Anecdotal evidence has for the past decade or more shown an increase in recreational drug use in the Wimmera – much like the rest of Victoria.

Walk into any toilets during a busy night out at many regional pubs or nightclubs, and there is likely to have been drug use occurring in the toilets.

More than one person in a toilet cubicle, constantly touching one’s nose as they come out of the bathroom, or sometimes it is as blatant as passing on the drugs in full view of others.

And it is not just at licensed premises – it’s happening at parties, at sporting club functions and of course inside homes, and everyone just seems to turn a blind eye to it.

Unfortunately it’s becoming an accepted part of partying – and can often be a cheaper option over buying alcohol.

The latest report from the National Wastewater Drug Monitoring Program shows the consumption of illicit drugs such as cocaine, fentanyl, heroin, ketamine, MDMA and methylamphetamine is on the rise across Victoria. 

The Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission’s report draws on anonymised wastewater samples from sites across Australia, exposing evidence of entrenched drug demand.

Through crime authorities analysing the report, the reach of serious and organised crime groups, and signals of emerging substances shaping the nation’s illicit drug landscape are uncovered.

Across the reporting period, wastewater analysis shows methylamphetamine consumption reached the highest levels recorded since the program started in 2016, with drug use in capital cities and regional areas exceeding all previous annual averages.

Nationally, cocaine consumption reached record highs, continuing a multi-year upward trajectory, while heroin consumption has fluctuated, with regional consumption in August 2025 the second highest on record.

Regional areas continued to record substantially higher per capita consumption of methylamphetamine, cannabis and oxycodone compared with capital cities, while also having a relatively higher excretion levels of MDA than the national average. The findings highlight the role wastewater intelligence plays in the national security and public health architecture. 

ACIC chief executive Heather Cook said the data presented an ‘unfiltered look at the pressures facing Australian communities’. 

“High‑risk stimulant use continues to burden emergency services, families and frontline responders,” she said.

“These aren’t abstract figures – they represent real harm and real consequences playing out in hospitals, homes and communities across the country.”

Member for Lowan and shadow minister for mental health, Emma Kealy, said the suggested increased use of drugs demonstrated Victoria’s illicit drug market was continuing to flourish, with criminal networks targeting regional towns and cities. 

“High-risk drug use affects not just the individual, it impacts our emergency services, our police, and our regional communities,” she said.

“Vulnerable Victorians are suffering as the alcohol and drug treatment system is overwhelmed by chronic demand. When our youth in particular need help to access drug and alcohol treatment, too often they can’t get it.”

People who witness suspicious behaviour connected to drugs are encouraged to report it. Speaking up can help protect the community and support ongoing investigations. To provide anonymous information, contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a report online at crimestoppers.com.au.

Anyone needing treatment or support options in relation to drugs is advised to contact their doctor or call the National Alcohol and Other Drug Hotline on 1800 250 015.

The entire June 3, 2026 edition of The Weekly Advertiser is available online. READ IT HERE!