Steven McDonald: speeding construction worker loses licence

A Mid North Coast dad-to-be who lost his licence for a third time after he was clocked going more than 45km over the limit has made a desperate appeal in the weeks before his wife gives birth.

A Mid North Coast dad-to-be has lost his licence for a third time after he was busted way above the speed limit, prompting a desperate appeal for the sake of his expecting wife.

Steven McDonald, 22, was caught by a speed camera going more than 45km/h over the limit along the busy Oxley Highway in May this year.

This offence is the Wauchope man’s 12th on his traffic record over the few short years since he’s been old enough to hold a full licence.

McDonald’s right to drive was automatically suspended for the significant speed he was travelling, making it the third time he’s had his licence taken.

In court this week, he appealed to have the decision overturned due to his need to drive.

“I require my licence for my work, as a construction worker,” McDonald’s application read.

His lawyer Mr McCormack added: “he’s the sole income earner, supporting his wife, and driving is part of his employment.”

The defence also submitted McDonald’s pregnant wife would need help driving given her looming due date in September.

“If I don’t have a licence for the first 3-4 months of our baby’s life, I am concerned that my partner might not be able to drive, depending on how she gives birth, and this would impact her and our baby getting to future appointments,” McDonald explained in his appeal application.

“His wife has gestational diabetes, so she may need to undergo a C-section – in which case, she won’t be able to drive for six weeks after the surgery,” Mr McCormack also told the court.

McDonald appealed to have his suspension overturned in Port Macquarie Local Court this week.

In considering the decision, Magistrate Georgina Darcy reminded McDonald that his traffic record “is not a good one”.

The magistrate also referred to an older precedent before handing down her verdict.

“The circumstances need to be extraordinary, exceptional or unusual for this appeal to be granted,” Ms Darcy explained.

“Without a licence, the person or persons associated with them would undergo significant hardship – I’m not satisfied that this matter meets the special circumstances require to grant your appeal.

“Sadly, many people who come before this court need their licence for work and caring duties.”

The magistrate dismissed the application and McDonald’s licence suspension will be upheld for six months.