QUEENSLAND ROAD SAFETY WEEK

Monday the 18th August through to Friday 22nd August is Queensland Road Safety Week. A week dedicated in Queensland for sending a message for all road users about the choices they make could save a life or take one.

Police across the State are asking road users to pause and reflect on how they drive ride walk or use our roads. Like my previous article road safety is a shared responsibility, whether you are a driver, passenger or pedestrian. One poor decision can lead to life long consequences so this week we are asking everyone to drive smart and stay safe for your family, your mates and every Queenslander.

Queensland Police are committed to reducing the trauma on Queensland roads, but we can’t do that without your help. It’s not just about fatalities. We are seeing a rising number of people left with life changing injuries including spinal damage, traumatic brain injuries and amputations.

This year alone, data from the Motor Accident Insurance Commission (MAIC) shows the number of people left with road crash injuries is increasing, with 3,526 injury claims this year, 262 of those with serious injury, compared to 3,214 the year prior, of which 236 were serious injuries. These are mums, dads, mates and colleagues whose lives and families will never be the same. All it takes is one moment of distraction one wrong judgement or one tired blink and a life can be shattered.

There is no excuse for getting behind the wheel while impaired by alcohol or drugs. Plan ahead so you can get home safely. Nominate a designated driver. Book a rideshare or taxi. Stay overnight if needed. The safest choice is to plan before you drink not after.

Motorcycle riders, pedestrians, cyclists, e-scooter and e-bike users are among our most vulnerable road users. They have less protection than those in vehicles and are more likely to be seriously hurt in a crash. Actively check for these users, especially when changing lanes. Follow the road rules and be alert of your surroundings at all times.

As of the 18th August 2025, 178 lives have been tragically lost on Queensland roads this year. Many of these deaths were the result of speeding or dangerous driving. Every life lost is one too many and these high numbers are why we have increased our presence on the roads. If you don’t want to listen to me, listen to the greatest full back to ever play the game of Rugby League.

In local news Whitsunday Station has been busy of late. We’ve seen an increase in anti-social behaviour down the Main Street of Airlie Beach the last couple of weekends. Mostly between the hours 1am and 3am (the time when most people are making their smartest decisions). Incidents are generally when the licenced venues have closed, and people are waiting for Taxi’s to drive them home. Please can I ask that you be patient with each other. Plan to leave earlier, as I know there is a delay in Taxi services at that time of night. Don’t let your evening be ruined by a trip to the Airlie Beach Hilton with the local Constabulary. But if you do, please leave a positive review.

Contributed with thanks to Contributed with thanks to Senior Sergeant Officer in Charge of Whitsunday Police Station Anthony Moynihan

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