future," he said.