Noosa motorists are being urged to drive with extra care following a devastating week on Queensland roads, where six lives were lost in just five days.
Queensland Police Service (QPS) say these deaths are a stark reminder of the impact road trauma has on families, communities, and the state as a whole. Vulnerable road users—including pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists—continue to represent a disproportionate number of fatalities, with many incidents occurring in regional areas.
Since the start of 2026, 21 people from these vulnerable groups have died, contributing to 44 road fatalities across Queensland so far this year. That includes 13 motorcyclists, five pedestrians, and three cyclists who won’t make it home to their families.
Chief Superintendent of the Road Policing Group, Mark Wheeler, said police witness the devastating consequences of risky behaviours on the roads every day.
“First responders feel this loss deeply, and it is a driving motivator as to why we work so tirelessly to prevent these tragedies from happening,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
He highlighted key dangers, including speeding, distracted or impaired driving, driving while fatigued, and not wearing seatbelts.
“These dangerous behaviours lead to serious injury and death,” he said.
QPS continues to enforce road safety measures and target high-risk behaviours, but police stress that preventing road trauma is a responsibility shared by every driver.
“Every number is a person, every crash is a family forever changed, and every decision you make behind the wheel matters,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
Motorists across Noosa and the Sunshine Coast are reminded that even short trips carry risks, particularly for pedestrians, cyclists, and motorcyclists. Police warn that unsafe behaviours will not be tolerated, with officers patrolling roads and highways across the state to protect the community.
“Queenslanders can expect police anywhere, anytime,” Chief Superintendent Wheeler said. “Driving under the influence, speeding, distraction, or ignoring seatbelts puts your life—and the lives of others—at serious risk.”
The QPS urges all drivers to stay alert, plan for breaks on long trips, and make safety a priority. Every choice on the road matters, and slowing down, paying attention, and following the rules can save lives.
