Operation Over The Hill was held at Ravenswood with police, the sheriff’s office, DPI, EPA, VicRoads and WorkSafe targeting 3500 cars and trucks on the Calder Highway.

The sheriff’s office handed out 452 warrants totalling $96,000 in fines.

More than $8000 in fines were paid on the spot by motorists who could drive away only if the fine was paid.

Castlemaine police said one motorist had a wheel clamped because he had more than $5000 in outstanding fines and could not pay them.

Senior Constable Grant Healey said police conducted 2510 breath tests with no positive readings.

“It was great to have no drink-drivers.

“It was certainly a very good day for the sheriff’s office.

“Heavy vehicles seem to be an issue with drivers exceeding fatigue management. They’re the ones we really want off the road because it would make it so much safer for everyone.”

Police issued 95 infringements for unroadworthy vehicles and 30 infringement notices ranging from unregistered vehicles to minor traffic offences.

They also issued three police briefs for driving while disqualified, 87 formal warnings, 23 drug tests and two warrants for failing to appear in court.

VicRoads issued 18 notices for unroadworthy trucks plus six briefs of evidence for truck matters including heavy loads.

They also issued two penalty notices.

The EPA issued 14 penalty notices for modifications to cars which didn’t comply with standards for cars and 16 notices for noise reduction.

The DPI spoke to 160 people of interest.

Senior Constable Healey said the operation, now in its fourth year, had been a success.

“The majority were minor offences,” he said.

“It’s a massive operation to put together and it’s a huge drain on police resources but when you get the results like today people are keen to see it continue.”