This year, 274 baubles hang on a Christmas tree at police headquarters in Melbourne.
Each bauble represents a life lost on Victoria’s roads this year until Wednesday, December 6.
Victoria Police put up the Christmas tree each year to honour those who won’t be celebrating Christmas with their loved ones this year.
Many of those baubles represent Goulburn Valley residents.
Since New Year’s Eve, 40 people have died on our region’s roads.
All were within 50 minutes of Shepparton’s central business district.
This year’s tree marks the highest number of lives lost in 15 years.
There were 35 lives lost throughout the state in November alone, marking the worst month on our roads to date this year.
Victoria Police is appealing to motorists to take extra care on the roads over the festive period.
Police will conduct several road policing operations throughout December to reduce further road trauma.
Road Policing Assistant Commissioner Glenn Weir is urging people to take care on the roads for the remainder of the year.
“Unlike most Christmas trees, this is one we don’t want to see decorated,” he said.
“It’s a stark reminder of the importance of taking care on the roads.
“Our message is to please drive safely this festive period.
“I’m really appealing to everyone between now and the end of the year to take care. Have conversations with your loved ones as they’re going out on the roads.
“If you’re in a car, you’ve got a responsibility to make sure you get to your destination safely.
“We want every Victorian to remember Christmas this year for a good reason, not for one of tragedy.”