The October long weekend means an opportunity to put your feet up, however there are plenty of things to keep Highlanders busy.
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With grand finals in the NRL and AFL, the start of school holidays and several major community events, it can be a busy time for many.
It is not surprising the long weekend is a time that is looked forward to by many people.
A Food and Wine Festival in Bowral and the continuation of various other Tulip Time activities, the Rugby 7s at Eridge Park and Music in the Vines at Joadja Estate are some events that quickly spring to mind.
And if we are very lucky the entire extended weekend will be shrouded in warm weather so that we can enjoy the many activities on offer in the great outdoors.
Whether we choose to enjoy the many offerings in our Highlands backyard, travel to a grand final or even a school holiday destination, there is one message that should be adhered to by all – stay safe.
It may seem like an ominous warning, but really it is a simple message to remind everyone who is out and about to take care, especially when they are travelling.
There is no doubt there are plenty of great things to see and do, but sometimes as we rush to our destinations or strive to cram more into a long weekend we can tend to take risks and forget the little things.
Even worse there are often many others out and about doing the same.
It is also a time when many people let down their guard and enjoy a few more drinks than they normally would.
It can be a recipe for disaster.
It is not surprising that our boys and girls in blue increase their profile during this period.
Furthermore there are increased penalties for breaking the road rules during long weekends and holiday periods with double demerits deducted from a licence for traffic offences.
The double demerit points approach was first introduced in 1997.
The scheme is designed to encourage safe and responsible driving.
Working in conjunction with financial penalties, demerit points provide a strong incentive to drive within the law.
But the greatest deterrent to breaking the rules should always be the need to ensure safety for all.
Everyone can enjoy a long-weekend or an action-packed holiday, but the best outcome is to live to see another day.
So stay safe on the roads and whatever else you do this October long-weekend.
