But the image seen by many has become the cause of some consternation among local police officers who feel it was reminiscent of a car race.

Some say it sends a message that the new highway was one long drag strip.

After all the work that has gone into ensuring the safety of the new road, some say it was disappointing to have the opening marred by what they feel was an irresponsible representation of the culmination of more than three years’ hard work.

The new highway does have some very long, very straight stretches.

But it is not a race track.

Touted as one of its’ major drawcards was the fact that the highway would reduce the volume of traffic around notorious blackspots on Old Coast Road and South Western Highway.

To have it turn into the site of a street racing free-for-all would be more than disappointing.

It would be disastrous.

People need to take care regardless of what road they are travelling on.

And in the case of a new road, drivers need to be especially cautious.

There is never any excuse for reckless driving and no road is immune from police attention.

Drivers on the Forrest Highway need to be aware that the same rules apply for that stretch of road as apply anywhere.

The new highway is a wonderful piece of infrastructure and is likely to open up the South West to thousands of tourists every year.

What a shame it would be to see it reduced to little more than a hoon playground.