Warning: Aussie families warned of Easter’s grim reality

Aussie families have been warned of the grim reality surrounding the Easter long weekend.

Minister for Police and Corrective Services Mark Ryan (left) and Assistant Commissioner Ben Marcus warned Queenslanders of deadly roads in the lead up to Easter. Picture: Supplied/QPS

Queensland drivers have been urged to stay safe on the roads during April after six deaths were recorded last Easter holiday weekend.

Police launched a massive Easter Road Safety campaign in a press conference on Friday as the state braces for increased travel during the school holiday period.

Minister Police and Corrective Services and Minister Fire and Emergency Services Mark Ryan said holiday goers can expect to see police patrolling the roads “anywhere and everywhere” across the state.

Minister for Police and Corrective Services Mark Ryan (right) and Assistant Commissioner Ben Marcus are urging families to plan for a safe road trip this Easter. Picture: Supplied/QPS

“While you can expect to see police anywhere, anytime, it is so important for everyone to do what they can to ensure a safe drive.” he said.

“It only takes one poor decision for these holidays to end in disaster for you, your family or other road users.”

The warning follows last year’s Easter long weekend which saw more than 20 people killed on the roads – six in Queensland.

The state also fell victim to 105 crashes during Easter in 2021.

In that period, police conducted 1298 roadside drug tests, with 219 drivers issued fines.

There were more than 4700 infringement notices, including 2349 speeding offences.

Police will be on high alert patrolling the state leading up to the Easter long weekend. Picture: Patrick Woods

Assistant Commissioner Ben Marcus said while safety is a top priority, the roads are everyone’s responsibility.

“There will be increased traffic on our roads, all throughout the state,” he said.

“One life lost is too many. Help us make sure there is no dampener on this holiday period for you or your loved ones.”

Authorities have urged those driving on unfamiliar roads to take regular breaks and drive to the conditions and speed limits.

Originally published as Warning: Aussie families warned of Easter’s grim reality