By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
GEELONG’S highest-grossing red light camera is slugging motorists $400,000 every three months, according to latest figures.
The Justice Department figures show fines from the camera at the intersection of The Boulevard and Princes Hwy, Norlane, rose to $408,246 for the September quarter.
The take was up almost $17,000 on the previous quarter as 1128 motorists were hit with a $361 fine and loss of three demerit points.
The intersection collected $391,496 in the January-March quarter and $353,234 in October-December.
Twelve months ago the intersection collected $67,726.
The Independent reported in September the annual penalty take from the intersection – where a new Bunnings store recently opened – rose to $1.2 million from 2011/2012 when the site raised $177,805.
A spokesperson for the Victorian Road Safety Commissioner said the intersection “had come to our attention”.
“We’ve had a look at it and the intersection and lights do conform to VicRoads guidelines. The yellow light is three seconds, standard for all turning lanes across Victoria.”
The spokesman said drivers were still adjusting to the introduction of the controlled right-hand turn from The Boulevard into Princes Hwy.
“Drivers are not yet getting used to the red arrow. It normally settles down after six to 12 months.”
Former Australia Post driver John Cameron said the change from amber to red reminded him of faulty traffic lights at the intersection of Fyans and Moorabool Sts.
Mr Cameron was appealing a penalty from falling victim to the quick change from amber to red, he said.
“It just doesn’t give you enough time to make up your mind to pull up or stop, it’s a very quick change. Only one or two cars can get through at a time.
“I’d like to see the specifications on the timing. It should be checked for accuracy by VicRoads.
“Faulty amber light timing puts the accuracy of red light camera fines in doubt and undermines the use of red light cameras.
“It takes the focus away from what’s really important and that’s about people not driving through red lights and people not speeding.”
