ALPINE Shire councillors will debate whether next year’s Bright Rod Run is alcohol-free following violence and unruly behaviour at last month’s event.
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Local resident John Walker had his throat cut, narrowly missing major arteries, during a brawl in the town and said he was lucky to be alive.
It appeared a piece of glass had been used in the incident, which occurred off Barnard Street.
There were several other fights and a man also had his car impounded after doing burnouts, evading police and being caught at 176km/h.
Police met with event organisers on Thursday to discuss an alcohol ban but could not reach agreement.
Officers want a total ban during the show, while the Bright Rod and Kustom Club wants to only ban alcohol from 6pm onwards each night.
The proposals will be put to councillors and voted on in February.
Sen-Sgt Doug Incoll said in the meantime, discussions would continue.
“The police’s view is to have an alcohol ban during the event, given what occurred this year and the propensity for things to occur at future events,” he said.
“We’re in discussion with the committee.
“Councillors will make their decision based on the information that has been provided to them.”
Event organiser Mike Dealy said it brought about $2.5 million into the town with concerns an alcohol ban could affect attendances.
“We’re very keen to continue the event,” he said.
“It’s a family event and we certainly don’t condone the excessive consumption of alcohol.
“We’ll continue to work with police to ensure the 2015 event is successful.”
Mr Dealy said he understood “where the police were coming from”.
“We oppose the excessive consumption of alcohol anyway,” he said.
Police and event organisers have met on several occasions.
Up to a dozen people were involved in the fight that caused Mr Walker’s injuries, which he said had come within less than a millimetre of major arteries.
