POLICE LABELLED INSENSITIVE OVER ACTIONS AT FAMILY FUNDRAISER

Patrick Williams 14th Jan 2013

Police were there in strength to oversee the family fundraising car show for Troy Kohncke who died in a car accident. The event was held at the Currimundi Hotel. Warren Lynam

POLICE have been branded "insensitive" after targeting motoring enthusiasts attending a fundraiser for the family of a 36-year-old man killed in a road crash.
Troy Kohncke became the Coast's first road fatality for the year when his motorcycle and a car collided in Mooloolaba last Saturday.
But when his mates held a motor show to help his widow and six children pay his funeral expenses, police turned out in force.
Vehicles on their way to the Currimundi Hotel venue were stopped on Buderim St.
Eight traffic infringement notices were issued, including three for vehicle defects.
Show organiser Daniel King said the event raised $17,000 but it would have been a lot more if police had not scared people away.
"They could have destroyed a day that helped a family regroup and rebuild," he said. "What they've done has affected the donations.
"There was no skidding, no hooning and no offensive behaviours. They had nothing to go after, so they thought they'd start with the defects.
"The police were unfairly targeting us, without a doubt."
Those who turned up to support Troy's family took to social media throughout the day to voice their anger at the fines issued.
"This is very low," wrote one.
"Disgraceful ... think they'd have some respect," said another.
 
A Queensland Police Service spokeswoman said police had contacted Mr King and discussed management of the function.
"Given the large number of people anticipated to attend the event, a police presence was in place to ensure effective traffic management both in terms of safety and effective traffic flows," she said.
Along with the three vehicle defect fines, there were also two for P-plate drivers caught driving high-powered vehicles, two failing to display P plates and one failing to wear a seat belt.
No drunk drivers were detected.
"The priority for police was ensuring the safety of all road users and anyone attending the event," the spokeswoman said.
"Police had no desire to prevent the event from proceeding and were pleased with how the event ran."
Mr King vowed to make the car show an annual event in Troy's honour.
"This is a legacy we're leaving for Troy and his family," he said.

http://www.sunshinecoastdaily.com.au/news/police-action-fundraiser-/1715731/