$50,000 noise cameras and $1,200 fines floated as latest effort to halt Yarra Boulevard hoons

Multiple $50,000 noise detection cameras are among new technologies proposed by Boroondara Council to crack down on hooning along Kew’s Yarra Boulevard.

Speeding and excessive vehicle noise have been a nuisance for residents and wildlife for more than 10 years in the region, with councillors hoping Yarra Boulevard would be used in a State Government trial.

🚗 A long journey: Since 2016, Boroondara Council has advocated to combat hooning along the six-kilometre stretch of road connecting Kew to Richmond, with steps achieved over the last 10 years including securing $7 million in federal funding.

🔊 Loud and proud: “Hooning” is a term referring to a range of reckless or dangerous driving offences, including driving at 45 kilometres or more above the speed or deliberately causing the car to skid, produce smoke or making excessive noise.

👂 Hear, hear: Earlier this year in April, the State Government announced a $1.3 million trial of seven roadside noise cameras at key hotspots across Victoria aimed to combat this reckless driving. However, the government has not yet released the list of where the temporary cameras would be installed.

• The noise cameras would take a photo of any vehicle exceeding a certain decibel limit, with offenders potentially facing fines of up to $1,221 for individuals and $6,105 for businesses.

🪧 Pushing for more: During Boroondara Council’s meeting on Monday May 25, councillors passed a motion to advocate to directly punish speeding drivers, including permanent speed cameras, an increased police presence and noise camera technology.

• Boroondara councillor Sophie Torney said she hoped Yarra Boulevard would be used in the noise camera trial and inform ongoing investment in enforcement action.

• 🗣️ “No single measure will fix this,” said Torney.