The Territory Road Policing Division (TRP) was out in force over the long weekend, travelling from Darwin to Alice Springs, targeting the fatal five, before joining the southern team ahead of the Finke race.
Darwin members conducted a high visibility highway patrol along the Stuart Highway in the days leading up to the event, stopping at a number of locations where they conducted large-scale Random Breath Testing (RBT) operations.
High visibility road policing duties over the long weekend also included speed camera vans operating in and around Alice Springs and the location of the event
The TRP Division also provided support to Alice Springs General Duties during the event and assisted in the response to serious crashes during the race, including the death of a motorcycle rider.
Over the extensive operation, nine crashes were attended, 12 RBT stations were put in place, and 6975 vehicles were speed checked over 17 locations resulting in 135 drivers receiving speeding infringements.
The following results were also recorded by TRP:
– 129 vehicle apprehensions conducted with 54 traffic infringements issued
– 1146 breath tests conducted with nine positive results
– 58 drug tests conducted with five positive results
– 12 vehicles found with defects
– 4 arrests
– 38 cautions
– 11 Notices to Appear
Territory Road Policing Superintendent Rick Magree said the operation was a success for the division and praised the majority of the road users for “doing the right thing” over the weekend.
“Our high visibility on the roads was effective as most drivers were doing the right thing, especially those who were in Alice Springs for the event.
“The TRP Division sees these large events as an opportunity to ensure Territory roads are safe and prevent illegal behaviour from drivers.
“The entire division would also like to send its condolences to the family and friends of a motorcycle rider who tragically died following a crash in the Finke Desert Race.
“Our thoughts are with you all and those involved with the event at this difficult time.”
