Random Ramblings

3 weeks ago I sent an email off to the Qld Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR).  This was to inform the department about my observations about the point-to-point speed camera on the Bruce Highway. An initial response said that it had been passed to the team responsible for Speed Cameras and a response would be received by 2nd June.

A response was received on 31st May…

The proximity of the camera site to the Johnston Road exit was considered when looking at the location for the first camera. In Queensland, there is a requirement to meet strict site selection guidelines in relation to the location of our camera sites. Some of the key considerations in relation to the placement of fixed speed cameras are a demonstrated history of speed related crashes, and a location where the use of other enforcement methods is difficult or unsafe. While the camera is located close to the Johnston Road exit, as drivers are required to slow down to 60 km/h for the off ramp it is unlikely they will gain a time advantage through this behaviour. When the point-to-point camera system becomes operational driver behaviour will be monitored.

Even beside the fact the relative ease of avoiding detection (the driver I witnessed didn’t slow down to 60km/h as was “required”), in my opinion it wouldn’t matter whether the camera was placed a few hundred metres either side of the interchange in order to be a little more efficient.  I doubt that there have been more “speed related crashes” under the bridge than at any point in the stretch leading up to the exit or past it.  As for where another enforcement method is difficult or unsafe, it doesn’t seem as though this is a place where a mobile speed camera couldn’t be used.

I’m yet to be convinced that the Government has fully thought this through and didn’t rush out and put these cameras in place in order to “look” as though they are doing something. I know what you’re thinking .. no surprises there.