2 February, 2023

School has started for 2023 and Gunnedah Shire Council is reminding drivers to help keep our kids safe on their way to and from school.

Gunnedah Shire Council Regulatory Services Coordinator Wade Berryman said there was no better time for motorists to review their driving habits than the start of the school year.

“The start of school can be frantic, with little ones navigating their first days and lots of new students at every school,” Mr Berryman said.

“Road safety is up to all of us. Motorists need to ensure they are driving with care, and always on the lookout for hazards.

“It’s very important to follow the road rules and signs, to park safely, to consider other drivers and pedestrians, and to know where the school zones and parking zones are.

“Children and parents need to feel safe at all times on their journey to and from school.”

Some tips for safe driving and parking when travelling to and from school:

• Always follow the road rules and signs
• Do not expect to park close to your school – drop-off and pick-up times are busy. You might need to park further away and walk your child to school
• Know where the school speed zones are and where parking is available around the school
• Remember not to:
  • Park across driveways;
  • Park within 3m of a double centre line;
  • Park on a path or nature strip;
  • Park within 10m of an intersection;
  • Stop at a no stopping or no parking area;
  • Park at a bus zone; or
  • Double park.

Fines for parking illegally can be as high as $481 and 2 demerit points.

Caption: With school back, it’s the ideal time for parents and carers to become familiar with where they can and can’t park.

ENDS

For more information, contact Gunnedah Shire Council’s Communications team on (02) 6740 2100.