Officers from both the Logan and Gold Coast police districts, in conjunction with QFES, QAS, Department Transport and Main Roads, together with Gold Coast, Logan and Scenic Rim City Councils will join forces on Sunday December 13, to target the issue of rider safety in the hinterland area under the banner of Operation North Upright.
Operation North Upright is a road safety campaign designed to raise awareness of the potential risks of riding the hinterland roads within the South Eastern Region. Sadly, in 2015, 12 motorcyclists have lost their lives on hinterland roads. Factors contributing to these crashes were speed, rider error, lack of rider experience, motorcycle visibility and collision with other vehicles.
A multifaceted road safety operation, Operation North Upright is designed to address the issue of motorcycle safety in the South Eastern Region. The operation will incorporate community engagement, education as well as enforcement.
The community will notice an increased presence of police in the South East Hinterland. Intercepts of riders touring through or towards the hinterland will be increased and officers will be tasked to inspect the safety of the motorcycle, check rider license status and provide a rider safety brochure.
Enforcement using marked and unmarked traffic policing will also be widespread in the area, predominately on the weekends and will focus on riders utilising the hinterland road network.
Inspector Mick Stenner from South Eastern Regional office said that disappointingly, motorcyclists have been over represented in serious and fatal crashes in the area.
“I invite motorcyclists enjoying the hinterland area on December 13, to stop for a chat about road safety with experienced motorcycle officers from the Road Policing Command and other emergency services,” Inspector Stenner said.
“This facet of the operation endeavors to inform riders about safe riding techniques through displays, demonstrations, and discussions.
“All attendees will have the opportunity to see speed detection equipment, police motorcycles and marked vehicles first hand and to have any questions answered in relation to traffic legislation and crash prevention strategies.”
At regular intervals at selected locations, police and partners will encourage motorcyclists to stop for a free sausage sizzle and a chat about hazard perception, braking distances and scanning techniques.
The emphasis will be on road safety education and positive interaction with motorcycle riders. The locations for the first event on Sunday, December 13, 2015 are Numinbah Valley Community Hall (9a-2p) and Beechmont Primary School (6.30am–1pm).