Road carnage takes its toll

THE Far North has witnessed a tragic weekend after four driving deaths.

Not only that, but there were other examples of shocking driving behaviour that have police at their wits’ end.

There were at least two alleged drink-driving crashes, a pedestrian was seriously hurt at Manoora and there were two instances of ridiculously high speeds.

The road toll is 12 so far this year. Last year the total was 29.

All fatalities were in relatively remote areas — Normanton, Almaden, Lockhart River and near Mt Molloy.

Two were on public roads, one on the ungazetted Quaid Road and another on a private property.

Four families and their wider circles are now grieving.

Notably the four deaths were all male, two were just 16 and 21, the other two in their 40s and early 60s.

The alleged drunk mayhem occurred in Cairns, one at Bungalow and the other in the CBD. Two alleged drink-drivers, with readings of .228 and .179, will face court in October after causing damage to light poles, street signs, traffic lights and roundabouts at the weekend.

The high speeds were 142km/h in a 100km/h zone on the Bruce Highway at Midgenoo and 128km/h in an 80km/h zone at Trinity Beach.

There are more people taking to the roads as restrictions are lifted. There will be more grey nomads heading north for the warmth from southern regions, so more caravans on the bitumen. Many flying in will be hiring vehicles as well.

A more visible police presence will also help drive home the message to enjoy the holiday but take care on the busier roads across the region.

Nick Dalton

Deputy editor