This was amply demonstrated within the Oxley Local Area Command (LAC) during Operation Stay Alert, with more than 40 people charged with speeding on Saturday – which was surprisingly high, officers said.

Tamworth Police Leading Senior Constable Aaron Turner said a “noticeable” number of speeding infringements were given out over the long-weekend police operation.

He said 20 speeding infringements were also given out on Friday, “so speeding is still a concern”.

“We’re concerned that people still aren’t getting the message,” Senior Constable Turner said. 

He said more than 1000 breath tests had been conducted within the Oxley LAC from midnight Thursday up to 4pm yesterday.

In the Barwon LAC, Moree Police Inspector Martin Burke said drink-driving was a concern.

“It’s disappointing to see people are still not complying with the law and this was highlighted at 2.30am yesterday when a 50-year-old male was stopped in North St, Boggabilla due to his manner of driving,” Inspector Burke said.

The driver was given a random breath-test, allegedly tested positive, was taken back to Boggabilla Police Station and allegedly gave a high reading in a further test, with his license suspended on the spot. 

He was given a field attendance notice to appear in Boggabilla Local Court on July 8.

Operation Stay Alert, a statewide police initiative over the long weekend, is in force until just before midnight tonight.

It is targeting impaired driving because of alcohol or drugs, fatigue, not wearing seatbelts or helmets and speeding.

“We have increased random breath- tests and an increased highway patrol presence,” senior constable Turner said. 

Inspector Martin Burke said the operation had been going fairly well in the Barwon LAC.

“We want people to remain vigilant through the holiday period with their manner of driving: we’ve still got people being detected for traffic offences,” he said.

He said drivers should “monitor fatigue and don’t drink and drive”.