Cops’ Easter crackdown

Extra Highway Patrol cars brought in

GREATER Geelong and Surf Coast roads will be inundated with navy blue uniforms this long weekend after the regions were identified as road trauma hot spots for death and serious injury.

Superintendent Craig Gillard said Operation Nexus would focus on the main causes of both, including speeding, mobile phone use, distracted drivers, failure to wear seatbelts and drink and drug driving.

“For me, this operation is about one key issue and that’s safety on our roads. I’ve asked our people to have a high visible presence during high volume traffic times in our region, including Friday and Monday,” Supt Gillard said.

“Interestingly we have a lot of traffic on the move over the three hours around lunch times on all of these (long weekend) days so the key message from me is patience and attention.

“Be courteous because people will do things in front and around you that might be wrong, they might have missed a turn and not know the area, so be patient. And don’t allow yourself to be distracted with mobile phones and kids playing up in the back seat.”

Supt Gillard said extra Highway Patrol members from Corio and Melbourne would be brought into the area to bolster local resources with all available uniforms to be working, including on and offroad motorcycle units.

“This is not about enforcement, that’s a by-product of the way people drive, this is about ensuring safety,” he said. “Have a good attitude.” VicRoads spokesman Sameem Moslih said drivers should also use this time to ensure their car was safe.

“Check the tyres, brakes, lights, oil and water — if you’re in doubt, take your car to a professional mechanic to double check,” he said.

“A safe car will help you avoid a collision and contribute to your safety should the worst happen.

“Make sure you are well rested before setting off for your trip — and don’t drive at times you’d normally be sleeping.

“Getting a head start by leaving at 4am when you’re normally tucked up in bed is a recipe for disaster.”

CFA Chief Officer Steve Warrington said with a busy long weekend marking the end of term one for schoolchildren and the end of daylight savings on top of Easter, safety had to come first.

“This Sunday, we turn the clocks back an hour and we urge all Victorians to take this opportunity to inspect their smoke alarms for any wear and tear and, of course, change the batteries,” Chief Officer Warrington said.

Operation Nexus will run from midnight tonight until midnight on Monday.