The Queensland Police Service (QPS) today launched the summer road safety campaign, Operation Mistletoe, surging high-visibility police motorbikes across the state to reduce road fatalities this Christmas.
More than 30 police officers and their motorcycles descended on King George Square to launch the operation, in a display of force to combat speeding and dangerous driving.
In 2024 to date, 287 people have lost their lives on Queensland roads and more than 6,000 people have been seriously injured or are facing long-term trauma and hardship.
The community can expect to see an increased number of police on Queensland roads between December 13, 2024 and January 27, 2025, which this year includes an additional 112 covert and overt motorcycles all fitted with mobile radars.
The Commissioner of Police, Steve Gollschewski APM, said reducing the number of fatalities and injuries on Queensland roads is a priority for the Service.
“Tragically, Queensland is on track to have more than 300 lives lost on our roads this year – the highest number of deaths in nearly two decades,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“As of December 13, 287 lives have tragically been lost on Queensland roads, marking a significant rise from this time last year, which saw 267 lives lost for the year.
“Many of these fatalities have been the result of speeding, drink driving and driver inattention.
“Operation Mistletoe will see police focus on these bad driver behaviours to help make Queensland roads safer this Festive season,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
QPS Road Policing and Regional Support Command Acting Chief Superintendent Garrath Channells said the operation is taking a tactical and targeted approach.
“The addition of more than 100 road policing motorcycles means we have dedicated resources out there deterring and detecting speeding offences, and ensuring road users are driving to the conditions,” Acting Chief Superintendent Channells said.
“We know it’s a busy time of year with people travelling to visit loved ones or holiday destinations.
“Just remember, from the outback to the beaches, and from Coolangatta to Cape York, we will have police patrolling our roads – you could see them anywhere, anytime.”
Police encourage drivers, riders, and pedestrians to be patient and courteous on the road this holiday season.
To learn more about road safety and QPS’ initiatives to help make Queensland’s roads safer, visit: www.police.qld.gov.au/initiatives/road-safety
