NSW Police launch Operation Snow: Safety for these snowy times

June 10, 2022

Due to early heavy snowfalls, the official NSW snow season begins tomorrow (Saturday, June 11th, 2022), with ski resorts anticipating high visitors. NSW Police are advising residents to have a plan and keep 'Snow Safe.'


As part of the high-visibility police operation, more officers from around the state will be deployed to the Snowy Mountains region. Throughout the season, visitors may expect to see officers from the General Duties, Traffic and Highway Patrol Command, Southern Region Enforcement Squad, licencing police, and various speciality officers - including qualified Alpine Operators.


Assistant Commissioner Peter Cotter APM, the Southern Region Commander, said "police will be out and about throughout the season, focusing on road safety, anti-social behaviour, and personal safety."


Monaro Police District Commander, Superintendent John Klepczarek APM, said local police efforts will be bolstered by additional resources.


Paul Toole the Minister for Police, the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional NSW, has asked everyone to be extra cautious on the roads this winter, with double demerits in effect from now until the long weekend.


Hikers visiting the region are also urged to submit a Trip Intention Form and hire a Personal Locator Beacon (PLB) before venturing inside the national park. - Hikers can contact the Snowy Region Visitor Centre for more information or visit: http://www.nationalparks.nsw.gov.au or www.environment.nsw.gov.au.


Beginning at 12:01 a.m. on Friday, June 10, 2022, and ending at 11:59 p.m. on Monday, June 13, 2022, a state-wide traffic operation will run during the Queen's Birthday long weekend. During this time, double demerits will be in effect. More information into Double Demerits can be found here: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/campaigns/double-demerits.html and here: https://www.nsw.gov.au/driving-boating-and-transport/demerits-penalties-and-offences/offences/search-offences-and-penalties


Further information on driving in snowfield conditions can be found by visiting the Centre for Road Safety website: https://roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au/index.html


For general snow safety tips when visiting alpine regions, as well as useful links you can access: http://snowsafe.org.au/