Every morning, I worry about my son’s safety as he cycles to Primary School in Dunsborough. Before Christmas, he had a near-miss at the main crossing on Caves Road and every day he faces the ongoing challenge of navigating multiple roundabouts, busy street crossings and parked cars along the route. I’m not alone many families in Dunsborough share these concerns and worry about the safety of their children.

In the thriving community of Dunsborough, there are many kids eager to ride to school from the Dunsborough Lakes district. However, their journey is fraught with dangers posed by inadequate pedestrian crossings and lack of safe walking and cycling routes. Caves Road, a major thoroughfare, is particularly hazardous during school hours due to heavy traffic and limited visibility at the main crossing and surrounding roundabouts. Furthermore, the prevalent street parking and numerous roundabouts exacerbate these risks.

Statistics from 'Road Safety Australia' indicate that pedestrian injuries make up a significant percentage of road traffic accidents in urban areas, underscoring the pressing need to enhance safe passages for our children. The benefits of encouraging cycling or walking to school are numerous, ranging from reduced traffic congestion, lower emissions and most importantly, promoting healthy lifestyles among our youth.

To address these concerns, I propose a thorough overhaul of pedestrian crossings along Caves Road. Implementing controlled crossings such as zebra crossings or traffic lights dedicated to pedestrian movements could greatly improve safety. Additionally, we need clear and safe cycling and walking paths, separate from vehicular traffic, starting from Dunsborough Lakes to the main schools in town. Effective signage, better lighting and curb extensions will make these routes visibly safer and more child-friendly.

By promptly addressing these critical infrastructural inadequacies, we can ensure a safer environment for our children. Let's come together as a community and urge the local authorities to prioritise these changes. As parents and community members, it is our responsibility to stand up for the safety and well-being of our children.

Please sign this petition to demand urgent improvements to pedestrian crossings and the creation of dedicated, safe walking and cycling routes for our children in Dunsborough.