All traffic at school crossings in the Mitchell Shire will now be recorded by cameras in an initiative to keep local students, parents, crossing supervisors and all crossing users safe, the local Council has announced.
They cameras have been installed by Mitchell Shire Council, with support of the schools, in response to dangerous driver behaviour.
Reports of drivers speeding through school crossings, failing to stop, and abusing crossing supervisors have increased, putting school communities in danger, the Council said in a statement.
Cameras have been installed at selected crossings in the Shire, with more to come later this year, it said.
The cameras are mounted on posts each day by crossing supervisors using brackets made by the Broadford Men’s Shed.
“Council were concerned to hear multiple reports of dangerous driving around school crossings,” he said.
“Most drivers do the right thing, but these cameras will help to put a stop to behaviour that endangers parents, students and crossing supervisors,” said Councillor Bill Chisholm.
“I want to thank Council staff and crossing supervisors for their work in making this project possible and the Men’s Shed for their great work in making the mounting brackets and weather covers.”
Bespoke covers made especially for the project ensure a clear image of vehicle number plates in all weather conditions, he said.
If there is an incident, the footage will be downloaded from the camera and passed on to local police. Signage will also be installed to alert drivers to the cameras.
