Joshua Murphy, 23, pleaded guilty in Horsham Magistrate’s Court on Wednesday to drink-driving and driving while disqualified.

Magistrate Cynthia Toose fined Murphy $700 without conviction, cancelled his licence and disqualified him from driving for 18 months. 

Police prosecutor First Constable Michelle Wentworth told the court Murphy’s drivers licence was first cancelled on November 17 for drink-driving.

She said police watched Murphy driving his vehicle in Wawunna Road and Lynott Street, Horsham, on May 17 at 2.15pm. 

He then stopped the vehicle and got out.  Police found he had a blood alcohol reading of 0.092. 

When police asked why he was driving without a licence and under the influence of alcohol, Murphy said he was hungry, lazy and stupid.

Murphy was at a friend’s going away party, where he consumed alcohol, before driving home.

The court heard Murphy had almost completed an electrical apprenticeship but was having trouble finding work because he didn’t have a licence.

Ms Toose said Murphy was a good kid who had made a terrible mistake.

“Within six months of driving under the influence, he has done it again,” she said.

“Driving while disqualified can carry an prison sentence.”

Ms Toose said she understood losing a licence in a country area would impact people more heavily than in other areas. 

“I will reduce the fine but I order your licence be cancelled and you be disqualified for 18 months – it is the minimum I can impose,” she said.

She said Murphy has good prospects for rehabilitation.

“You’re just a dill,” she said.