For years Port Macquarie residents have complained to council about the safety risks of the pedestrian crossing on Hastings River Drive, at Dixie Park. Council has been warned that the crossing is poorly lit, poorly sign posted, and dangerous, with vehicles failing to stop on a regular basis when pedestrians are crossing the road. Council were warned that fatalities were likely to occur if they did not improve the safety of the crossing.

Unfortunately, on 12 April 2023, such a fatality occurred, with a pedestrian hit by a vehicle when the driver failed to stop. The pedestrian, Reverend David Curtis, was a Port Macquarie local, a retired Anglican clergyman, who dedicated his life in service to others, and was beloved by many. His wife, family, church and community are left in shock and grief at such a senseless, preventable death.

We are petitioning Port Macquarie-Hastings Council to take action to make this crossing safe, by adding pedestrian traffic lights, an overpass or at least a speed hump to make drivers slow down.

Please do not wait for another fatality, possibly a child, before you act.