Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has joined forced with parents, teachers, and students to call for urgent action at the dangerous Bargara-Hughes Rd intersection.
Mr Bennett said the time for action is now with witnesses reporting ‘near misses’ every week.
“The reality is, if we don’t see this intersection upgraded soon, a child could be seriously injured or worse,” he said.
“Our children’s safety should be everyone’s top priority but sadly this doesn’t seem to be the case or this State Labor Government.
“The response to last year’s petition was disappointing to say the least with the Transport Minister stating:
As current pedestrian crossing volumes at this location are not high, and considered in conjunction with the low crash history at this site… the Queensland Government is unable to provide funding for further measures at this location at this time.
“Despite numerous reports of near misses involving children and several crashes through the pedestrian refuge island, the intersection is still not a high priority for this lazy state government.
“We can’t afford to see another tragedy on our roads, we can’t put children’s lives at risk, we need action today.”
Concerned parent Kiralee Honour said there have been far too many close calls.
“It’s much too dangerous for young children to cross by themselves, this is this is children’s life’s we are talking about,” she said.
“The State Government wants to promote healthy lifestyles for children, but through letting your children ride to school, you’re allowing them to cross a busy road with no lolly pop person or lights.
“How is that ‘healthy’?”
Member for Burnett Stephen Bennett has again written to Minister Bailey requesting an urgent assessment and upgrade at the Bargara-Hughes Rd intersection before a child is hurt. He is yet to receive a response.
ENDS.
10/02/21