Zachary Miller, 23, of Warrumyea Road, pleaded guilty in Warrnambool County Court this week to drug and weapon offences.

He was arrested on February 22 this year after a police raid at his home uncovered 16 Ritalin tablets, a pen pistol, ammunition, $8500 cash, drug paraphernalia and 166 grams of a methamphetamine - two-and-half times the commercial quantity.

Judge Mark Dean said Miller had clearly engaged in the process of drug trafficking just months after he was released from jail for drug, driving and dishonesty offences.

"Illegal drugs, in particular methamphetamine, cause immeasurable damage to our society and regional cities and towns," he said.

"These communities must be protected from people like you."

In sentencing, the judge said he had taken into account Miller's youth, early guilty plea, significant drug history and family circumstances.

He said Miller's mother was suffering from lymphoma and her prognosis was "poor".

"That is a matter of great concern to you and increases the hardship of prison on you," the judge said.

Miller was jailed for three years and nine months.

The judge fixed a non-parole period of two years and three months.

Miller has already served 236 days in custody on remand and will be eligible for parole in about May 2021.

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