Traditionally, the September school holidays see a significant increase in traffic on our roads and beaches.
To support safe travel, QPS Highway Patrol units from the Sunshine Coast and Gympie, as part of Operation Spring Break, will be deploying to the Great Sandy National Park from 19 September.
Motorists can expect to see police patrolling Rainbow Beach, Teerwah, and the surrounds to set the tone for expected driving behaviours on the sand.
On the roads, too, Police will be targeting the Fatal Five, conducting roadside drug and breath testing, and high visibility and covert patrols across the region, from main roads and highways to rural roads and back streets.
North Coast Region Assistant Commissioner Kevin Guteridge said police take a zero-tolerance approach to reckless behaviour on our roads and beaches.
“Once drivers hit the sand, unfortunately, we can see a lapse in responsibility and respect for the road rules,” Assistant Commissioner Guteridge said.
“The offences we tend to see on the beach are drink or drug driving, speeding, not wearing seatbelts, and dangerous driving. Tragically, we’ve seen these actions result in serious injury or death.
“Please take into consideration your environment, the unpredictable terrain, tide times, the condition of your vehicle, and most importantly, the campers and beach goers around you.
“Whether you’re driving on the bitumen, a dirt road or the sand, the same road rules apply.
“We’re expecting high traffic volume across the next two weeks as people travel through our region for the school break, so police will be out in force to strengthen road safety.
“Please don’t be the reason police have to take enforcement action, or far worse, investigate a traffic crash tragedy.
“Road safety is your responsibility. Be responsible for yourself, your passengers, and other road users.
“Please drive with heightened caution these holidays. Plan your journey, take breaks if on long drives, wear your seatbelt, pay attention to your environment and never drive under the influence of drugs or alcohol.
“Our goal is to help everyone have a safe and happy holiday, without any road trauma,” Assistant Commissioner Guteridge said.
