Every morning brings the same anxiety-inducing ritual for families in Wahroonga, New South Wales, as children make their way to school, crossing the signal at the intersection of Edgeworth David Avenue and Myra Street. This crossing, which should be a place of safety, instead poses a real threat due to the lack of oversight and protective measures. The sign at this crossing reads 'Give Way to Pedestrians,' yet this simple directive is not enough to ensure the safety of our children. Alarming incidents have occurred where vehicles, heedless of the sign, have endangered young pedestrians, leaving families feeling helpless and fearful.

My own children narrowly escaped being hit at this very crossing and that was the tipping point for me. Every family should feel their children are safe simply walking to school. Unfortunately, due to a lack of monitoring and clear signals at the Wahroonga Junction, the risk remains unacceptably high. The crossing currently has no camera surveillance to monitor vehicular compliance or help regulate traffic, creating a situation ripe for potential tragedy.

There is a glaring need for the Roads and Traffic Authority, with the collaboration of the local council, to implement effective and immediate solutions. We urge the installation of monitoring cameras at the crossing to enforce traffic laws and ensure drivers give absolute right of way to pedestrians. Additionally, more visible signage, illuminated crosswalk signals, and perhaps pedestrian-controlled signals could provide extra layers of protection against potential accidents.

The evidence is clear and the need urgent. Statistics from similar intersections across Australia demonstrate improved safety and reduced accidents when such measures are implemented. It is a simple yet profoundly impactful change that can safeguard our children and provide peace of mind to families as they start their day.

We call upon the Roads and Traffic Authority and the local council to take immediate action. Let us not wait for another close call or, worse, a tragedy. Join us in keeping our community's children safe. Sign this petition to demand the necessary enhancements at the Wahroonga Junction pedestrian crossing and protect our children before it's too late.