Bathurst Local Court this week heard each incident took place on October 8 last year and involved a 16-year-old volunteer who purchased cigarettes without being asked for their age or proof of identity.

A GWAHS spokesman said the operation was part of a tobacco compliance unit, which is required to test 10 per cent of tobacco sellers in the area each year.

Retailers are tested on sales to minors, advertising, and the smoke free campaign.

The test involves a volunteer minor between the age of 14 and 16 who enters stores and tries to buy cigarettes.

On Monday, Imelda Therese Williams, 54, of Logan Street, Eglinton pleaded guilty and apologised to the court.

“I’m very, very sorry. I did sell cigarettes to a minor. I was distracted by a person in the shop acting suspicious,” she said.

Robert Brian Theobald, 46, of Stewart Street also pleaded guilty.

“I’m very sorry to be here today. It will never happen again,” he said.

Another defendant was Tracey Lee Seaman, 32, of North Street, Perthville.

Magistrate Thomas Hodgson told Seaman it was a very serious offence.

“My opinion of the offence is that it’s not appropriate and the message needs to get out there,” Mr Hodgson said.

Steven John Stuard, 35, of Sydney Road, Kelso was also charged. All defendants were ordered to pay $500 each and $70 in court costs.

The GWAHS spokesperson said the program’s volunteers received a gift voucher and were put through a training regime with their parents.

“They volunteer to participate and we often have a waiting list of participants to be involved in the program,” the spokesperson said.

“It’s not only important but it’s required. Any measure combating underage smoking is vital for any health service. GWAHS certainly takes this program seriously.”

Three other cases involved in the GWAHS

operation were adjourned to June 23.