Police are increasing patrols across Newcastle and the Hunter this summer with a special focus on risky e-bike and e-scooter behaviour.
Operation Shore Safe, which kicked off on 23 October, will see motorcyclists, trail bikes and bicycles taking to the streets, tracks and beachside precincts to target unsafe riding and driving actions.
The initiative comes at such a crucial time after 31 people have already lost their lives in the Newcastle and Hunter area this year.
It’s a number that police described as “exceptionally high”.
Newcastle Hunter Sector Highway Patrol Chief Inspector Thomas Barnes said the operation was a direct response to e-mobility vehicles and serious crashes.
“In the case of e-scooters, they have smaller wheels which are prone to throwing people over the handlebars,” he explained.
“They do not perform, handle, stop or accelerate like a normal bicycle or scooter.
“We see that when we overlay factors such as speed and inexperience, the risks only increase and the outcomes a very serious and if not fatal.”
Just hours before the operation began, a 26-year-old woman was critically injured in Carrington when her e-bike collided with a stationary caravan – her first time riding it.
Chief Inspector Barnes said cases like that reflected why police were adopting such a firm stance.
“With the Christmas period approaching, we know parents will be buying e-bikes and e-scooters as gifts,” he stated.
“But, they must understand the risks.
“I’d hate to stand here in January talking about the death of a child because of a present.”
Eight solo motorcycle officers will be deployed across the Hunter, supported by highway patrol cars and bicycle units.
These resources will allow police to reach areas that are normally inaccessible to vehicles, such as the Fernleigh Track and coastal shared paths.
Traffic North Highway Patrol Commander Superintendent Julie Boon said the operation was more than just enforcement… it’s about education.
“Summer months are busier for holidaymakers trying to get to the beach and enjoy the beautiful coastline,” she added.
“So, it’s about ensuring safety going forward, such as wearing helmets and having care around you to assure pedestrian safety.”
Superintendent Boon said officers would patrol high-traffic and high-pedestrian areas from the Central Coast to Port Stephens.
Particularly locations where e-bikes, e-scooters and motorcycle use had surged.
Police are now urging the public to stay alert and follow the rules as the warmer months bring more people to the coastline.
“No one goes out expecting to have a crash, but day in and day out we see in NSW people do have crashes,” Chief Inspector Barnes said.
“Our coastline is beautiful; we just want everyone to enjoy it safely and make it home at the end of the day.”
For more news stories:
- Police launch summer road and pedestrian safety operation in Newcastle
- ‘Enough’… Strong push to drop charges against 129 protesters
- Airport expansion a game-changer for Hunter and beyond, says Nelmes
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