This petition is deeply personal. Yesterday, a life filled with untapped potential was tragically cut short. A 3-year-old girl was fatally struck by a car near the intersection of James Cook Dr and Heatherton Rd in Endeavour Hills. The crossing's dangerous design, characterized by a hazardous slope and the common need for foot traffic, contributed to the horrible accident. That girl could have been anyone’s daughter, sister or grandchild and her loss is profoundly felt by her family and our community.

This is not just an isolated incident - pedestrian fatalities due to traffic accidents are alarmingly common. The Transport Accident Commission of Victoria reported 211 pedestrian fatalities between 2016 and 2020 (source: TAC, Victoria). It is therefore critical that immediate action be taken to ensure safety and prevent future casualties in our community.

We are thus calling upon local government officials and relevant authorities to construct an overhead bridge at the intersection of James Cook Dr and Heatherton Rd. Such a preventive measure is not an option, but a dire need. An overhead bridge would undoubtedly increase pedestrian safety by avoiding the crux of the problem: the direct interaction of pedestrians and vehicles.

Life is precious and should be protected staunchly. Help us protect our community and prevent the loss of more lives. We owe it to the memory of the young girl, and to the safety of our children, to make this significant change. Please show your support by signing this petition.