And the Goondiwindi region certainly has them.

“All communities do,” says Goondiwindi Alcohol and Drug Support Project Officer, Cheryle Kaesler of Drug Arm.

But “drug problems” go far beyond popping pills and pricking needles into your arm.

“We’re lucky in Goondiwindi. Harder drugs such as heroin aren’t a huge problem,” she said.

However binge drinking, a “culture” of amphetamine use, alcohol-fuelled domestic violence and addiction to tobacco all exist and the cost is high.

“We often turn a blind eye to things such as alcohol and tobacco. Illicit drugs such as cannabis get far more attention.

“My role is to work in these areas as well but our scope is far broader,” she said.

“How often do we sit in front of the television watching footy and say, ‘Hey son, go an get me a beer’. Education is a key, and realising little things can make a difference.

“I often talk to young men, teenagers and tell them to drink water between drinks. They say they couldn’t do that in front of their mates. I tell them to go to the bathroom and fill their stubbie up with water.

“It makes a difference and I’ve had some come back and tell that’s what they are doing. Sometimes it is not about telling them not to do something, but giving them practical information that they will use.

“It’s all about minimising harm,” she said.

The number one priority is letting people know that help is there if they need it; that there is someone they can talk to.

For many, that person is “Aunt Cheryle”.

“Just talking about it can do wonders”.

And that’s everything from trying to quit smoking to dealing with aggression that leads to domestic violence.

She said having someone to talk to can break a vicious cycle

“(Binge drinking and amphetamine taking) is the ‘in thing’, it’s a culture and one where they often lose self esteem and pride in themselves. They get into trouble, have assault charges laid against them and when they come off whatever they are on, their depression only increases,” she said.

Her message is simple. “You are not alone”

“Don’t try to deal with these problems by yourself. We’re here to help,” she said.

Cheryle has clients from Talwood to Inglewood including Boggabilla and Toomelah.

Ages range from 14 to 70.

She sees at least 40 people a month. If you need help phone 46712197.A

nd one more thing.

Cheryle believes the tax on so-called “alcopops” is “ludicrous”.

“Kids just buy bottles and finish up drinking more,” she said.