Crackdown on quad riders
Residents riding unlicensed quad bikes and motorcycles through the streets of Roebourne and Wickham will be the targets of a joint police and ranger operation this month.
Roebourne police Sergeant Jerry Samoa said a lot of residents were tired of hearing off-road vehicles riding up and down their streets.
"Under the Road Traffic Act, you are not permitted to ride these vehicles on the road," he said.
"Helmets are a huge issue as well.
"A lot of people ride in town doubled up and tripled up."
Sgt Samoa said 11 people had been charged with offences under the Road Traffic Act recently and several off-road vehicles had been impounded.
Sgt Samoa said most of the reports related to juveniles.
He appealed to parents who let their children use off-road vehicles to be aware they were not suited to young and inexperienced riders.
"Juveniles should be supervised by a responsible adult at all times," he said.
"Appropriate safety equipment should be worn at all times."
City of Karratha ranger co-ordinator Darrell Hutchens said rangers would help police indentify and apprehend offending riders, and would impound bikes under the City's local laws.
"There is unfortunately a high rate of non-compliance also in Karratha itself," he said.
"Off-road bikes are being ridden in our drain reserves, parks and gardens and across footpaths.
"This creates a nuisance with the noise and dust, and also jeopardises the safety of pedestrians."
In Karratha, the City has applied to the Department of Local Government to extend the off-road vehicle area at Millars Road from 16ha to a 150ha site.
Mr Hutchens said the City hoped the proposed expansion, featuring an advanced endurance trail, motocross track, and junior tracks, would attract local riders.
Illegal off-road vehicle activity can be reported to Roebourne police on 9182 1133, the rangers on 9186 8555 or via the City of Karratha's website.
