A drink-spiking incident has left a University of Wollongong student hospitalised, following what was supposed to be a fun night out with friends.
The incident occurred on Thursday, September 5 at a popular nightlife venue.
Law and International Studies student Mia Saxon was celebrating when her night took an unexpected turn.
“I purchased about three drinks and got really sick really fast, and my friends had to take me to hospital, and I was there overnight.”
“I don’t remember anything, which is very scary,” Saxon said.
Ms Saxon discussed her concerns about reporting the incident to authorities.
“The thing is with reporting a spiking, it doesn’t really go anywhere, especially because half of the time it’s just going to be written off as having too much to drink.”
“But I knew from my experience, four drinks were not enough to make me unconscious and violently vomit,” she said.
The Alcohol and Drug Foundation states that very little is known about drink spiking because it’s hard to determine without extensive testing.
In 2023, 2,131 drink-spiking cases were reported in NSW.
Bartender Hayley Vilkaitis discussed strategies venues use to monitor drink spiking to prevent further cases.
“If we see a drink sitting unattended, we have to take it. We also keep an eye on drinks after we serve it at the bar,” Hayley said.
Ms Saxon reported she couldn’t eat for a few days after the incident.
A UOWTV mini documentary made in 2019, showcases victims like Ms Saxon coming forward about their experiences.
Ms Vilkaitis believes more can be done by venues to prevent drink spiking such as bag checks.
“The main thing is to watch your drinks, one thing I see a lot is people leaving their drinks on the bench while they dance, which I really wouldn’t do.”
“Be very vigilant,” she said.
Anyone who believes they have been a victim of a drink-spiking incident is encouraged to seek medical advice and report the matter to the police. Reports can be made by contacting or attending your local police station.
