The Sun-Herald
By Kate Cox, 9 March 2003

Handbag test for date-rape drugs

There is a new weapon in the fight against drug rape.

Along with their lipstick, mobile phones and money, Sydney women can now pack business card-sized spiked-drink detector kits in their handbags.

Coasters that test for drugs in drinks are also available and cocktail swizzle sticks and other possible testers are being developed.

Paul Dillon, information manager at the National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, said that increased drink spiking - and drug rape - in Sydney's pubs and clubs had led to several consumer products being developed here.

"Anything that assists in preventing a crime is totally worthwhile, although we have to be very careful that we don't lull people into a false sense of security," he said.

"This is something that contributes to reduction of harm and it also makes people think more about their alcohol consumption, which is especially important for young women."

Mr Dillon said that Drink Safe Technologies had spent a year researching and testing the effectiveness of the product with police and forensic scientists.

But most young people in CBD bars said they would be unlikely to use the new spiked-drink detectors, which cost $9.95 for six tests from website www.drinksafetech.com.au.

The tests can identify two of the most popular date-rape drugs: gamma-hydroxybutyrate (GHB) and ketamine - although some drinks, such as fruit juices and milks, are unable to be tested.

Users rub a drop of liquid on the cardboard: if the spot turns from tan to blue-green, the drink is spiked. Melanie Cleverdon, 29, believes her drink was spiked on New Year's Eve two years ago, but even that wouldn't encourage her to use the testers.

Beth Basman of Leichhardt said she would be more likely to rely on her friends.

A plastic cap that fits over bottled beers and drinks so they can't be tampered with is also being considered and pubs and clubs are being urged to post signs on the back of toilet doors and warning stickers on drinks left unattended.

Police and scientists are continuing development of a cocktail swizzle stick that can be left in drinks the whole time, changing colour the moment drinks have been tampered with.