Cops drug test truckers

By Jo Kennett

TRUCK DRIVERS were targeted in an operation on the M1 at the Chinderah Heavy Vehicle Safety Station (pictured right) , with several being charged over positive drug tests.

Operation Convoy was conducted by the Traffic Operations Group from Tuesday, February 7, to Thursday, February 9.

“One hundred and eighty-nine heavy vehicles were stopped at Chinderah weigh station and all were breath and drug tested,” Far North Coast Highway Patrol Traffic Management Inspector Dave Vandergriend said.

“Nine tested positive in random drug tests, 105 penalty notices were issued for fatigue, load/dimension, administrative (log book) offences, and 16 charges were laid for fatigue and log book offences.

“Local highway patrol also joined them for the operation.”