Pub slammed for serving NRL journalist Paul Kent 21 schooners

Sydney's Sackville Hotel has been directed to strengthen its responsible service of alcohol (RSA) training following an investigation into Paul Kent’s drinking session before a street altercation that cost him his job.

The former NRL 360 co-host and Daily Telegraph columnist consumed 21 schooners over 11 hours at the Rozelle pub before the late-night brawl in April 2024.

According to Chris Barrett in The Sydney Morning Herald, a Liquor and Gaming NSW investigation found that while most of the drinks were bought by others, concerns remained about RSA compliance at the venue.

As a result, the popular Rozelle pub has been issued an enforceable undertaking under the Liquor Act, requiring additional RSA training and management plan updates to prevent similar incidents.

Kent originally pleaded guilty to affray and was placed on a good behaviour bond after the fracas, but not before his employers at News Corp – he was a high-profile columnist with The Daily Telegraph and a host on NRL 360 – reported they'd parted ways with him.

Kent hit back by filing an unfair dismissal case in the Fair Work Commission, accusing his employers of 24 years of undertaking a "sham" sacking and seeking reinstatement of unpaid wages and entitlements, plus compensation for the deterioration of his mental health.

The parties last year quietly and confidentially reached a settlement.

The Sackville, meanwhile, said it had already implemented refreshed RSA training and updated procedures, reaffirming its commitment to compliance.

Pictured: Paul Kent

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