Be wise on roads

By Meg Kennedy

Moorabool emergency services are urging residents to be careful this holiday season after a tragic start.

A woman has died, and a baby injured following a crash at Balliang East on Friday, 13 December.

Police believe the vehicle left Geelong-Bacchus Marsh Road and struck a tree just after 2.15pm.

The driver died at the scene, whilst the infant was transported via ambulance to the Royal Children’s Hospital.

Police will be out in full force over the holiday period as part of Operation Roadwise, a 24-day state-wide road campaign, which commenced on Friday, 13 December.

Holiday hotspots and dangerous drivers will be the target of a Victoria Police operation aimed at keeping road users safe this Christmas.

Operation Roadwise follows a tragic year on Victorian roads, with more than 250 lives lost, and will target dangerous driving, drug driving and irresponsible behaviour.

Drivers are reminded not to drink or take drugs if they’re planning to drive, and to use simple strategies that can reduce risks on the road, including driver reviver strategies to avoid fatigue, staying off mobile phones while driving, and being alert on unfamiliar roads.

“Arrive alive is the simple message. Stay safe and take a break when driving long distances and please obey road rules and the speed limit,” said Bacchus Marsh Police Constable Mitch Ramage.

SES members shared the sentiment.

“Take care on roads as we are not wanting to cut people out of cars,” said Bacchus Marsh SES Unit Controller Bill Robson.

As well as driving, holiday makers are urged to be aware of fire when camping, including no burning off without a permit and no campfires.

“If you are bush camping, considerable care is to be taken as no campfires are permitted. Anywhere you are going these holidays, be prepared, this includes bush walking in foreign terrain,” said Mr Robson.

Operation Roadwise will run to Sunday 5 January 2020.