One Aussie state is hoping to catch out motorists doing the wrong thing with some “cleverly disguised” devices that could cost you big time.

Queensland has come up with a new plan to catch speeding drivers “anytime, anywhere” with the help of new speed cameras that look nothing like the traditional models we’re all used to. In fact, the sneaky new devices resemble heavy machinery, with one Australian driver claiming they are “cleverly disguised as a solar powered earth mover”.

According to Transport and Main Roads Queensland, the new portable speed cameras will be rolled out “at school zones and high-risk roadworks sites across the state over the coming months” starting from September 9 as part of a road safety pilot, with drivers urged to “keep an eye out”.

The pilot will run until the end of April 2024 and will involve the use of portable hi-tech speed cameras attached to powered road signs.

The cameras will monitor and detect drivers exceeding the speed limit and fines and demerit points may apply to motorists detected speeding.

“Speeding’s one of the leading causes of fatalities and serious injuries on our roads – representing almost 30 per cent of road fatalities last year,” the department said on a Facebook post announcing the change.

“As part of our new Roadways Behaviour Monitoring System, we’ve partnered with Queensland Police Service (QPS) to roll out these cameras designed to kerb speeding and catch drivers exceeding the designated limit.

“The in-built speed camera devices will be attached to signage and the locations of cameras will be signed — but you should expect to find them anytime, anywhere.

“Obviously that won’t worry you if you drive within the speed limit, which is the best way to look after vulnerable road users and your own driving record.”

In 2021, 277 lives were lost on Queensland roads and a further 6595 people were seriously injured in road crashes.

Of those fatalities, 74 people died as a result of road crashes involving speeding motorists – which is almost 26 per cent of road deaths.

However, the announcement was met with a mixed reaction.

“Hopefully this might smarten the attitude up of some of those motorist, great idea,” one Facebook user said.

“Definitely will be beneficial at school zones, fantastic!!” another posted.

But others were more critical, with one posting that “Brisbane must need funding for another tunnel”.

“Isn’t it ironic they look like ATM machines?” another wrote, while another added that it “would be nice if you left it as an excavator and fixed dangerous roads me thinks”.

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