Targeting hoons

By Snr Sgt Alex O'Toole - Southbank Police Station Melbourne and Yarra Highway Patrol conducted Operation TRACTION from Friday, December 2 to Sunday, December 4 targeting Lorimer St near South Wharf in Docklands, and Lygon St in Carlton. Lorimer St has attracted hoon drivers and Victoria Police were out and about to detect drivers committing traffic offences. A total of 55 penalty notices were issued for a range of offences including parking, mobile phone, speeding and general traffic offences. Three vehicles were issued with defect notices, two drivers will be issued with a summons to appear at court due to driving while suspended and one vehicle was impounded due the driver having a suspended licence. If residents are aware of hooning behaviour, please call 000 for police attendance. Motorised scooters Motorised or electric scooters have been the topic of much discussion. There has been a big increase in usage following lockdown and the reluctance of people to use public transport during the COVID pandemic. Electric scooters may be ridden on footpaths, shared paths and some roads only if they have a top speed of 10 km per hour on level ground, about double the speed of a brisk walking pace, and have a power output of 200 watts or less. Riding a non-compliant electric scooter anywhere other than on private property can incur a fine – the current fine amount is $826. If an electric scooter fails to meet these requirements, it is classified as a motor vehicle. If classified as a motor vehicle, the electric scooter must be registered, and the rider must have a valid motorcycle licence. Southbank Police along with the Melbourne Highway Patrol are looking at conducting some enforcement in the New Year surrounding the use of electric scooters that are not compliant. For additional information regarding the road rules regarding electric scooters head to the Vicroads website – vicroads.vic.gov.au New Year’s Eve celebrations New Year’s Eve will look different in Melbourne this year. Fireworks will not form part of the City of Melbourne’s New Year’s Eve celebrations, instead the council is showing its support for the local culinary scene with New Year Street Feasts – a two-day dining experience from December 31 to Friday, January 1. As usual the police will have large contingent working on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day for public order management. This will ensure everyone can enjoy their New Year’s Eve celebrations safely. I take this opportunity to wish everyone a very Merry Christmas and a safe and Happy New Year •