An education campaign which has been running for several years will take a step up in August with a two-day “community engagement” of riders on road safety.

Nerang Police Station and Coomera Road Policing Unit are planning the event at the Numinbah Valley Hall on Saturday and Sunday 24-25 August 2019 leading into Road Safety Week.

Sgt Graeme Reeves says the weekend is “all about information and education”.

It continues the Operation North Upright program Nerang Police Station has been running for the past few years with regular one-day events.

Sgt Reeves says the previous events have been well supported by Gold Coast district motorcycle clubs.

“We will be advertising for community members, especially those who are keen motorcycle enthusiasts, to drop in during their ride where attending emergency personnel can offer information around safe riding practices and legislation when riding on Queensland roads,” he says.

There will also be a free raffle for all who attend with prizes of motorcycle safety gear such as boots and gloves.

Sgt Reeves has invited motorcycle clubs to attend and “assist in promoting Road Safety Week over this weekend to your club members”.

He can be contacted via his work email.

Education campaign

Riders are invited to attend the education campaign and ask questions of the police, ambulance, fireys and Department of Transport and Main Roads officials.

Questions can include bike the legality of bike modifications, helmet rules or various road rules.

While riders may be reticent to approach the police for fear of being fined, police have assured riders the event is for community engagement only, not for enforcement.

Police say Operation North Upright is designed to “talk with any bike riders, give advice and listen to their concerns”.

Riders have claimed previous similar events have been accompanied by a high presence of police in the area, enforcing road rules and vehicle compliance.

Road Safety messages from Operation North Upright

• The faster you go, the harder you hit. And on a bike, you’ll always come off second‐best. The only thing speeding gets you closer to is a crash.
• Riding tired affects reaction times and impairs judgement. Take a break or don’t get on the bike if you’re tired.
• Ride to be seen and don’t assume you’re visible to everyone.
• Lane filtering is legal, remember to be safe and follow the road rules.
• Look after yourself and your bike. The right gear and regular maintenance can save your life.

Online ‘Join the Drive’ resources: 

Source: MotorbikeWriter.com