South Australia Minister for Police Corey Wingard

Temporary Throw Screens To Tackle Rock Throwing

Victor P Taffa

State Government has continued to roll out its plan to tackle rock throwing on the Southern Expressway with the installation of temporary throw screens.

First of the 2.2-metre-high throw screens will be installed on the Honeypot Road Bridge with installation on all bridges to continue over the next 4-6 weeks.

“New State Government has moved quickly to tackle this very serious longstanding issue and we’re continuing the roll out of our infrastructure solution.” Minister for Police, Emergency Services and Correctional Services Corey Wingard said.

“In addition to these throw screens, we’ve also begun installation of mesh over loose rocks along the expressway and upgrading CCTV cameras.”

“Installation of the remaining throw screens will progressively move north along the Southern Expressway.”

“These throw screens should have been installed years ago but the previous Labor administration chose to cut costs, rather than install measures to keep our community safe.” Minister Wingard said.

“These temporary throw screens will be in place until the design and installation of permanent screens are completed.”

“Traffic restrictions will be in place during installation so motorists are urged to take care when driving past workers and observe any lane and speed restrictions during installation.”

Minister Wingard said that SAPOL’s Operation Watercolour had been very successful with a significant decrease in the number of confirmed reported rock throwing incidents since the operation began.

“South Australian Police have done a great job and Operation Watercolour has been very successful in reducing the number of rock throwing incidents.” Minister Wingard said.

“Police welcome the installation of these throw screens and see it as another step in reducing the potential for further incidents to occur.” Superintendent Yvette Clark, Officer in Charge of the Southern District Policing area said.

“Our commitment to continue with Operation Watercolour is ongoing and we will maintain high visibility and Policing presence along the Southern Expressway precinct.”

“Whilst these throw screens will reduce the opportunity for potential offending we still rely on the community to be our eyes and ears and keep reporting any suspicious behaviour in a timely manner.” Superintendent Yvette Clark said.

 

Abbreviations:

SAPOL           South Australia Police