Townsville's magistrates have come down hard on two local drink drivers in a clear message about the consequences of getting behind the wheel while intoxicated.
Jason Luke Grove, 41, found himself in serious trouble after police detected him driving with a staggering blood alcohol reading of 0.193% - nearly four times the legal limit. The offence occurred on September 29 last year along Ross River Road in the suburb of Aitkenvale.
Magistrate Steven Mosch did not mince words during sentencing, labelling Grove's actions as particularly concerning given his prior drink-driving history. The court heard this wasn't Grove's first encounter with drink-driving laws.
In a separate case that same day, Dylan John Hellman, 28, also faced the music after being caught driving under the influence along Dalrymple Road in Garbutt. His blood alcohol reading registered at 0.131%, more than double the legal threshold.
Both men received substantial financial penalties that reflect the serious nature of their offences. Grove was fined $1,200 and disqualified from holding a driver's licence for seven months. Hellman received a $750 fine along with a six-month licence suspension.
The magistrate emphasised that such high readings demonstrate a complete disregard for public safety and the law. These cases serve as a sobering reminder to all North Queensland drivers about the severe consequences of drink-driving.
With Queensland's strict drink-driving laws and heightened police presence on regional roads, authorities continue to crack down on those who risk lives by driving under the influence.
