Far North police are urging motorists to band together to reduce road trauma during Queensland Road Safety Week, following several fatal crashes in the region.
So far 18 people have died on Far North roads in 2026, which is eight more than this time last year.
During Queensland Road Safety Week, police will be conducting enforcement activities to target dangerous driving behaviours including drink and drug driving, using mobile phones while driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and speeding.
On 5 August, officers from Innisfail Highway Patrol allegedly detected a motorcycle being driven at 161km/h in a 100km/h on the Bruce Highway at Damper Creek, south of Cardwell.
It will be alleged the rider, a 33-year-old Townsville man, evaded police after the officer activated lights and sirens.
He was intercepted a short time later near Ellerbeck and charged with one count of evade, and was issued a Traffic Infringement Notice (TIN) for exceed speed limit in speed zone by more than 40km/h.
He received a $1,986 fine, eight demerit points, and his motorcycle was impounded for 90 days.
He is due to appear in the Tully Magistrates Court on 3 September.
Officer in charge of Cairns Highway Patrol Acting Senior Sergeant Greg Rose said the devastation caused by traffic crashes is immeasurable.
“To have to tell someone’s partner, child or parent that their loved one won’t be coming home is one of the worst jobs we face as police officers,” Acting Senior Sergeant Rose said.
“We are continuing to promote safe road behaviour in the Far North, to ensure no more families are devastated by road trauma.
“It’s not about revenue raising, it’s about making sure you, and other motorists make it home to their loved ones. One split second, poor decision can lead to a lifetime of pain for your family – it’s simply not worth it.”
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads. However, enforcement alone cannot stop all dangerous driving behaviours.
Every choice you make behind the wheel, matters. 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.
Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime.
Road safety starts with you.
