Bouncer stripped of his licence

A MACKAY bouncer has lost his security licence after being convicted of assaulting a patron in an alley near Doors Nightclub late last year, while off duty.

Attorney-General and Minister for Justice Kerry Shine said Misivila Apu'Ula recently pleaded guilty to a charge of grievous bodily harm, which is a disqualifying offence under the Security Providers Act 1993.

"The patron suffered serious facial injuries," Mr Shine said.

"Mr Apu'Ula was sentenced to two-and-a-half years jail and will not be eligible for parole until March 17, 2009."

He had already served several months in custody awaiting trial.

Doors Nightclub owner Gary Choy said although Apu'Ula worked at the establishment he was not employed as a security guard.

Mr Shine said the latest cancellation reinforced the government's message that the delivery of security services carried a high level of responsibility and unprofessional behaviour would not be tolerated in the industry.

"Most security providers are very professional and play an important role in maintaining the peace in sometimes challenging circumstances," he said.

"But we will not hesitate to crack down on those who think their security licence puts them above the law.

"The Queensland Government recently allocated $2million to implement and enforce the tough new laws that took effect in July. "This is the third licence cancelled in recent months," he said.

The two other bouncers who lost their licences as a result of violent incidents worked on the Gold Coast and in far north Queensland.