Police have issued more than 400 traffic infringement notices following a large-scale traffic operation across the region last week.
From 20 to 23 October, Operation Yankee Overtake targeted vehicles traveling in both directions along Gregory, Capricornia, Bruce, and Peak Downs highways across Capricornia and Mackay Whitsunday districts.
Officers conducted 4,673 roadside breath tests, and 127 roadside drug tests, in which 33 motorists returned a positive result.
This included a 26-year-old Ilbilbie man who provided a positive roadside drug test result at Sarina.
Police intercepted the driver of a heavy vehicle along the Bruce Highway at Sarina around 1.20pm on 21 October.
He was charged with offence of driving while relevant drug is present in blood or saliva, and is due to appear before Mackay Magistrates Court on 16 December.
224 people were issued with speeding infringements, including a 19-year-old Wandal man who was allegedly observed travelling 123 km/h in a 70 km/h zone on the Bruce Highway outside of Glenlee at approximately 10.45pm on 22 October.
The man received several infringement notices for exceeding the speed limit, and other traffic offences totalling $2,997 in fines, the loss of 14 demerit points, and an immediate six-month licence suspension.
Traffic infringement notices were issued for other driving offences, including 45 for driving unregistered or uninsured vehicles, 16 for disqualified or unlicensed driving, and twelve for mobile phone and seatbelt offences.
There were also 191 heavy vehicles intercepted, with 17 infringements issued.
Officer in Charge of Mackay Highway Patrol, Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards said police are committed to keeping Central Region’s roads safe for everyone.
“Our message to motorists remains the same: do not become complacent,” said Senior Sergeant Edwards.
“Operations such as Overtake are vital in reminding road users they can expect to see police anywhere and at any time with the aim of reducing road deaths and trauma.
“Officers will continue to intercept as many drivers seen engaging in dangerous driving behaviours.
“Road safety is everyone’s responsibility, so we urge everyone to watch your speed, never drive while under the influence, make sure you take breaks, wear your seatbelt, and don’t use your phone while driving.”
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
As part of Operation Interpose, police are bolstering high-visibility patrols right across the state, engaging with road users and enforcing the laws to deter dangerous driving behaviours.
Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime. However, enforcement alone cannot stop all dangerous driving behaviours.
Driving under the influence, speeding, driving distracted or while fatigued, or not wearing a seatbelt puts your life – and the lives of others – at serious risk. These dangerous behaviours will not be tolerated.
Road safety starts with you.
