Flashing signs welcomed by Coen State School

Cape York’s Coen State School community has welcomed the installation of flashing school zone signs, reminding motorists to slow down and look out for children.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said the safety of Queensland children on their way to and from schools was a high priority, regardless of whether they lived in urban, regional or remote locations.

“We want children to be safe when they walk, cycle or ride scooters to school and it’s great to see Coen State School now has flashing signs to alert motorists to their presence,” Mr Bailey said.

“The Palaszczuk Government committed about $12 million in the 2015 budget for the installation of flashing school zone signs at an additional 300 school zones over three years.

“Not only does the flashing sign improve the visibility of the school zone, it also alerts and reminds drivers they need to slow down.”

Acting Sergeant Derek Hicks, Acting Officer in Charge of the Coen Police, said the addition of the signs had already seen a dramatic drop in the speeds of motorists.

“Usually during our school zone patrols at least two motorists would be detected speeding during the operational period,” Acting Sergeant Hicks said.

“There has not been a single speeding detection since the signs were installed which is a great result.

“With the volume of traffic increasing yearly, we must do everything we can to keep our kids safe.”

Mr Bailey said the flashing school zone sign program had been a resounding success. 

“More than 650 school zones across Queensland have flashing signs,” he said.

“Students, particularly those in younger grades, can be preoccupied and unpredictable around roads and cars.

“While we expect parents to closely supervise their children walking, cycling or scootering to and from school, we expect drivers to be alert, slow down and stick to the 40km/h speed limit in school zones.

“The signs only flash during school zone times and only on school days, so drivers will always be alerted to when kids are out and about.”

ENDS

Media contact:            Amy Hunter – 0423 651 484