Move FM Regional news

BATHURST, Central West, NSW, Australia – Drivers in the region are being asked to take it easy on the roads this Easter, and to avoid taking risks that could lead to death or injury.

The Great Western Highway from the Blue Mountains through to the Central West is expected to be busy, so too the Mitchell Highway.

Following a string fatalities on Central West roads in recent weeks, NSW Police are pulling out all stops to urge drivers to take extra care.

Operation Tortoise, the state’s Easter long-weekend road safety operation, will start at midnight Thursday and will run until 12 noon on Easter Monday.

Police will be targeting all speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle-helmet offences.

Western Region Traffic Tactician, Inspector Ben Macfarlane, said police in the state’s west would continue focusing on arterial roads, many leading to some of the major routes in and out of NSW.

"This includes feeder roads leading to major routes such as the New England, Newell, Barrier and Mitchell highways," Insp Macfarlane said Tuesday.

"With Easter and Anzac Day holidays so close together this year, we will see more cars on the road, so allow extra travel time and don’t let impatience push you into taking risks."

"Drive to the conditions, stick to the speed limit and get a good night’s sleep before you travel," he said.

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott, said police will be out in force ensuring motorists obey speed limits.

"This is an exciting time of year when families get together and enjoy themselves. We want everyone to have a great time during the break," he said Tuesday.

"Often families hit the road for a holiday with the kids, so we want every motorist to take great care behind the wheel this Easter and Anzac Day and ensure they arrive safety at their destination."

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads, and ther Local Member Paul Toole, said it was important everyone took responsibility on the road.

"We want everyone to make it to their destination safely over the break and help us drive the road toll Toward Zero," Mr Toole said Tuesday.

"If you’re travelling over the next week make sure you plan ahead, get a good night’s sleep, drive to the conditions, stick to the speed limit and never ever risk driving if there’s a chance you could be affected by drugs or alcohol."

Double demerits will return at midnight Wednesday 24 April and end at midnight on Sunday 28 April 2019 as part of Operation Go Slow during the Anzac Day weekend.