Victorian police launched Operation Muffler this month to crack down on noisy motorcycle and car mufflers after complaints from the public.
The operation began on January 15 and will continue “for the foreseeable future”, says a Victoria Police media spokeswoman.
“Operation Muffler was formulated in response to community feedback to the Police and the EPA regarding noisy vehicles travelling up and down the beach foreshore area during the warmer months,” she says.
“Complaints were made to Police, Council and the EPA which has formed the basis for the operation.
“In terms of area these complaints come from residents in St Kilda all the way to Port Melbourne but it is all focussed on the beach foreshore area.
“The operation is to assess the issue and take action where offences and non-compliance is detected. We need to look at the complaints in totality as there could also be environmental issues that are a causation factor such as the wide open space or tall buildings reflecting noise.”
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All noisy mufflers targeted
She admitted most of the complaints we receive relate to motorcycles, but says the operation is levelled at all vehicles.
“We will assess motorcycles and cars, especially those that appear to be modified for compliance,” she says.
“This operation is certainly not a ‘witch hunt’ focussing on motorcycles. It is all-encompassing to assess the extent of the issue and the factors involved. We are working very closely with the EPA on this issue to find a solution that all stakeholders are happy with.”
The first operation was hampered by poor weather but 25 vehicles were issued with notices from the EPA and these were all cars.
THe operation involves road blocks along the foreshore area at specific intervals with suspected non-compliant vehicles waved in and tested by the EPA.
The Vicpol spokeswoman said motorists could also be fined for other issues such as unlicensed driving/riding, and unregistered and unroadworthy vehicles.
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