Motorists across the Hawkesbury are being urged to drive safely this Anzac Day long weekend, with NSW Police Force launching a major statewide operation targeting dangerous driving.
Operation Anzac Day 2026 will run from 12.01am Friday 24 April to 11.59pm Monday 27 April, with police maintaining a high-visibility presence across highways, regional roads and metropolitan areas.
Double Demerits in Place
A double demerit period will apply for the duration of the operation, with officers targeting high-risk behaviours including:
- speeding
- mobile phone use
- failure to wear seatbelts
- motorcycle helmet offences
Police say drivers can expect to see increased patrols throughout the Hawkesbury, particularly on busy routes as traffic volumes rise over the long weekend.
Rising Road Toll a Concern
The operation comes as the NSW road toll continues to climb, with 108 lives lost so far this year, five more than at the same time last year.
Authorities say many of these deaths are preventable and linked to risky driving behaviour.
Strong Warning to Drivers
Yasmin Catley said there would be no tolerance for dangerous driving.
“Let there be no doubt, police will be out in force this long weekend,” she said.
“There is no excuse for speeding, using your mobile phone, or incorrectly wearing a seatbelt. These are not just offences, they are choices – and they could cost you your life.”
Traffic and Highway Patrol Commander Trent King said every driver had a responsibility to make safe decisions.
“We are seeing far too many lives lost on our roads, and every one of those deaths is a tragedy that didn’t need to happen,” he said.
“If you do the wrong thing, you will be stopped, you will be tested, and you will be held accountable.”
Focus on Prevention
Police say the operation is not just about issuing fines, but about preventing crashes before they happen.
“If we can prevent even one family from receiving a knock on the door, it’s worth every resource we put into it,” Acting Assistant Commissioner King said.
Plan Ahead
Drivers are encouraged to plan their journeys, allow extra travel time and check traffic conditions before heading out.
Real-time traffic updates are available via the Live Traffic NSW app, online, or by calling 132 701.
Dangerous driving can be reported to Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.
With more vehicles expected on the road, police are urging Hawkesbury drivers to make safe choices.
Slow down, stay alert, and get home safely.
As the long weekend approaches, the message from authorities is clear: one poor decision behind the wheel can have lifelong consequences.
