A Christmas tree decorated with 289 baubles has marked the launch of Queensland’s annual road safety blitz.
That’s how many lives have been lost on roads across the state this year, with police hoping the confronting symbol will serve as a warning to anyone hitting the roads this festive season.
“These are not just numbers… they represent a parent, child, partner, mate,” Police Commissioner Steve Gollschewski said.
“Their absence is permanent and has profound impacts on their loved ones’ lives.”
The operation, dubbed X-Ray Mistletoe, officially kicks off tomorrow and will run throughout the entire holiday period into the new year.
It’ll see an increased police presence across the entire state, particularly high-risk locations, with targeted crackdowns on speeding and impaired driving, including drink and drug driving.
Thousands of roadside and on-water tests will be conducted, supported by specialist officers, mobile patrols and targeted enforcement strategies.
Commissioner Gollschewski urged Queenslanders to take ownership of the choices they make behind the wheel.
“Every decision you make behind the wheel matters,” he said.
“Whether you’re heading to a Christmas party, driving to a holiday destination or out on the water, expect to see police.
“If you choose to speed, drink or drug drive, or take risks, you will be caught”.
As the state heads into its busiest travel period, police say their goal is simple: no more baubles on the tree.
“We want every Queenslander to arrive home safely,” Commissioner Gollschewski said.
“This holiday season, make the choices that save lives”
