Mitchell Shire Council has wrapped up a successful primary school children's road safety education campaign, delivered in partnership with the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation and Victoria Police.
Interactive sessions were held at seven primary schools across the Shire on Monday 11 and Tuesday 12 November, helping students in high-risk age groups build awareness and confidence around road safety.
The program, which reached approximately 1000 students, comes in response to growing concerns about near misses and safety incidents near schools, particularly during busy drop-off and pick-up times.
Through engaging discussions and practical activities, students learned how to make safer choices in and around school zones.
'Hold My Hand' signs, pamphlets and educational posters were given to schools to help educate children and parents that a child's brain, eyesight, and hearing are still developing. It is important for them to hold hands with an adult while around roads, driveways, and carparks.
'Slow Down Kids Around' stickers were also presented to schools so they can be placed in areas with high numbers of child pedestrians.
Council is also continuing to install colourful footpath stickers at high-risk crossing points across the Shire. The bright, eye-catching stickers serve as friendly reminders to take extra care when crossing the road.
The stickers encourage pedestrians to:
- Stop: Pause and ensure it's safe to cross
- Look: Check carefully in both directions for traffic
- Listen: Be alert and listen for approaching vehicles
Council is also reminding drivers to slow down and stay alert near school crossings to help keep children, families and crossing supervisors safe.
Children can be unpredictable and are still learning the road rules, so it's vital that motorists remain cautious.
Key tips for drivers:
- Stick to the 40km/h speed limit in school zones
- Never use your mobile phone while driving
- Always follow instructions from crossing supervisors
- Allow extra time so you're not rushing
- Consider parking a few streets away and walking
With dozens of crossings operating across the Shire each school day, Council thanks all road users, schools and partners for helping to keep our youngest residents safe.
