Central Queensland police issue more than 400 fines in highway blitz
Operation Yankee Overtake saw police issue over 400 infringement notices on Gregory, Capricornia, Bruce and Peak Downs highways from 20 to 23 October.
Police have issued more than 400 traffic infringement notices after a large-scale operation on major highways across Capricornia and Mackay Whitsunday districts.
Operation Yankee Overtake ran from 20 to 23 October and targeted vehicles travelling in both directions along the Gregory, Capricornia, Bruce and Peak Downs highways.
Officers conducted 4,673 roadside breath tests and 127 roadside drug tests, with 33 motorists returning a positive drug result.
Among them was a 26-year-old Ilbilbie man who tested positive at Sarina. Police intercepted the heavy vehicle driver on the Bruce Highway at Sarina around 1.20pm on 21 October. He was charged with driving while a relevant drug is present in blood or saliva and is due to appear in Mackay Magistrates Court on 16 December.
In all, 224 people received speeding infringements. This included a 19-year-old Wandal man who was allegedly observed travelling 123 km/h in a 70 km/h zone on the Bruce Highway outside Glenlee at about 10.45pm on 22 October. He received several infringement notices for speeding and other traffic offences, totalling $2,997 in fines, the loss of 14 demerit points and an immediate six-month licence suspension.
Other infringements included 45 for driving unregistered or uninsured vehicles, 16 for disqualified or unlicensed driving, and twelve for mobile phone and seatbelt offences. Police also intercepted 191 heavy vehicles and issued 17 infringements.
Officer in Charge of Mackay Highway Patrol, Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, said police are committed to keeping Central Region's roads safe for everyone.
"Our message to motorists remains the same: do not become complacent," Senior Sergeant Edwards said.
"Road safety is everyone's responsibility, so we urge everyone to watch your speed, never drive while under the influence, make sure you take breaks, wear your seatbelt, and don't use your phone while driving."
The operation forms part of Operation Interpose, which has police bolstering high-visibility patrols across the state.
This report is based on information released by Queensland Police Service.