Easter 2024 is around the corner which usually means rain in the Northern Rivers and heavy traffic as people drive up and down the Pacific Motorway.

The weather forecast is for some showers over the four days, although not significant amounts at this stage with temperatures in the mid-twenties.

Double demerit points start after midnight on Thursday with police targeting speeding, motorcycle helmets, seatbelts and mobile phone offences until midnight Monday, 1 April.

Transport for NSW is encouraging those travelling on the Pacific Motorway through northern NSW to plan their trip and allow extra travel time during the Easter long weekend, with high traffic volumes and delays expected. 

Coffs Harbour and Tugun, near the NSW/Queensland border, are two of four known pinch points for people travelling northbound to Queensland on the Pacific Motorway.

The notorious M1 Pacific Motorway upgrades in Queensland will no doubt cause significant traffic delays north of the NSW border. While this work will pause during the Easter period, heavy congestion is expected on the Pacific Motorway north of the NSW border at most times, with the busiest days predicted to be Monday, 1 and Tuesday, 2 April.

As reported yesterday, there will be congestion on the Pacific Motorway through Tyagarah and surrounding roads for Bluesfest.

For the latest traffic updates download the Live Traffic NSW app, visit livetraffic.com or call 132 701.

For the latest information on Queensland traffic conditions refer to qldtraffic.qld.gov.au or call 13 19 40 to receive updates on road incidents, delays or roadwork in real time.

Marine Rescue NSW is also expecting large numbers of boaters to hit the state’s waterways over the Easter long weekend.

Marine Rescue NSW Commissioner Alex Barrell said across the Service’s 46 units, 3,300 volunteers are ready to respond to those needing assistance on the water.

“Marine Rescue NSW has had a busy start to the year with over 1500 search and rescue missions, we are expecting this Easter long weekend to be busy on the water.

“Last Easter our crews completed 109 search and rescue missions over the four days and safely returned 247 people to shore,” he said.

Commissioner Barrell said safety and preparation is paramount to an enjoyable day on the water.

“We're encouraging boaters this weekend to put all their eggs in one basket with the Marine Rescue NSW app. The app gives you live weather updates, safety checklists and importantly, you can Log On with your local Marine Rescue NSW base so that your safe return is being watched by our dedicated volunteers,” he said.

Commissioner Barrell said it only takes a minute to protect a lifetime.

“It is simple to Log On. You can do it over the Marine Rescue app or via VHF marine radio channel 16.

“Keeping across the weather is vital to safe voyage.

“If you're heading out on the water this weekend, make sure that you've got enough safety equipment, you have fuel and fuel and reserve, you've Logged On with your local Marine Rescue NSW base and of course, wear a lifejacket,” he said.

Marine Rescue NSW is a volunteer-based not-for-profit professional organisation dedicated to keeping boaters safe on the water and supporting local communities.

If you are going away and leaving your house unattended, make sure you let a neighbour know so they can keep an eye on your property. There has been an increase in house break-ins and car thefts in Goonellabah, Lismore, Casino, and Ballina in the past three months.