The Queen's Birthday Long Weekend is nearly upon us, the last long weekend until October.

As you would expect there will be a lot of locals taking to the roads to make the most of the three days off. In fact, some students have a pupil free day tomorrow (Friday) so for some, it will be a four day weekend.

Police are encouraging motorists to be patient over the long weekend. Officers will be stationed across NSW for Operation Queen’s Birthday 2021 between 12.00am tomorrow (Friday 11 June 2021) and midnight Monday 14 June 2021. 

Double demerit points will again be in force for speeding, mobile phone, seatbelt and motorcycle/helmet offences. 

Police will also continue to target the Four Ds (Drink, Drug, Dangerous and Distracted driving) and are encouraging road users to report these offences. 

Operation Commander Superintendent Stephen Hegarty said police are expecting roads to be busy with people travelling across NSW for the long weekend. 

“Our message is to be patient and obey the road rules in all conditions,” said Superintendent Hegarty. 

“There will be a number of cars on the road as people travel up and down the coast and inland, so we’re asking everyone to be extra careful. Slow down and drive to the conditions.”

“We want everyone to reach their destinations safely and to enjoy the long weekend without tragedy.” 

Minister for Police and Emergency Services, David Elliott MP, said there is no excuse for any behaviour which endangers the lives of others. 

“We want everyone to enjoy the Queen’s Birthday long weekend, but I urge you to do so safely. We do not want any fatalities on our roads,” Mr Elliott said.

“There is no excuse, when you flout the law you put the lives of others at risk. Celebrate safely, abide by the road rules and do not drink and drive.”

Minister for Transport and Roads, Andrew Constance MP, said just five kilometres over the speed limit can make a big difference when it comes to stopping in time and not stopping at all. 

“For everyone out on the road this long weekend, whether you are travelling far from home or just around the corner, stick to the speed limit and drive safely to keep yourself and others safe,” Mr Constance said.

“It is great that we have already seen the number of speeding-related fatalities come down in the past five months, compared to the last three year average, but we really need more people to think about their choices behind the wheel because you can be caught anywhere, anytime.” 

Minister for Regional Transport and Roads Paul Toole urged motorists not start their holiday on the wrong note by doing the wrong thing on our roads.

“We know a lot of people will be heading out to regional NSW this long weekend, so I’m reminding drivers travelling long distances to stop for a break along the way to avoid fatigue, stick to the speed limit, obey the road rules and drive to the conditions,” Mr Toole said.

“The largest proportion of fatigue-related crashes occur between 2pm and 5pm, so plan ahead before you hit the road and allow extra travel time.