Officers from the Highway Patrol and Tactical Crime Squad, with the support of the Stock Squad and Dog Squad have conducted a large-scale traffic operation in the Central Queensland region, resulting in 30 people charged with 37 offences.
Operation Whisky Overtake, which ran from May 13 to May 18, involved high visibility patrols that targeted both road-related offences and all criminal offences across three major highways in Theodore, Barcaldine, and Hay Gully.
As part of the effort, officers conducted 7,008 roadside breath tests and 468 roadside drug tests, in which 36 motorists returned a positive result.
588 people were issued infringement notices in total, including 37 for unregistered vehicles, and 26 for disqualified or unlicensed drivers.
296 people were issued with speeding tickets, including a 23-year-old Pittsworth man who was allegedly observed travelling 110 km/h in a 60 km/h zone, resulting in a $1,780 fine, the loss of eight demerit points, and an immediate six-month licence suspension.
With a focus on heavy vehicle operators in the area, 857 heavy vehicles were stopped, with three road train operators returning a positive drug driving result.
Senior Sergeant Ewan Findlater, Officer in Charge of the Capricornia Highway Patrol, said this operation is a reminder to motorists to expect police anywhere and anytime.
"Road safety remains a priority for Central Queensland Police and should be every motorist's priority when they are behind the wheel. There is an overrepresentation of road deaths on regional roads and we're doing everything we can to ensure that number doesn't rise and that everyone arrives at their destination safely," Senior Sergeant Findlater said.
"There is no excuse for speeding or driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Please drive responsibly and take regular breaks if you're travelling for long periods of time, and always wear your seatbelt.
"Don't risk your life and others," said Senior Sergeant Findlater.
Vision can be viewed here: https://r2.mypolice.qld.gov.au/uploads/2024/05/21/045955_cq-road-safety.mp4
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
