Woman Faces Court After Early Morning Motorbike Incident in Woonona
A 29-year-old Russell Vale woman has been convicted and fined for drink-driving on a children's motorcycle following a late-night drinking session in Woonona. Shannan Karly Larnio pleaded guilty in Wollongong Local Court on Tuesday to mid-range prescribed concentration of alcohol (PCA) and driving without ever holding a licence.
Police Intercept Leads to Arrest
Just before 2am on November 14 last year, police patrolling Park Road in Woonona spotted a small motorcycle being ridden without headlights. Officers stopped the rider, later identified as Larnio, and upon requesting her licence, discovered she had never held one. After returning a positive roadside alcohol reading, she was arrested and taken to Wollongong Police Station.
In custody, Larnio recorded a secondary alcohol reading of 0.149, narrowly missing the high-range threshold of 0.150. Her solicitor, Vanja Pjevalica, acknowledged the seriousness of the offence in court, stating that Larnio had been drinking with a friend and made a reckless decision to ride the motorbike, which is typically used by her children.
Magistrate Warns of Danger and 'Dodged Bullet'
Magistrate David Williams remarked that Larnio had 'dodged a bullet', as the incident occurred just six days past the five-year window from a previous similar charge. Had it been within that timeframe, it would have triggered a second offence with stricter penalties. He noted that Larnio had completed eight weeks of a treatment program and was 'taking steps in the right direction' by avoiding alcohol.
However, Magistrate Williams emphasised the peril of her actions, highlighting that her reading was 'as close as you can get' to high-range without crossing the line. 'She is very lucky to be alive with that reading in those circumstances,' he said, underscoring the risks involved in operating a vehicle under the influence.
Outcome and Implications
Larnio was convicted and fined $1100 for the offences. The case serves as a stark reminder of the legal and safety consequences of drink-driving, particularly when involving unlicensed operation of vehicles. Authorities continue to stress the importance of responsible behaviour on the roads to prevent such incidents.
