QLD: Covert cameras for easter

[GS608]

http://www.couriermail.com.au/news/f...-1225847175642

ANYTIME, anywhere. And you won't even know you've been caught until it's too late.

Covert speed cameras will be deployed on Queensland roads for the first time from Thursday, coinciding with the traditional Easter holiday break.

Descriptions of the three unmarked vehicles containing the hidden cameras are such closely guarded secrets that not even the Police Minister knows what they look like.

The only clue authorities are releasing today is that they could be any make or model, rather than from the well-known fleet of 40 speed-camera vans and 4WDs.

Two unmarked police motorcycles will also join the war on speed, with officers dressed as normal riders to catch unsuspecting motorists.

Police Minister Neil Roberts last night told The Courier-Mail that chances of being unwittingly caught would be a "powerful motivator" for motorists to slow down.

"There is clear evidence which shows that increasing the chance and uncertainty of detection is a powerful motivator in changing people's driving habits," he said. "With covert speed cameras now on the roads, motorists will need to consider whether a vehicle parked on the side of the road is fitted with a speed camera."

Mr Roberts said even he hadn't been briefed on what the vehicles looked liked.

"I haven't even seen them and I don't want to, to be honest with you," he said.

The roll-out of covert speed cameras is a significant shift in policy direction for the State Government as it desperately tries to reduce the road toll.

While police have long deployed hand-held speed guns, motorists are warned about fixed speed cameras while the vans and 4WD fleet are clearly identifiable.

There have been 36 fewer deaths on Queensland roads compared with this time last year, however, the two-week Easter period usually heralds an increase in fatalities.

The three covert cameras will be placed around the southeast, with more units to come for the rest of the state.

Police Commissioner Bob Atkinson said the covert units account for up to 30 per cent of mobile speed cameras.

"The use of covert cameras is about saving lives and we make no apology for using whatever tool is available to prevent trauma on our roads."

we're pretty much screwed now, seems to be going the way of VIC

I have just found this..the cars revealed

http://www.roadsmart.com.au/articles/latest.html

3X white BA utes
3X white VZ utes
1X VW Golf