Sunshine Coast police visible for 2025 Australia Day weekend patrols

High-visibility patrols, random breath tests and compliance checks will be in place as police prepare for a busy Australia Day weekend on the Sunshine Coast.

A Queensland Police traffic officer waves drivers to pull over to perform a random breath test. Picture: Brendan Radke

Sunshine Coast police are stepping up patrols to ensure a safe and enjoyable Australia Day long weekend, focusing on roads, beaches and waterways.

Sunshine Coast District Officer Superintendent Craig Hawkins said residents and visitors should expect an increased police presence across the region.

“We have bolstered our high-visibility policing presence over the weekend with a focus on road safety and alcohol-fuelled violence,” Superintendent Hawkins said.

“Police will be situated across the Sunshine Coast, including at public events, to prevent and target anti-social behaviour, public order offences and drink-driving.

Sunshine Coast District Officer, Superintendent Craig Hawkins at a press conference outside Kawana Waters Police Station.

“Though I’m expecting a relaxed weekend for all, I’m confident we are well-prepared to handle any situation that may arise.”

The Sunshine Coast highway patrol, supported by the road policing task force, will monitor to Noosa North Shore at the weekend.

Their focus will include illegally modified vehicles, hooning, drink-driving, speeding and seatbelt offences.

Acting Senior Sergeant Nathan Richards, officer in charge of the highway patrol, urged beach drivers to follow the rules.

“Teewah Beach and the camp zones are all 40km per hour speed limit, which will be enforced with zero tolerance,” Sergeant Richards said.

“Driving on the beach is just like driving on any other road, the same road rules apply.”

Sgt Richards added that random breath testing sites and patrols would be active across the Sunshine Coast district, targeting speeding, drink and drug driving, seatbelt offences, fatigue, and distraction.

High-visibility patrols, random breath tests, and compliance checks will be in place as police prepare for a busy Australia Day weekend on the Sunshine Coast. Picture: Brendan Radke

Water police will also ramp up their presence, with officers monitoring compliance and safety on the region’s waterways.

Sunshine Coast Water Police Officer in Charge Sergeant Kyle Bates said boaties should prioritise safety and stay alert to weather conditions.

“Those undertaking activities such as fishing, jet skiing, sailing, or paddleboarding are reminded to prepare and pay close attention to the weather and possible risks before heading out,” Sergeant Bates said.

“We will have zero tolerance for noncompliance with safety regulations, including lifejacket use and trip planning.”

Sgt Bates emphasised the dangers of alcohol or drug use while boating.

“These substances impair reaction capacity, vision, and judgment, which can have dangerous consequences,” he said.

Originally published as Sunshine Coast police visible for 2025 Australia Day weekend patrols