The Queensland Police Service has launched Operation Yankee Easter Break, calling on motorists to prioritise safety as families prepare to travel across the state these Easter school holidays.
Historically, school holidays represent an increased period of traffic on Queensland roads, raising the risk of poor behaviours leading to serious and, sadly, fatal traffic crashes occurring.
Tragically, 73 lives have already been lost on Queensland roads this year – a sobering reminder of the devastating consequences of unsafe driving.
These losses continue to leave a lasting impact on families and communities across the state.
Aligning with the school holidays, Operation Yankee Easter Break will see high visibility patrols and sustained police presence on Queensland roads, with officers committed to ensuring the safety of all road users during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
Motorists should expect to see police anywhere, anytime.
High-visibility patrols will be conducted on highways, regional roads, and major travel routes, supported by enforcement actions including roadside breath testing, speed checks, and targeted patrols throughout the long weekend.
Police will also be stationed at rest stops across the state, encouraging drivers to take regular breaks to combat fatigue – a leading contributor to serious crashes.
During this time, motorists can chat with officers, collect Easter eggs, and pick up activities for children, all while taking the opportunity to stretch their legs and refresh.
Chief Superintendent of Road Policing Group, Mark Wheeler, emphasised the importance of planning ahead to ensure safe travel.
'Fatigue remains one of the key factors linked to fatal crashes, alongside speeding, drink and drug driving, distraction, and failing to wear a seatbelt,' Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
'With many Queenslanders embarking on long road trips this Easter, drivers are reminded that even a momentary lapse in concentration can have devastating consequences.
'A driver who is sleep deprived can be impaired at the same level of someone over the legal alcohol limit, severely impacting judgement in speed and stopping times, creating moments of distraction and lane drifting and, in extreme cases, can lead to falling asleep at the wheel, with potentially catastrophic consequences,' Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
Drivers are reminded to stop every two hours for at least 15 minutes to rest and recharge.
The below map has been developed as a guide for travellers to plan rest stops when travelling outside major cities with each ring showcasing fatigue zones.
Chief Superintendent Wheeler also urged motorists to exercise patience and caution during their travels.
'We understand that holiday traffic, road works, and long travel times can be frustrating, but reckless or aggressive driving only increases the risk for everyone on the road,' Chief Superintendent Wheeler said.
'Weaving through traffic won't get you to your destination faster, and tailgating won't make the driver ahead of you speed up. Pressuring others who are driving responsibly only puts lives at risk.'
Police are calling on all motorists to remain patient, plan their journeys carefully, and look out for one another on the roads this Easter.
The Queensland Police Service is committed to reducing the number of lives lost on our roads.
Every choice you make behind the wheel, matters. Driving under the influence, speeding, driving distracted or not wearing a seatbelt puts your life – and the lives of others – at serious risk. These dangerous behaviours will not be tolerated. Queenslanders can expect police – anywhere, anytime.
Safer roads start with you.
