Motorbike warning for Rail Trail

January 17, 2024

Residents along the North-East Rail Trail at Tonganah are fed up with motor bike riders illegally using the facility, nearly hitting other users and frightening cattle along the route.

One resident who did not want to be identified said the latest incident on Christmas Day led to their cattle being shocked and escaping through fences while another act in November saw two runners nearly ran over.

“Someone is really going to get hurt one day and the Police need to monitor the area – by the time we hear them and get out there to take details they have ridden off,” the resident said.

North-East Division Acting Inspector Rob King said no official reports had been made about either of the latest acts and called on people to alert them via the Scottsdale Police Station on 131 444 or Crime Stoppers to assist with prosecution.

Police have had one official report made via Crime Stoppers regarding motor bikes in the area, from June 2023.

“The unlawful use of both off-road motorcycles and unregistered road bikes within the community poses a serious risk, not only to the safety of pedestrians and road users, but also to the rider,” Act. Insp King said.

“Hooning, illegal or dangerous driving or riding will not be tolerated, and offending riders can face prosecution and their vehicles may be subject to seizure.

“Police will continue to actively target these behaviours, and we remain committed to enhancing the safety of all road users and the community.

“The more information (make/model/colour of bike, description of rider/s, date/time/pattern of offending behaviour/s etc), the better the chance of identifying and educating/prosecuting the offender/s.”