There will be a huge police presence throughout the Hunter during the upcoming Anzac Day “holiday” weekend.
The latest traffic operation kicks into gear at 12.01am on Wednesday 24 April, with double demerit points in place until 11.59pm on Sunday 28 April.
Sadly, the reminder to motorists comes after 111 people lost their lives so far this year, compared to 100 in the same period in 2023.
Minister for Police and Counter-terrorism Yasmin Catley said police will be highly visible across the state this ANZAC Day weekend.
“Every driver has a responsibility to themselves, their passengers and other road users,” the Member for Hunter stated.
“Drive responsibly and to the conditions to ensure everyone arrives safely at their destination.
“Anzac Day is a time to reflect on and commemorate our veterans.
“I want to thank the NSW Police Force for working around the clock to help keep the community safe this long weekend.”
The high-visibility policing operation, Anzac Day 2024, involves general duties officers, assisted by specialist police, including the Public Order and Riot Squad, Operations Support Group, Mounted Unit, PolAir, Licensing Police, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command and Police Transport Command.
They’ll be targeting high-risk behaviours such as excessive speed, alcohol and drug driving offences, illegal use of mobile phones and not wearing seatbelts.
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Assistant Commissioner Brett McFadden said the appeal to road-users was to do the right thing before they head out, rather than have regrets when it’s too late.
“The goal is preventing injury and death,” he explained.
“Tragically this year, 111 people have died on NSW roads – a concerning increase of 11 compared to this time last year.
“Speeding is a major contributor to fatal road crashes, and police will take action against road-users who think they can speed and put themselves and others at risk.
“A decision to speed could result in a fatality in a split-second.
“Think about your choices and how they impact you and others around you.
“Share the road and make sure you arrive to your destination safely.
“We remain committed to ensuring public safety over the Anzac Day weekend… and we’re asking all motorists to do their part as well, especially as we expect more cars on our roads with school holidays coming to an end, too.”
Double demerits take in speeding, seatbelt, mobile phone and motorcycle helmet offences.
For more news stories:
- ANZAC DAY 2024: Services across the Hunter
- No More: Newcastle rally demands politicians to take further action on DV incidents
- NRL: Knights suffer major blow with long-term Ponga injury
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