Sunshine Coast police launch Operation Redline against hooning

Sunshine Coast police have warned motorists engaging in dangerous and antisocial driving to expect to be held accountable, announcing a new targeted crackdown called Operation Redline.

The operation aims to tackle excessive noise and smoke, speeding and other dangerous driving. Highly visible enforcement will run across the entire district alongside community stakeholders, with a focus on known areas of concern including Mooloolaba and Maroochydore.

Police allege a grey Mercedes-Benz C200 was doing burnouts on Marina Walk at Alexandra Parade shortly after 1pm on 5 October while a male person sat on the bonnet. Further enquiries led police to an address in Mooloolaba on 1 November, where a 19-year-old Sippy Downs man was charged with dangerous operation of a vehicle. He is due to face Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 1 December.

Just before 1pm on 23 October, police allege they saw a white Toyota Hilux doing a burnout on David Low Way at Diddillibah and intercepted it. A 33-year-old Buderim man was charged with wilfully making unnecessary noise or smoke and is due to face Maroochydore Magistrates Court on 24 November. The Hilux was impounded.

At about 3.15pm on 31 October, a black Holden Commodore was seen doing burnouts on Kronk Court in Bli Bli. After investigations, a 55-year-old Bli Bli man was issued a Traffic Infringement Notice for wilfully starting or driving a vehicle in a way that makes unnecessary noise or smoke, and was fined $552. The Commodore was also impounded.

Sunshine Coast Support Services Acting Inspector Jonathan McBride said this type of reckless driving places all road users at risk and will not be tolerated.

“Members of the public who engage in this type of dangerous driving behaviour can expect a target on their back during Operation Redline,” he said.

“We are committed to enhancing community safety and protecting the lifestyle we enjoy on the beautiful Sunshine Coast. Police are also urging residents to capture video of what you are seeing and hearing in your neighbourhood to help us identify offenders and target resources to areas of concern.”

Residents can report dangerous driving to 13HOON (134 666) or Policelink (131 444), or report online through the Policelink website, where photos and videos can be uploaded. If it is happening now or is life-threatening, call Triple Zero (000).