Recently announced a huge boost in protecting children around schools in Myall Lakes with most now having a set of flashing lights.

MP Stephen Bromhead said that our children are some of our most vulnerable road users.

“We know that flashing lights slow down motorists around schools, and I am very pleased that almost every school in Myall Lakes has received, or is about to receive a set of flashing lights to warn motorists,” Mr Bromhead said.

“Over the next two weeks crews will be working hard in our local area delivering flashing lights to six public or primary schools.

“Roads and Maritime Services has worked with schools to ensure the flashing lights are installed in the most appropriate locations.

“The lights operate automatically when school zone speed limits are in force and increase motorists’ awareness of school zones. The lights use LED (light-emitting diode) technology which provides brighter light and is more energy efficient.”

The schools to receive the flashing lights are:

• Pacific Palms Public School
• Nabiac Public School
• Forster Public School
• Holy Name Primary School
• Tuncurry Public School
• Bulahdelah Central School

Mr Bromhead said flashing lights are one component of the NSW Government’s school road safety program.

“Other measures include marked foot crossings, dragon’s teeth markings, traffic lights, pedestrian refuges and an extensive school road safety education program,” Mr Bromhead said.

“We are getting on with the job of installing school zone flashing lights at nearly three times the rate of former Labor Government.

“In the Greater Taree area, ten schools including Taree, Manning Gardens, Taree West and Wingham Brush Public Schools have already had flashing lights installed.

“I am working to ensure that all remaining schools in Myall Lakes will have their flashing lights installed as soon as possible.

“In June, the NSW Government announced a record spend in road safety, which included an extra $2 million this financial year as part of our $10 million package, to boost safety around schools.

“It’s all part of our commitment to put a safety cone around our schools and improve school road safety in every way.”

Flashing lights remind motorists of the 40km/h speed limit, which applies from 8 am to 9.30 am and 2.30 pm to 4 pm on gazetted school days.

More information about the flashing lights program is available at: roadsafety.transport.nsw.gov.au