General News
18 April, 2025
Police gearing up for busy time
FAR Northern police are gearing up for a busy two weeks, ensuring everyone travelling around the region stays safe.
Locals and visitors can expect to see an increased presence on the roads and on the water, conducting high-visibility operations until 21 April.
Cairns Water Police Officer-in-Charge Sergeant Andrew Ibell said boaties must remain vigilant and prepare properly for trips.
“It’s important to keep an eye on the weather conditions, and make sure you pack safety equipment including lifejackets and an EPRIB, and always tell someone where you are going and when you plan to return,” he said.
“Like on the roads, being under the influence of drugs or alcohol while operating a vessel is illegal, and can be extremely dangerous.
“Alerting family or friends or reporting your trip to the local Volunteer Marine Rescue group or Coast Guard could help save your life in the event of an emergency.
“Check your vessel is properly maintained and have a plan if you get into trouble.”
The Cairns Highway Patrol Unit will also be keeping drivers in check, with Operation X-Ray Easter launching last week, and continuing throughout the school holidays.
Officers will be particularly focusing on drink and drug driving, ensuring everyone makes it home safely.
Officer-in-charge of the Cairns Highway Patrol Unit Senior Sergeant Craig Johnson, said police could be anywhere and at any time, using high-visibility patrols and covert operations to keep road users safe.
“It’s critical that drivers and riders stay alert and avoid the fatal five: driving under the influence, speeding, fatigue, distraction, and failing to wear a seatbelt correctly,” he said.
“Police will do whatever it takes to increase safety on our roads, creating safer drivers, safer vehicles and safer communities.”
