Casey Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant John Felton is urging drivers and riders to take care on the roads this weekend with the MRA Cranbourne GP Run. 77512 Picture: STEWART CHAMBERS
By BRIDGET COOK
CASEY’s Highway Patrol will be out in force this weekend to ensure driver and rider safety for those heading to the Phillip Island Moto GP.
Casey Highway Patrol Senior Sergeant John Felton said local police would be conducting Operation Campbell, which will see divisional highway patrol units patrolling throughout Casey and Cardinia.
The operation will start on Friday and run through until Monday.
“Each patrol unit will be tasked to enforcement activities designed to ensure road safety is a priority for everyone attending this event,” he said.
“In addition to road policing, police from Casey will be out in force for the return ride on the Sunday after the Moto GP to monitor spectator behaviour.
“In recent years the event has seen minimal trouble, something we are keen to continue this year.
“While we don’t expect any trouble we will have police resources in place to ensure the event is enjoyable for everyone.
“We won’t tolerate poor behaviour.”
Sen Sgt Felton said the MRA Cranbourne GP Run wave off itself was expected to see more than 4000 motorcycles travel together to Phillip Island under police escort – so safety was paramount.
“Take your time, enjoy your ride and have consideration for everyone else using our roads over the Moto GP weekend,” he said.
“Wear appropriate safety gear and ensure your bike is roadworthy and mechanically sound.
“Even though the GP Run will be under escort, riders need to maintain safe braking distances between bikes and continually concentrate on those ahead, around and behind you.
“Don’t get distracted and enjoy your ride.”
Sen Sgt Felton said it wasn’t just about riders, but spectators to the wave-off also needed to take care.
“Spectators are asked not to interfere with riders, stay well back from moving bikes,” he said.
“Drivers are also asked to ‘think bike’ as the saying goes.”
