November 4, 2015
The next time you’re pulled over by Nanango police for a random breath test, you may well be given a “ticket” … that’s if you blow zero!
Nanango Police and the local Heritage Community Branch have joined together for “Project Sober Roads”.
The idea is that if drivers are doing the right thing – not drinking and driving – they deserve to be rewarded.
So from now until mid-December, drivers who are tested by Nanango police and record “zero” on the roadside test will be handed a voucher as reward.
All the driver has to do is fill in his details on the voucher and drop it into the Heritage Community Branch in Drayton Street, Nanango.
On December 21, a draw will be done at the branch for three prizes: Heritage accounts to the value of $500, $250 and $100.
Officer-in-charge of Nanango Police, Sgt Jason Newton, said he wanted South Burnett drivers to “take the pledge” and blow zero in the lead-up to the festive season.
He said 30 per cent of local traffic crashes involved an impaired driver.
“Starting from this week, there will be static RBT units out at times that we know are high risk because of our traffic data,” Sgt Newton said.
“The idea is to reward the good behaviour of drivers, but they must blow zero – not just under 0.05.”
Heritage Nanango Community Funding director Robert Head said the Community Branch was excited about supporting local police in the project.
“We are striving for a better, safer community,” he said.
“And we hope the winners will establish a long-term banking relationship with the branch. Without loyal and supportive customers, projects like this would not be possible.
“The Nanango branch has been operating since December 2001 and since that time more than $3 million in sponsorship has been provided in the Nanango community.”
Sgt Newton said 500 vouchers had been printed to distribute.
“We ask all residents to take the pledge and blow zero,” Sgt Newton said.
“People who return negative drug tests will also be eligible.
“It also gives police an opportunity to engage positively with people who do the right thing.”
What an excellent initiative – Sgt Newton and Heritage Nanango Community Funding Ltd deserve congratulations – a win-win for all concerned.
Thank you Lloyd for your encouraging comments. We are encouraged by your support.
What a stupid waste of money! This money would be better spent by giving it to the needy. Sorry, can’t condone this.
We who blow zero are the needy mate! Can’t afford to drink or use drugs! Really good idea, bring it to all towns. It definitely has to be helpful.