Sin beyond Surfers? Young people's risky behaviour during Schoolies Week in three Queensland regions

The present study investigated substance use and interpersonal conflict within the previous 24 hours of young people celebrating Schoolies Week in the Queensland Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast or Wide Bay regions. Questionnaires were completed by 291 males and 367 females, who were predominantly 17 or 18 years old and Queensland residents. Participants engaged in very high levels of drinking, marijuana and ecstasy use in comparison to relevant population statistics. Males were heavier marijuana users and drinkers than were females, and suffered more negative consequences of drinking. They also experienced more interpersonal conflict, although females were more likely to report being sexually harassed. Behaviour was riskier at the Gold Coast than elsewhere, with males within regions engaging in riskier behaviour. Drinkers were more likely to report using marijuana and alcohol, and suffering from the consequences of alcohol, than were non-drinkers. The data suggest that harm minimization interventions targeted at Schoolies Week participants are needed in all areas in which Schoolies Week are celebrated, although there is a particular need at the Gold Coast. These data also suggest that current interventions may be inadequate in preventing harm to participants, and may need to focus on participants' expectations of the consequences of celebrations.