He became the first person to have the mandatory alcohol interlock provisions applied after the legislation came into force on February 2.

Just four days later, Emmerton-Hancock was caught for a drink-driving offence and it was his second such matter in less than five years.

That is what brought about the interlock provisions which will be applied for four years after he has served a six-month disqualification.

Solicitor Mark Cronin said the installation fee for an interlock was about $1800 along with a monthly servicing fee of about $140.

Mr Cronin said that will add a significant financial burden to Emmerton-Hancock, a concreter, who will be restricted with work.

Emmerton-Hancock, 24, of Schaeffer Street, pleaded guilty in Albury Local Court to a charge of middle-range drink-driving.

The court was told police saw a Mitsubishi Triton travelling in Barlow Street about 10.32pm on February 6 before turning into Wagga Road.

Emmerton-Hancock was stopped for a random breath-test, gave a positive reading and a later breath analysis at the police station was 0.104.

He admitted drinking heavy beer and was driving someone to a shop.

Mr Cronin said Emmerton-Hancock and his partner had guests for dinner.

“He had absolutely no intention of driving,” Mr Cronin said.

One of his friends said he wanted to attend a shop and without thinking Emmerton-Hancock offered to drive.

Mr Cronin said Emmerton-Hanock is a self-employed concreter and coaches the Rand-Walbundrie under-17 football team.

Magistrate Tony Murray said the drink-driving penalties have increased under the interlock legislation.

Mr Murray said Emmerton-Hancock falls into the category of being a repeat offender, but there were no factors of aggravation with his driving.

His partner is expecting their first child and Emmerton-Hancock’s income will be cut.

Mr Murray said he took into consideration the high cost of installing an interlock when imposing a $400 fine along with the disqualification.