If you’re cruising around in a turbo diesel 4X4 with a straight pipe or oversized snorkel, this one’s for you. The NSW Government is stepping up its efforts to crack down on excessive noise with the introduction of “hoon-catching” noise cameras. These high-tech devices, equipped with microphones and cameras, are set to target those who love making a racket, whether it’s burnouts in the suburbs or just your run-of-the-mill noisy rig.
What’s the Deal with Noise Cameras?
The NSW Environment Protection Authority (EPA) has been preparing for months to roll out these noise cameras in areas like Wollongong and Sydney’s Bayside. By the end of the year, they’ll be trialling this system to see how effective it is at pinging noisy drivers. These cameras can detect noise levels and snap footage of offending vehicles, much like a speed or red-light camera. If your vehicle exceeds the legal decibel limit, you’re looking at a hefty fine.
What’s the Target?
While the focus of the original story might be on “hoon” behaviour, the reality for us in the 4X4 community is that these cameras are likely going to pick up on more than just performance cars and burnout enthusiasts. Straight-piped GQs, turbo-diesel Hiluxes with massive exhausts, and those running aftermarket mods to amplify their engine notes could easily be caught in the crossfire.
The legal limit in NSW is pretty strict: cars less than 20 years old can’t exceed 90 decibels, which is about as loud as your average hairdryer. For anyone running a big exhaust setup, that’s not hard to hit – and for P-platers with loud, souped-up Patrols, it could mean trouble.
How Will This Affect the 4X4 Community?
Now, before you rip off your straight pipes and swap your turbo for a quieter option, it’s worth noting that these noise cameras are still in the trial phase. They’ll initially be used in limited areas, and there are still questions about how accurately they can pinpoint noise from individual vehicles. After all, places like Singapore abandoned their noise camera plans because of issues with reliability, especially in high-traffic areas where it’s tough to single out the loudest offender.
That said, if you’re regularly driving in a high-risk area or running a particularly loud setup, it might be worth considering how visible you are. Noise aside, it’s a reminder to make sure all your mods are compliant – especially for younger drivers who might already be getting a bit of attention on the roads.
Are These Cameras Here to Stay?
While the effectiveness of noise cameras is yet to be proven, the fact that over 25,000 people have already suggested camera locations shows that there’s public support for the idea. So, if the trial is deemed successful, we could see these noise traps becoming a more permanent fixture, especially in areas where modified vehicles (yes, even 4X4s) are common.
For those of us with big turbo diesels, aftermarket exhausts, and that beautiful low-end rumble that comes with it, it’s something to keep an eye on. Whether you’re a P-plater in a Patrol or an experienced overlander in a decked-out Cruiser, these new cameras might add another layer of scrutiny to your build.
What’s Next?
As always, we’ll be keeping a close eye on how this develops. For now, it’s probably a good idea to check your decibel levels and make sure you’re not drawing too much attention from the EPA. If you’ve been looking for an excuse to upgrade your exhaust to something a little quieter, this might just be it.
While these noise cameras might start out focusing on “hoons,” there’s no telling how far the net will spread. If you’re running a loud setup, keep your ears open and maybe avoid those areas under trial for a while. No one wants to be the first 4X4 driver slapped with a noise fine!
