Riverina Police prepare for re-opened borders as two men from Sydney die in seperate accidents on region's roads

Emergency services were called to a crash on the Snowy Mountains Highway about 1.50pm on Thursday, where a 61-year-old motorcyclist had collided with a steel barrier and lost his life.

Later that day at about 8.30pm, a 45-year-old truck driver was involved in a collision on Holbrook Road at Mangoplah and also died, despite the best efforts of passers-by and first responders.

Acting Inspector Brett Collins said both of the men are believed to be from Sydney and it is not currently known what they were doing in the Riverina.

"Investigations into the circumstances of the crashes and what led them to be here is still under investigation and reports for both matters are being prepared for the coroner," he said.

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The deaths bring the Riverina road toll to 17 for the year and Inspector Collins plead for the community to be as safe as possible when behind the wheel.

"Devastating is an understatement," he said.

"It's been devastating for the local community, for families of the people that have lost their lives and their friends as well.

"We would plead with members of the community and visiting road users to please drive to the prevailing road conditions."

With border restrictions loosening, police are anticipating an influx of drivers from out of town driving on Riverina roads which they said is a big concern.

"It is a big concern especially with the border with Victoria now becoming free-flowing," Inspector Collins said.

We're expecting an influx of visitors from Victoria into NSW especially into the southern part of the state and again we would urge them to drive to the conditions."

Nine people lost their lives on NSW roads this week, bringing the state's total road toll for the year to 236.

NSW Highway Patrol Acting Superintendent Ben Macfarlane said police were deeply saddened by the latest wave of deaths.

"There are families, friends and communities grieving right now for loved ones lost on NSW roads this week - our hearts go out to them," he said.

"Please think of others on the road by driving safely. There is no excuse for behaviour that endangers lives, and those ignoring road safety messages and disobeying road rules can expect swift police action."

"With a wet weekend forecast in some areas, we're also continuing to urge motorists to slow down, be patient, plan ahead, drive to the conditions and keep your eyes on the road."

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