Big ANZAC Day weekend for police

THE statewide police road safety Operation Compass concluded end of the ANZAC Day weekend without any fatalities in the Mansfield district, but drivers’ behaviour is still a major worry for local police. “We were pleased there were no fatalities but there is still the capacity for serious accidents,” said Mansfield’s Acting Senior Sergeant Melanie Walker. “Over the ANZAC Day weekend the Highway Patrol identified five impaired drivers with three in one shift,” she said. Snr Sgt Walker described it as “concerning” due to the high risk for road trauma during Easter and with the ANZAC Day long weekend this year. These concerns were reiterated by the state’s Road Policing Assistant Commissioner, Glen Weir. "The fact so many people are making bad choices during what we know is a high-risk period on our roads is extremely concerning," he said. "The number of drivers detected drug and alcohol affected is completely unacceptable. "These drivers are a risk not only to themselves but to all road users." Local uniform and Highway Patrol units worked together during the operation which commenced on April 17 with the aim of creating a greater visibility. “Education is still needed for people to understand that they can still register a positive breath test the following day," said Snr Sgt Walker. “Road safety is always a priority. “With the huge influx of people, we just want everyone to enjoy themselves and get home safely. “We also urge anyone visiting our area to be mindful of the amount of wildlife on the roads." The dry conditions are contributing to the movement of wildlife including deer to seek out the green verges. As the winter months approach, motorists are urged to allow enough time to drive to their destination without rushing. Police maintained a presence at ANZAC Day services across the shire, including in Merrijig and Mansfield, assisting with vehicle escorts and laying wreaths. Senior Sergeant Walker said that despite the large number of visitors in the district, crowd behaviour over the long weekend was excellent and several “fantastic events” were all well organised. Mansfield Police also executed a search warrant at the TSG Tobacco Shop in Mansfield on April 17. According to police a quantity of tobacco and illicit substances were seized. One offender has been processed.

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