Geraldton police traffic campaign for WA Day long weekend and Mullewa Muster with double demerits in force

With the Mullewa Muster approaching, police will be out in force during the WA Day long weekend, in Geraldton and Mullewa. “There will be an increased presence in Mullewa for the Mullewa Muster, as well as on roads and highways leading to Mullewa and Geraldton,” Geraldton police traffic officer-in-charge Sgt Ron Pace said. Aside from traffic warnings, Sgt Pace said the community should be diligent when it came to protecting property when going away or camping for the weekend. “This may be a good time to remind people camping in Mullewa for the muster to ensure they secure their property and not to leave valuables where they could be stolen,” Sgt Pace said. “Thieves target these sorts of events.” Double demerit points apply from midnight on Thursday to midnight on Monday for speeding, seatbelt offences, illegal use of mobile phones, driving while affected by alcohol or drugs, and running red lights. “Remember, every police vehicle is a random breath testing station, as well as a random drug wipe station,” Sgt Pace said. He said speed cameras would be in place over the weekend. Police reminded the community fatigue-related road deaths and serious injuries were not restricted to rural and regional roads, and serious accidents were not limited to long-distance driving. Geraldton police officer-in-charge Sen. Sgt Chris Martin said it was going to be a busy long weekend in Geraldton, with the muster expected to draw in a big crowd. “There will be an increased police presence in the Mid West area,” he said. “By all means, enjoy an extra day off — if you get one — just be mindful, be safe on the roads, and enjoy the journey. “Don’t drink and drive, don’t use drugs and drive, don’t use your mobile phone.” Road statistics show in the Mid West-Gascoyne region, 54 people died in reported crashes between 2016 and 2020. So far in 2022, 57 people have been killed on WA roads, 40 of them in regional areas.