Gympie Police have charged five individuals with drink driving following a series of random breath tests conducted over the weekend. The charges come as a stern reminder from local law enforcement about the perils of driving under the influence.

Late Saturday night, a sequence of events unfolded starting at 9.10 pm when a 21-year-old man from Gympie, on provisional (green P) plates, was stopped and tested on Calton Terrace, showing a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.088%. This was followed by a 54-year-old woman from Curra who was stopped at 11.20 pm on Exhibition Road in Southside, recording a BAC of 0.066%. Shortly thereafter, a 24-year-old man was stopped on Tozer Street, recording a high BAC of 0.123% and was also charged with unlicensed driving. The night continued with more stops, including a 28-year-old from Carters Ridge, who recorded a BAC of 0.084% after being stopped on Reef Street at 11.50 pm. The operation concluded early Sunday morning when a 53-year-old woman from Curra was intercepted, showing a BAC of 0.103%.

Acting Senior Sergeant Reegan Cunningham expressed deep disappointment over the number of offenses in one night, emphasizing that such reckless behavior jeopardizes not just the drivers but all road users. He stressed the community’s role in ensuring road safety and the harsh consequences of choosing to drive after drinking.

Gympie police urge the public to make responsible choices such as planning ahead for transportation if consuming alcohol. These measures, they say, can significantly reduce the risk of tragic outcomes and enhance safety for everyone on the road.