A total of 19 drivers were detected driving with drugs in their system during a 13-day police operation aimed at reducing trauma on the region’s roads. 

Ballarat Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant Pat Cleary slammed this section of drivers for failing to heed advise and understand the potential trauma their decisions could lead to. Overall, police were relatively pleased with Operation Nexus results but say drivers need to remember that speed, fatigue, drug and drink driving are major contributors to fatalities. 

“Among all the known causes to our trauma – drug driving was particularly targeted (by police) and as a result a high number of drug drivers were detected,” Senior Sergeant Cleary said. 

“The message is taking drugs and driving simply don’t go together. The results can be devastating.” 

Senior Sergeant Cleary urged drug takers to remember that illicit substances can stay in a person’s system for a long period of time – and those who chose to take drugs should not drive. Statewide, the number of drug-taking driver was also high, with one in 14 drivers tested for drugs returning a positive result.

“What is of concern is that over 1400 motorists should not have been on the roads, being picked up by police for disqualified, suspended or unlicensed driving,” Acting Deputy Commissioner Doug Fryer said.

Senior Sergeant Cleary said most drink drivers returned relatively low-range readings – suggesting drivers were underestimating the effects of consumed alcohol. Also of concern were the 94 drivers detected speeding in the Ballarat region, however this relatively low compared to the more than 200 picked up for speeding in the Moorabool region. 

“Generally, Ballarat motorists can be commended for their driving and heeding the messages during this operation period which has resulted in relatively low trauma which is a trend we all need.”