Fancy a forest drive? Safety first …

Motorists across the Moreton Bay Region are being reminded by Moreton District Police and HQPlantations that road rules still apply in forests.

It comes at the end of Road Safety Week with police reporting that some motorists are ignoring locked gates and important signs in forests.

“All road rules apply on the beach and in the forestry,” says Officer-in-Charge of Landsborough Road Policing Unit Senior Sergeant Mal Lilley.

“In fact, extra care needs to be taken in these unfamiliar environments that can present unexpected situations or challenges.

“Police conduct regular patrols of both. Drive to the conditions and road rules.”

Top priority

The call is backed by HQPlantations’ Group Manager Stewardship David West.

“Although popular destinations for recreation, plantation forests are busy working forests,” Mr West says.

“Safety is always our number one priority and we are proud to support Road Safety Week.

“For their own safety and the safety of our people and others, drivers and riders on plantation roads must comply with all forest operations signage, drive to the conditions, stay on formed roads and be alert for heavy vehicles and other recreation users.”

Driving tips

To help, Queensland Police and HQPlantations have a list of tips, using the letters of Plantation Driving to start each one.

Protect roads and trails after heavy rainfall

Licence required by anyone operating a motor vehicle

Animals are active in plantation areas

No off-road driving

Take home everything you bring

Always wear safety equipment (helmet)

Take care, drive to road conditions

Illegal to pass road closed signs

Observe forestry signs

No lighting fires

Don’t drive under the influence of alcohol or drugs

Road rules apply in all areas

Inform and report suspicious activity

Vehicles must be registered and roadworthy

Insurance is essential

Night driving is not advisable

Give way, be courteous

Mr West also encourages people to check if the plantation they wish to visit is open before leaving home. This can be done by visiting hqplantations.com.au/closures

In Road Safety Week the Moreton Police District Superintendent John Hallam urging motorists to “think hard” about their driving following 11 fatalities on our roads in July and August – 50 per cent higher than the previous 12 months.
Central to the campaign has been awareness around the Fatal Five:

• Speeding
• Seat Belts
• Drink/Drug Driving
• Fatigue
• Distraction

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