SYKES SUPPORTS SEIZING HOON CARS

Victoria Police power to seize hoons cars on the spot was strongly supported by Nationals Spokesperson for Police and Emergency Services, Bill Sykes, in Parliament last week.

Dr Sykes said, “Victoria Police must have the same powers as interstate colleagues to seize cars being driven in a dangerous manner, commonly referred to as hooning, and includes doing donuts, burnouts and street racing.”

“Hooning is both anti-social and outright dangerous for drivers, passengers, spectators and ordinary members of the public.”

Dr Sykes continued, “In supporting tougher police powers I argued strongly that the minority of young people who hoon must take responsibility for their actions and respect other people’s safety and interests first as the majority of the community do.”

“The Nationals believe that in addition to this tough legislation there needs to be greater emphasis on driver education both pre-licence and in the first few years after gaining a drivers licence.”

“The Nationals strongly support compulsory driver education in both primary and secondary schools and continue to push the Bracks Government to retain the Police Schools Involvement Program as part of the student driver education.”

“An attitude of respect for other road users and being aware of potential risks and driving accordingly are the key messages of young driver training,” according to Dr Sykes.

Dr Sykes is a strong supporter of local school based driver education programs which have been initiated and implemented in Alexandra, Myrtleford, Mt Beauty, Bright and Beechworth by local Rotary Clubs and other community groups.

In addition to the community driver education programs, DECA at Shepparton and Winton Motor Precinct also provide venues for young driver training.

Dr Sykes made specific reference to young Benalla Racing driver Martin Doxey who is conducting both pre-licence and post licence driver training courses.

Dr Sykes said, “Martin Doxey is passionate about helping young people develop a responsible attitude to driving and to drive according to prevailing conditions.”

Dr Sykes concluded, ”There are plenty of opportunities for drivers to test their skills legally – for example rally driving or participating in drifting competitions at Winton or the SpringNats Competitions at DECA Shepparton.”

“I encourage all drivers to drive responsibly on our roads and for those who want to hoon – be warned your cars will be confiscated.”

Media contact: Bill Sykes (03) 5762 2100 or 0427 624 989