Police to blitz local roads across Melbourne Cup weekend

POLICE across the Geelong region will be champing at the bit to get out on patrol during the lead-up to the Melbourne Cup, with Victoria Police’s annual Operation Furlong set to begin at noon tomorrow (Friday, November 1).

The five-day statewide operation will target the main causes of fatalities and serious injuries in crashes and will finish at midnight on Cup Day (Tuesday, November 5).

Sergeant Brian McKiterick from the Geelong Highway Patrol said the operation’s strategy would be to have a highly visible police presence right across the extended weekend, with officers targeting drink driving, drug driving, speeding, fatigue, people not wearing seatbelts and people using their mobile phones.

“it’s primarily aimed at the Melbourne Spring Racing Carnival and its associated events – at pubs, for example – but we’ll also be spreading it as far as to look at people heading home from barbecues.”

He said drink-driving would be a particular focus.

“The message from police is to leave your car at home, but if you do take it and decide to drink, make the decision to leave your car there and find an alternate form of transport home. If your car is there, there is a temptation to use it.”

He said good weather was expected over the five days, which may encourage metropolitan drivers unfamiliar with the Geelong region’s conditions to take a road trip.

“There’s obviously a concern about the Surf Coast area – higher speed limits, country roads, people may be heading long distances down the Surf Coast and beyond.”

Sgt McKiterick said Operation Furlong did have a positive effect every year.

“The high visibility tends to create a reduced outcome (in terms of offenses) but police can’t be responsible for all driver behaviour.

“If you are doing the wrong thing, you will get booked.”

Drivers planning to travel during this period can expect to see an increase in vehicles travelling on major freeways and highways throughout the state.

All drivers are requested to plan their trip, be patient and ensure that they have frequent breaks when driving long distances.

As well as detecting offences, Operation Furlong’s aim is to provide a highly visible and mobile police presence to reinforce positive driving behaviours and reduce the incidence of road trauma.