In the lead up to this year’s Supercars Australia event, NSW Police are urging motorists to travel safely and leave racing to the professionals as they make their way to Mount Panorama this weekend, NSW Police say.
With more than 200,000 visitors expected at the Bathurst 1000, general duties and specialist police will be out in force targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, mobile phone use and seat-belt offences.
Acting Western Region Commander, Assistant Commissioner Greg Moore said road safety is everyone’s responsibility and motorists should avoid putting themselves and other road users at risk.
"There is no excuse for poor or dangerous behaviour on our roads but – unfortunately – there are some drivers who continue to break the law and not only put their own lives at risk, but the lives of every other motorist, cyclist, rider or pedestrian around them," A/Assistant Commissioner Moore said.
"Motorists can expect to see our Traffic and Highway Patrol officers conducting random breath tests and roadside drug testing, as well as targeting unsafe driver behaviour to ensure everyone arrives at their destination safely.
"We want to start the weekend off on a good note, so be extra vigilant with speed, fatigue and driver behavior and leave the racing to the professionals on the course," A/Assistant Commissioner Moore said.
Motorists making their way to the championship event are warned to plan ahead and be patient as delays are expected - particularly around the Great Western Highway and Bells Line of Road.
Operation Hoist, a high-visibility police operation – which will also target anti-social behaviour and alcohol-related violence – will run from Thursday 4 October until Sunday 7 October 2018.
NSW Centre for Road Safety Executive Director Bernard Carlon, said it was important that everyone driving to and from Bathurst drive to the conditions and travel safely.
"Speeding, drink and drug driving, fatigue and not wearing a seatbelt remain the four biggest killers on our roads," Mr Carlon said.
"Make sure you drive carefully, stick to the speed limit and buckle up and don’t drive if you are tired or have been drinking.
Our message is simple: if you’re going to have a drink – the best option is not to drive at all. Have a Plan B," Mr Carlon said.
