Eumundi Voice Issue 120, 26 June 2025

Police Beat

Finally, it is with great pleasure and excitement that I can announce that I have been successful in obtaining the position of Sergeant Officer in Charge of Eumundi Police Station. With 38 applicants vying for the position, it’s evident that Eumundi is a great place to work as a police officer. My appointment ensures we have a full complement of staff at Eumundi Police Station, providing much needed stability for the community of Eumundi and its surrounding areas.

As for policing over the last month, I mentioned in my last Police Beat article a serious crash on Eumundi Kenilworth Rd. We have been keeping in touch with the partner of the driver involved, and despite sustaining serious injuries she is ok. We wish her the best in her recovery. I attended the scene of the crash, and it was pleasing to see members of the public who stopped to help for someone that they didn’t know.

This month marks the conclusion of a 3-month traffic operation funded by the Qld Government, which provided Eumundi Station with an additional 30 extra hours for traffic enforcement. The funding enabled us to conduct over 800 roadside breath tests, 5 roadside drug tests and numerous hours of mobile traffic enforcement.

As a result, we identified 5 drink drivers, 1 drugdriver and issued 20 infringement notices, primarily for speeding. While these results are encouraging, 1 drink or drug driver is too many.

We have also noticed an increase in the use of illegal e-bikes, particularly in the Eumundi township and occasionally on Bunya Rd. While these bikes may seem enjoyable and the young riders appear skilled, it's important to note that these e-bikes are classified as motorbikes and are illegal. Road sense is something even adults struggle with, and it only takes one incident to have a long-lasting impact on many lives. Personally, I would find it difficult to cope if I were involved in an incident where a young person was hurt.

From a police perspective, it is frustrating seeing these bikes getting around on the roads, as they rarely stop for police and identifying the riders is nearly impossible as they don’t have registration plates, and the riders are usually covered up. Parents need to take some responsibility, as they are permitting their children to ride unlicensed and unregistered vehicles. To assist us in tracking down these youths, any information regarding their residence or even the street they live on would be a great starting point. You can forward this information to me via email or by calling the station. Alternatively, if you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crimestoppers on 1800 333 000.

As always, stay safe, look after yourself and loved ones.

Sgt Nic Van Der Maat

– Officer in Charge Eumundi Police Station Vandermaat.Nicholasj@police.qld.gov.au