General News
31 January, 2025
School zones back in force
School crossing supervisor Robyn Tracey warns drivers to slow down for kids like Madden Rumpff, Xavier Lendon, and Ella Buckmaster with the return of school this week.
The community is warned to be vigilant with the return of school speed zones for another year.
Drivers are reminded that reduced speed limits will return during school drop-off and pick-up times alongside the return of school.
Robyn Tracey, school crossing supervisor in Carisbrook, is entering her 45th year in the job and emphasises that drivers need to slow down.
“The 40 lights will be on today, they should just be slowing down and paying attention. Not on their mobile phones, not talking, but just paying attention,” she said.
RACV general manager mobility Julia Hunter warns drivers children are less visible and struggle to judge time, speed and distance.
“Consider walking or riding with your children to school while demonstrating safe behaviours. This includes using children’s crossings or zebra crossings, meeting children on the same side of the road, and being bicycle safe,” she said.
According to data from the Transport Accident Commission, 32 children between 5 and 15 years old have died on rural Victorian roads between 2014 and 2024 with most occurring during peak school commute times.
Even Ms Tracey was previously hit by a car, injuring her leg.
Sarah Sexton, CEO of Kidsafe Victoria warns the reduced speed limits are there due to the unpredictability of school zones.
“School zones are busy places, with children crossing roads, getting out of cars and sometimes rushing in their excitement to get to class,” she said.
“We urge drivers to slow down, stay vigilant and be prepared for the unexpected.”
Time-based school speed zones are usually between 8 am to 9.30 am and 2.30 pm to 4 pm on weekdays (excluding public holidays). Drivers are encouraged to read the signs. Some school speed zones are in effect 24/7.