Last night at approximately 8:55pm, Tasmania Police were contacted via Triple Zero (000) regarding dangerous driver behaviour observed on the Bass Highway between Ulverstone and Penguin.
Thanks to the vigilance of an alert community member, police swiftly located the vehicle a short time later. The driver, who underwent breath analysis, returned an alarming reading of 0.203 - more than four times the legal limit.
The 66-year-old Penguin driver has been arrested and charged with drink driving and will face the Burnie Magistrates Court at a later date. Their driver's licence was immediately disqualified for 12 months.
Acting Inspector Luke Negri praised the actions of the community member who alerted police, saying, "This is a prime example of how our community plays a vital role in road safety. I was to sincerely thank the individual who contacted us. Your actions may well have saved lives".
With the holiday season fast approaching, police are stepping up efforts to ensure a safe and enjoyable festive period for all. Officers will maintain a high-visibility presence on roads and at licensed venues to deter dangerous behaviours, such as drink driving and antisocial conduct.
"We are entering a busy and festive time of year, but let me be clear – if you drink and drive, you can expect to be caught," Acting Inspector Negri said. "Our officers will be out in force leading up to Christmas and the New Year to ensure everyone gets home safely. This is just not about enforcement; it's about protecting lives".
Tasmania Police urge anyone with further information or dash cam footage of this incident to contact the Ulverstone Police Station on (03) 6478 6006 or Crime Stoppers at 1800 333 000. Quote ESCAD reference number 422-14122024.
This holiday season, let's work together to make our roads and public spaces safer for everyone.
