Proud parents from right across the North West region responded to our call for photos of their little ones heading off to school, posting portrait shots of their children with fresh uniforms, beaming smiles and bulging backpacks. 

Have a look at our back-to-school photo gallery, courtesy of proud Mount Isa, Cloncurry, Boulia, and Normanton parents.

Motorists are being urged to take extra care in school zones as students return to class this week.

Police Minister Mark Ryan and Assistant Commissioner Mike Keating today warned that school zones across the state were now fully operational with speed limits reduced during designated drop-off and pick-up times.

Mr Ryan said reduced speed limits are essential for road safety in school zones where children are particularly vulnerable.

“The first day starting or returning to school is an exciting one for hundreds of thousands of Queensland children and we want it to remain a happy day for everyone,” he said.

“So please take extra care, slow down and be on the lookout for children as they travel to and from school, whether on foot, riding on a bike, in a car or using public transport.

“Be aware of the placement of schools in the areas you travel through so you know when school zones are approaching and keep an eye on the clock in your car.”

Police issued 17,110 speeding infringements in Queensland school zones from the beginning of 2017 to September 30 last year and extra police will be out enforcing those speed limits again this year.

More information can be found here: www.tmr.qld.gov.au/Safety/School-road-safety/Safe-school-travel-safest/School-zones-road-safety-initiatives.aspx

The ‘Back to School’ week is the final phase of QPS’ 50-day Christmas Road Safety Campaign which concludes at midnight on Friday.