Double demerits will begin on Friday ahead of the long weekend, with thousands expected on the region's roads as travel restrictions are loosened across the state.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Random breath tests and roadside drug tests will be back in force after several months of fewer tests to protect police officers from COVID-19 infection.
Minister for Police and Emergency Services David Elliott said the easing of COVID-19 restrictions on licensed premises and regional travel called for a return of proactive stationary testing operations.
"With the easing of restrictions on travel and going out to support restaurants and pubs ahead of the Queen's Birthday long weekend, the community is understandably itching to return to some form of normalcy," Mr Elliott said.
"Irresponsible or reckless behaviour that endangers others will not be tolerated - there's no excuse for not abiding by the road rules. The community has already been through enough already - we've had enough trauma."
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander, Assistant Commissioner Michael Corboy, said this is the first long weekend since restrictions eased and implored the community to be responsible and drive safely.
"We've had bushfires, flooding and more recently the COVID-19 pandemic so we understand that people are keen to travel regionally to stimulate the local economy, particularly over the long weekend," Assistant Commissioner Corboy said.
"However, there is no excuse to get behind the wheel and flagrantly flout the law. The road rules have not changed, and we make no apologies for stopping selfish road users whose irresponsible driving put themselves and others at risk.
"The message is clear - if your driving puts you or others at risk, you will be stopped, and you will face the consequences of your actions."
DO YOU WANT MORE ORANGE NEWS AND SPORT?
- Receive our free newsletters delivered to your inbox, as well as breaking news alerts. Sign up below ...