- The Queensland Police Service has launched its annual state-wide road safety operation to reduce road fatalities this Christmas.
- Operation Mistletoe will see an increased number of police patrolling Queensland roads over the next five weeks.
- More than 100 covert and overt police motorbikes will provide a targeted and tactical surge in road safety enforcement.
The Queensland Police Service (QPS) today launched the summer road safety campaign, Operation Mistletoe, surging high-visibility police motorbikes across the state to reduce road fatalities this Christmas.
More than 30 police officers and their motorcycles descended on King George Square to launch the operation, in a display of force to combat speeding and dangerous driving.
In 2024 to date, 287 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads and more than 6,000 people have been seriously injured or are facing long-term trauma and hardship.
As part of Operation Mistletoe, drivers can expect to see an increased number of police on Queensland roads between December 13, 2024 and January 27, 2025, including an additional 112 covert and overt motorcycles all fitted with mobile radars.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services Dan Purdie joined police at today's launch to mark the approach of 300 deaths on Queensland roads.
"Queensland is on track to have more than 300 lives lost on our roads this year – the highest number of deaths in nearly two decades," Minister Purdie said.
"Christmas and the New Year should be remembered as a time of happiness and joy, not as a time when the selfishness or inattention of others drove a fatal wedge through the hearts of so many families.
"We don't need any more empty chairs at the Christmas table this year so please don't speed, don't be distracted behind the wheel, don't drive if you're tired or have been drinking, and wear a seatbelt."
Minister for Transport and Main Roads Brent Mickelberg said with more people travelling on the roads of the holiday period, it was critical that drivers prioritise safety.
"This is a timely reminder on the importance of staying vigilant behind the wheel, no matter how experienced a driver you are," Minister Mickelberg said.
"To have those rest breaks when travelling long distances, avoiding distractions, and adhering to the speed limit.
"Road safety is at the forefront of all our decision making, and we have made a commitment to deliver on better and safer road infrastructure."
Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said reducing the number of fatalities and injuries on Queensland roads are top priorities for the QPS.
"As of December 12, 287 lives have tragically been lost on Queensland roads, marking a significant rise from this time last year, which saw 267 lives lost," Commissioner Gollschewski said.
"Many of these fatalities have been the result of speeding, drink driving and driver inattention.
"Operation Mistletoe will see police focus on these bad driver behaviours to help make Queensland roads safer this festive season."
QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said the operation is taking a tactical and targeted approach.
"The addition of more than 100 road policing motorcycles means we have dedicated resources out there deterring and detecting speeding offences, and ensuring road users are driving to the conditions," Acting Chief Superintendent Channells said.
"We know it's a busy time of year with people travelling to visit loved ones or holiday destinations.
"Just remember, from the outback to the beaches, and from Coolangatta to Cape York, we will have police patrolling our roads – you could see them anywhere, anytime."
Police encourage drivers, riders, and pedestrians to be patient and courteous on the road this holiday season.
To learn more about road safety and QPS' initiatives to help make Queensland's roads safer, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/road-safety
