Today marks the start of the Queensland Police Service's (QPS) annual state-wide road safety campaign, Operation Mistletoe, which is aiming to reduce road fatalities over the Christmas break.
Between December 13, 2024 and January 27, 2025 communities can expect to see an increased number of police patrols across the Ipswich, Darling Downs and Southwest districts.
The operation which takes a tactical and targeted approach to detect and deter speeding and dangerous driving will this year include additional covert and overt QPS motorcycles, fitted with mobile radars.
In 2024 to date, 287 people have lost their lives on roads across the state, 20 more than this time last year.
Across the Southern Region there have been a total of 59 lives lost with 29 recorded in the Darling Downs District, 18 in Ipswich District and 12 in South West District.
Many others have been seriously injured or are facing long-term trauma and hardship.
Senior Sergeant Kim Hill from Toowoomba Highway Patrol said many of these fatalities and serious injuries 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 our roads safer this festive season." Senior Sergeant Hill said.
"This operation is taking a tactical and targeted approach, with increased high-visibility police patrols across the region to help foster safer roads for all users including drivers, riders and pedestrians."
With the Christmas season also coinciding with the start of rainy and unpredictable weather conditions Senior Sergeant Hill is urging all road users to drive to the conditions and prioritise safety.
"We know it's a busy time of year with people travelling to visit loved ones or holiday destinations, so I'm reminding everyone to ensure they are doing the right thing and show consideration for themselves and other road users.
"Just remember, from Durham to Dinmore, and from Kingaroy to Kurumbul, 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
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Data shows that serious crashes can be significantly reduced when drivers recognise and avoid the 'Fatal Five' behaviours: speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction.
Road safety is everyone's responsibility. Learn more about staying safe on Queensland roads: https://www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/fatal-five-staying-safe-roads
