This Rail Safety Week (9 – 15 August) all Canberrans are reminded to pay attention to their surroundings on the light rail corridor.
Today marks the start of Rail Safety Week, an annual initiative reminding the community to look out for their own safety and that of others around light rail.
"Light rail has been incredibly successful with more people choosing to use public transport because of the frequent, comfortable and reliable services. This week is an opportunity for us all to remember that safety around light rail is everyone's responsibility, and we can all do our bit to reduce the risk of someone getting hurt,' said Minister for Transport and City Services Chris Steel.
"Today I am also pleased to unveil the latest light rail safety wrap which has been designed by local student Ada Miller through Canberra Metro's recent rail safety poster competition.
"Ada's 'Don't rush or be crushed' campaign was the winning entry among a range of clever design submitted by Gungahlin College graphic design students.
"I want to thank all the students who participated and acknowledge the exceptional work they have done in developing artwork that speaks to all public transport users, pedestrians and motorists about the importance of rail safety.
"It is important that we all take steps to be safe. A member of the public is killed or injured on the Australian rail network every 2.5 days.
"While we have been fortunate in the ACT with only a couple of incidents, they can happen easily. You can reduce your risk by simply paying attention to your surroundings.
"This means staying behind the yellow line at the light rail stop, stopping to look both ways before you cross, and paying attention around the tracks and stops.
An online campaign has commenced today and will feature the latest instalment of near miss footage on Canberra's light rail system. This provides a strong reminder that these rail safety messages remain relevant all year round.
Rail Safety Week is an annual community awareness week held in Australia and New Zealand designed to engage the community in safe rail practices. Now in its 14th year, this TrackSAFE initiative aims to create a heightened awareness of the importance of rail safety.
