Extra eyes on hooning

RESIDENTS of Maleny are fed up with hoons taking to the street at night, with police receiving numerous complaints.

In response to a rising hoon problem, police are calling on the hinterland community to get involved in a crackdown to ensure the irresponsible culprits are caught.

It is likely major police operations will take place in the area over coming months to find those involved.

Sunshine Coast District Traffic Branch Senior Constable Darryl Campbell said it was time the community came on board to assist police with their hoon investigations.

"The local hoons have no respect for where they live," Const Campbell said.

"I would love for the locals to take some responsibility and take down any details they can.

"If we can get a registration number or the type of car, that's gold for us."

Constable Campbell said he would continue investigating until he ensured the safety and image of the community was maintained.

"I want the hoons to know they're being watched and it won't be tolerated," he said.

"Anyone could be watching them and taking down their details.

"If they want to drive like crazy, take it to the track where no one will get hurt."

Constable Campbell said the hooning problem in the area was becoming a shame for the residents who took pride in their town.

"I have no problem with car enthusiasts," he said.

"It's the ones who ruin their image by driving dangerously that I have a problem with, particularly in Maleny and Mapleton where the towns are quite tight knit.

"It's a shame there are a few people ruining it for them."

Police are targeting known hoon locations across the hinterland, and urging the community to provide information.

"In this day and age most people have mobile phones with video cameras, and I implore everyone to use them and get involved to help police," he said.

"It's better to have 10,000 eyes on the road than 20."

If anyone has any information, phone the hooning hotline on 134666, or their local police station.