POLICE units from the Southern Grampians and Glenelg shires were out in force over the long weekend, targeting dangerous and impaired drivers as part of Operation Compass.

The state-wide road safety operation ran from April 14 - 18 and saw police focus on speeding, drug and drink driving, fatigue, and dangerous behaviour such as mobile phone use.

A Hamilton Police officer said a few drink drivers had been caught by local police since the operation began on Thursday.

“Police are very disappointed that people are still continuing to drink and drive,” they said.

“Hopefully we catch those people doing the wrong thing.”

The officer said two males in their mid-20’s who had been visiting the area were caught drink driving around 3am on Saturday morning, after they spent Friday night drinking alcohol at a local hotel.

“Both will lose their licence – one for six months and one for 12 months,” the officer said.

Throughout the operation, police officers across the state were supported by specialist resources including Highway Patrol units, and Heavy Vehicle units.

The operation had a strong focus on drivers heading towards holiday hot spots and those on regional highways.

Last year Operation Compass detected 3956 speeding offences, 297 drink drivers, 273 drug drivers, 346 drivers using their mobile phone, and 222 disqualified or suspended drivers across the state over the Easter long weekend.

In addition to the police operation, the Transport Accident Commission (TAC) ran their ’Pause Stops’ campaign, which encouraged motorists to take a break when travelling on major regional roads.

Fatigue continues to be a major issue on Victoria’s roads, contributing to about 20 per cent of all fatalities.

The TAC also recently launched their new social media campaign addressing the number of Victorians dying on the roads due to simple errors and complacency, which are both common risks during busy periods with people traveling longer distances.

Operation Compass will return from April 23 - 25 for the Anzac Day long weekend to help keep locals safe.