Oxley police and highway patrol out in force for Easter Operation 2022, Tamworth Country Music Festival, Anzac Day

"We want families and friends to be together this holiday period, not torn apart," Peel Highway Patrol manager Inspector Kelly Wixx said.

"If you're doing the wrong thing, expect to be stopped."

Police will be targeting safety breaches like speeding, seatbelts, helmets and fatigue, as well as drunk, drug and distracted driving as part of the statewide Easter Operation 2022.

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"We don't want people to not enjoy the long weekends, we want people to enjoy spending time with family and friends ... but have a Plan B," Inspector Wixx told the Leader.

She said alcohol was sadly still a major factor in some of the most serious car crashes seen in the region.

Highway patrol police from outside the city will set up shop in Tamworth next week to boost the blue line as country music fans, school holiday-makers and long weekend travellers flood into town.

"We are expecting an influx of visitors not just from the coast but from across the border in Queensland, and Sydney, and even further beyond," Inspector Wixx said.

Police are prepared and will be patrolling main roads, country routes and local streets as part of the high visibility operation.

Officers will also be interacting with drivers at static roadside stops.

As an extra deterrent, double demerits will be enforced across the Easter long weekend, from first thing Thursday morning through to the end of Monday.

Double demerits will be in play again from right after midnight on April 22 to the end of April 25 for Anzac Day.

"We ask that you make good decisions and that you plan ahead - plan your rest stops and be patient and safe whilst out on the roads," Inspector Wixx said.

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