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School children rewarded for safe cycling

As part of Safe Cyle Month, Victoria Police presented safety information and prizes for safe riding to children on the Newhaven Riding School Bus.

By Bass Coast Shire Council - 7th October 2005 - Back to News

The presentation by Senior Constable Gary Slink of Victoria Police, took place on 5 October at Newhaven Primary School.

The Newhaven Riding School Bus

The Newhaven Riding School Bus is part of Bass Coast Shire Council’s Walking School Bus^TM Program that provides a safe and healthy alternative to daily car trips to school.

15 children and six volunteers were recognised for their participation in The Newhaven Riding School Bus.

"The Newhaven Riding School Bus has been really successful," said Senior Constable Slink. "We encourage other schools to look at taking up a similar program."

Adult volunteers involved in The Riding School Bus program receive road safety training and the group follows all safety rules including wearing bright vests for increased visibility. Council is keen to expand the Walking School Bus^TM Program to other schools and is supported in this by Victoria Police and Road Safe South Gippsland, of which Senior Constable Slink is also a representative.

As well as the awards presented to the school children, the volunteers from Newhaven Riding School Bus were presented with a battery operated reflective wrist -band that flashes at night.

"Volunteers are a very important part of initiatives like this," explained Senior Constable Slink. "We wanted to show our appreciation."

Safe Cycle Month – October 2005

October is Safe Cycle Month, an annual Victoria Police road safety initiative in its 22nd year.

During Safe Cycle Month the Police will be pulling over children who are riding responsibly and rewarding them with prizes such as stickers.

"We are trying to encourage children to do the right thing, and to keep safe," said Senior Constable Slink.

The children then go into a draw to win major prizes like mountain bikes and cycling gear.

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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