URGENT UPDATE: South-West Victoria is facing a devastating surge in road fatalities, with 18 deaths recorded this year—the highest figure in recent years. The latest tragedy involved a man in his 60s who collided with a B-double truck on the Glenelg Highway on December 16, 2025, underscoring the critical need for immediate action.
Authorities confirm that speeding, fatigue, distraction, and impaired driving remain the leading causes of serious injuries and fatalities on local roads. Senior Sergeant Kelli Parkinson, the road safety manager for South-West Police, emphasizes the urgent need for drivers to comply with speed limits and adjust their driving to match road conditions.
“This year, 285 people have tragically lost their lives on Victorian roads, with 94 fatalities occurring in our local area,” said Parkinson. “We are currently two fatalities ahead of last year, and we cannot afford to see this trend continue.”
To combat this alarming increase, Operation Roadwise commenced at midnight on December 17 and will run until January 1, 2026. This operation features a heightened police presence focused on curbing speed and impaired driving. Over 8,000 breath tests have already been conducted, and authorities warn that random testing will be implemented at any time and any location.
Motorists throughout the region should anticipate visible checkpoints and increased patrols. “We’ve been disappointed by the number of drivers caught exceeding speed limits,” Parkinson noted. “Speed endangers everyone on the road.”
The fatal collisions this year have highlighted the urgent need for change. Among the incidents, a tragic single-vehicle crash on January 9 claimed the life of 18-year-old Mather Bell, while a collision on January 10 resulted in the death of a 42-year-old Caramut man after a van and sedan collided and caught fire.
As the holiday season approaches, the road safety adviser urges all drivers to remain vigilant. “No one wakes up thinking they’ll be a statistic, but the reality is stark and alarming,” she stated.
The rising toll has prompted calls for community awareness and proactive measures. The focus remains on reducing distractions and enforcing road safety regulations effectively.
In conclusion, as South-West Victoria grapples with its highest road toll in years, the police force is calling for immediate action from all road users. Residents are encouraged to share this information widely to promote safer driving practices and prevent further tragedies.
Stay tuned for continuous updates on this developing story as authorities work diligently to ensure road safety during this critical period.
