Police will continue to maintain a presence on roads in and around Bathurst as racegoers make their way home after tonight’s chequered flag.
Operation Bathurst 1000 is a high-visibility operation involving officers from the Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, who are targeting speeding, people driving under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol and people not wearing seatbelts or motorcycle helmets.
Almost 400 people, so far have had legal action taken against them for travelling above the speed limit and 23 people issued infringements for seatbelt offences.
About 10.40pm yesterday (Saturday 12 October 2019), an unaccompanied learner driver was detected travelling at 93km/h in a 60km/h zone on the Great Western Highway at Faulconbridge. The vehicle was not displaying L plates and the driver using a mobile device while driving. The driver, a 27-year-old Wentworth Falls man, was issued infringement notices for exceeding the speed limit by more than 30km/h, being an unaccompanied learner and not displaying “L” Plates.
He was officially cautioned about his mobile phone use and had his licence suspended for three months.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Command Regional Superintendent, Paul Glinn, said the number of people detected for speeding across the seven-day operation remained a concern.
“A number of generations have grown up with random breath testing and how difficult and dangerous controlling a vehicle can be if you have drugs and/or alcohol in your system. There are really no excuses.”
Supt Glinn acknowledged today had been a big day on “The Mountain” for spectators and competitors alike and those returning home tonight needed to consider their trip strategy.
“It has already been a long day and we are concerned about tired drivers making the trip home.
“And all those travelling home after dark, you need to watch out for wildlife on country roads.
“Highway patrol officers will be maintaining a visible presence on roads in and around the Bathurst region to ensure everyone can make it home safely.
“History has proven that, it is a Bathurst race weekend, there is always a chance of rain and, if the weather does change, remember to slow down and drive to the conditions.
“If you are tired, your ability to properly control your vehicle is compromised. Spend some time this afternoon working out where you might stop for dinner and who else in your group might be able to take over the driving,” Supt Glinn said.
For all special event traffic information, including road closures, special event clearways and live traffic reports, visit: www.livetraffic.com.
