One of the Port’s top cops is calling on drivers to stay alert and patient when behind the wheel during the winter school holiday period.
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Detective Inspector Scott Parker, the Port Stephens LAC crime manager, said it was important for all drivers – residents and visitors to the area – to stick to speed limits, have a “plan B” when drinking and to rest during long trips.
“Road safety is one of our biggest issues,” he said. “We have the Pacific Highway and M1 running through our patch and the road into the Bay is particularly busy during holiday periods.
“It’s important that drivers listen to road safety messages.”
Detective Inspector Parker said drivers could expect to see highway patrol and regular police vehicles on the Port’s roads in the July school holiday period.
He added that rural roads would be a particular target.
“We’ll have a special tasking to patrol our rural roads.”
Police will also be paying attention to Richardson Road. While not rural, it is a main thoroughfare and has seen its share of “issues” in the past, Detective Inspector Parker said.
Drivers can also expect to see mobile and roadside RBTs. Police will be targeting speeding, drug and alcohol use, mobile phones and fatigue.
Public schools will break between Monday, July 3 and Friday, July 14. Term three will begin on Monday, July 17.
School zones, where drivers need to slow down to 40km/h during the morning and afternoon, will be back in force on July 17.
Ellie-Marie Watts
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
A journalist with 10 years experience, Ellie-Marie connects readers to the stories that matter in their communities. A Port Stephens-based news, sport and event writer and photographer with a passion for human interest features.
