Plan for addict clinic divides

COOLANGATTA is divided over plans to open a methadone clinic in an arcade in the main street.

Experts say a clinic that weans addicts off heroin and pain killers would make the town safer. They have expressed cautious support from some business owners who say they understand the need.

But other traders do not want a clinic in Griffith St.

Pharmacist Stuart Craven, who lodged an application in late June with Queensland Health to operate a “controlled drug administration facility’’ in an arcade at 14 Griffith St, has promised no needles will be used because addicts are treated with oral medication.

Mr Craven, who has been a pharmacist for seven years, said he worked for more than three years with opioid addicts at controlled drugs administration facilities at Mermaid Beach and Southport.

“I have made it my goal in life to help those affected by opioids, helping them not only with the physical dependency upon the medication but to help them regain a self-worth and confidence in themselves,’’ he told the Bulletin.

“I want to remind people that the clients who are in need of these facilities are fathers, mothers, sons and daughters, brothers and sisters, nephews and nieces, even grandparents, we are all affected by opioids in some way.”

He said Griffith St was central and near public transport.

“Perhaps half of the clients who require the facility will be dependent upon public transport, and this can be a hurdle for some continuing their treatment,” Mr Craven said.

But Greater Southern Gold Coast Chamber of Commerce president Hilary Jacobs said members were opposed to the clinic due to its location.

“They are concerned because it is next to holiday accommodation. With parents and children around, it is not a suitable location,” she said.

Bells Beach Reality director Sue Bell, whose business is next to the proposed clinic, is also landlord of the shop it will occupy. She said Coolangatta had a drug problem.

“I have a problem with drug addicts in my alley and I have to call the cops on them,” she said.

“At least this will contain it to a certain area, control it and eventually reduce the amount of drugs in the area.”

National Drug Research Institute professor Nicole Lee said opiod replacement therapy was the best practice in dealing with addictions.

The clinic would operate from 6.30am-11.30am and 3pm-5.30pm on weekdays. Queensland Health said a decision was likely later this month.