School zone speed limits are back in play, as Noosa and Sunshine Coast students return to school.
This week also marks the closure of Operation Mistletoe which is a road safety operation that focuses on reducing the lives lost on Queensland roads over the school holidays, including the back-to-school period.
Sunshine Coast police will be increasing patrols in areas around schools this week, focusing on both enforcement and education, to facilitate a safe return to school.
Sunshine Coast Highway Patrol Officer in Charge Acting Senior Sergeant Nathan Richards said speed limits are put in place and strongly enforced for everyone’s safety.
“Be aware of reduced speed limits around schools during drop off and pick up times. That’s generally 7-9am and 2-4pm, but times can vary so always read the sign,” Acting Senior Sergeant Richards said.
“The return to school also means many more people on the roads during busy school drop off and pick up times including parents and kids walking or riding to school.
“Please keep an eye out for pedestrians and be extra cautious around them.
“School zones can be unpredictable with lots of cars and pedestrians, particularly young children, so I urge you to slow down, pay attention and drive with caution and patience.
“Now is also a great time to speak to your children about road safety and the ways they can stay safe.”
Despite consistent and targeted police action through Operation Mistletoe and beyond, the start of 2025 has been tragic.
As for lives lost on the roads, Queensland is experiencing the deadliest start to a year since 2020.
Tragically, in just under one month, 23 lives have been lost on Queensland roads so far this year with three of those lives lost on Sunshine Coast roads.
Acting Senior Sergeant Nathan Richards said this is deeply concerning.
“These are not just numbers. Each life lost is someone’s mum or dad, son or daughter, husband or wife, or friend,” Acting Senior Sergeant Richards said.
“We’re pleading with every road user to make the right choices, because every decision you make on the road has the power to save a life or take one.
“Outside of Operation Mistletoe, we will continue high visibility traffic enforcement across the Sunshine Coast targeting the education and enforcement of the proven causes of traffic crashes including speed, impaired driving, fatigue, seat belt use, driver distraction and vehicle safety standards.
“But strengthening road safety is a team effort – you have a responsibility for your own road safety every time you get in your vehicle.
“Please consider other road users including pedestrians, and be especially vigilant around school zones.
“I wish all the students returning to school a happy and safe start to the year.”
