By Callum Ludwig
A Hooning Community Reference group is set to be established to cut out the increased hoon behaviour seen over the last few years.
The Upper Yarra has been subject to hoon drivers wreaking havoc already this year, with three incidents already reported in 2022.
A Government spokesperson said Victoria has some of the strongest anti-hoon laws in the country.
“Drivers face severe penalties including license suspension, car impoundment and forfeiture – but we will not settle until our roads and communities are safe,” they said.
“Through the Hooning Community Reference Group we will find new ways to reduce hooning on Victorian roads and ensure everyone can get home safely.”
Motorists caught travelling 45 km/hr or more over the speed limit or 145 km/hr or more in a 110 km/h zone can have their licence suspended immediately.
The reference group will bring together community members and key stakeholders with experts in road safety across government, enforcement and research bodies to develop a new Victorian Hoon Driving Action Plan.
The group is set to target key hooning hot spots, promoting education, intervention and deterrence. A local viewpoint will be taken into account as part of developing targeted action plans, with community roundtable discussions set to take place, including in regional areas.
Sergeant at Yarra Junction Police Jason Kelly said due to recent incidents, local police are committed to reducing the hoon behaviour that has become prevalent in the Valley.
“Due to our resources, this response is by and large reactive, with the majority of proactive work being accomplished by the Highway Patrol,” he said.
“That being said, Victoria Police as a whole is supporting National Road Safety Week this week and we will be focussing on distraction offences and pedestrian safety.”
All drivers who commit a hoon-related offence can have their vehicle impounded and if convicted by the court, are required to undertake a compulsory program which specifically addresses underlying motivations contributing to hoon behaviour. Repeat offenders may be ordered by court to forfeit their vehicle which can be sold or disposed of by police.
Yarra Ranges Highway Patrol said previously that hoon activity in the Upper Yarra may be caused by a group of hoons egging each other on and encouraging repeat behaviour, with an incident in Wesburn and another driver who engaged in activity throughout the Upper Yarra linked.
