Visitors to some of Queensland’s most popular 4WD and camping beaches have been encouraged to record and report misbehaving motorists during the Easter school holidays.
Authorities have urged people at Noosa North Shore, Teewah Beach and Double Island Point to take photos or footage of ill-disciplined driving, and report to police.
The call comes as Sunshine Coast Police and the Queensland Parks and Wildlife Service launch Operation Sandstorm, targeting dangerous behaviour at those beaches during the two-week break.
Beach campsites are booked out over the Easter long weekend, with rangers also anticipating an influx of day trippers.
Police issued a release stating that road rules apply along and on islands, and they will target speed, fatigue, seatbelts, distractions and intoxicated driving.
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Northern Patrol Group inspector John Mahony said Teewah Beach is a blackspot for mobile reception, but clips taken on a mobile phone or dashcam can be sent to police once campers have returned home.
“If you observe poor driving behaviours and manage to record it, we would encourage you to report your observations to QPS Policelink or 13Hoon/134666 and upload any images or recordings online at via QPS Policelink,” he said.
“It’s never too late to record, upload and report.”
He said drivers who engage in hooning risk serious consequences, including fines, vehicle impoundment and potential imprisonment.
“Police and QPWS Rangers will be deploying aerial assets to monitor the park and for enforcement purposes,” he said.
QPWS principal ranger Danielle Mansfield urged motorists to be cautious.
“Take it easy, drive to the conditions, and keep a safe distance from other vehicles. Stay switched on: just a moment of care can make all the difference.
“Safe driving on the beach isn’t just about you, it’s about looking out for your passengers, other beachgoers, our wildlife and the beautiful environment we all love.”
Noosa Mayor Frank Wilkie commended officials for the clampdown.
“We fully support any enforcement efforts that remind drivers about driving safely on the beach and respecting the pristine nature of the area,” he said.
“It’s a privilege to drive on Teewah Beach and the North Shore and we want everyone to enjoy Noosa’s environment in a respectful, safe and responsible way.”
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at police.qld.gov.au/reporting. Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at crimestoppersqld.com.au.
