Mackay highway patrol stopped more than 25 drug and drunk drivers on NYE

After losing almost 20 drivers to fatal crashes in 2023 and 2022 being the worst year for Mackay roads since 2013, highway patrol has released NYE figures.

Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards says that the behaviour of Mackay drivers has been 'disappointing'. Picture: Fergus Gregg

“Disappointing” New Year’s Eve traffic statistics reveal the region ended the year on a low note after losing 18 drivers to fatal crashes across the Mackay district in 2023.

Senior Sergeant Shane Edwards, the officer in charge of Mackay’s highway patrol unit, said it was “a bit disappointing to see these stats, considering the messaging we’ve put out”.

“We detected 17 drink drivers and eight drug drivers,” Snr Sgt Edwards said.

“This is a combined highway patrol and random breath test figure.

“There were some traffic crashes as a result of drink driving.

“We’ve had no serious crashes in the district and we’re grateful for that.”

The driver was injured after a vehicle crashed onto its side on Midge Point Rd in Bloomsbury. Picture: Fergus Gregg

These statistics were collected on the last night of what has been a bad year for Mackay in terms of road accidents caused by drink driving.

Mackay Forensic Crash Unit officer in charge, Sergeant Michael Hollett, said some of the main factors in 2022’s fatal crashes were alcohol and drug driving.

“2023, especially considering the number of fatal crashes since July 1, is heading towards what we experienced in 2022,” Sgt Hollett said.

2022 was the worst year in the Mackay district for fatal crashes and injuries since 2013.

Mackay Regional Police expressed their “disappointment” in some of the behaviour in the district over New Year’s Eve.

Mackay Forensic Crash Unit officer in charge, Sergeant Michael Hollett, says poor driver behaviour is unacceptable. Picture: Lillian Watkins

Due to the New Year’s Eve storms Mackay district highway patrols and random breath tests were reduced slightly and less stops were made.

“We had similar statistics last year, however, this year we had to pare back our enforcement due to the weather conditions, which is very disappointing,” Sgt Hollett said.

Due to a shift in Queensland Police policy, simultaneous testing for drug and alcohol is now performed if a random breath test is failed, enabling police to determine if a driver is under the influence of both drugs and alcohol.

“The combination of those two in your system behind the wheel can be lethal,” he said.

Senior Sergeant Edwards also warned drivers to be vigilant in the coming weeks as more bad weather was forecast.

“Don’t make the decision to get in the car and drive if you’re under the influence,” he said.

“Remember if you see a flooded crossing, forget it.”