Buildings to light up in memory of lives lost on state's roads
Published | 4 May 2024
We're encouraging all Tasmanians to engage in conversations about road safety as the state prepares to host National Road Safety Week (NRSW).
NRSW will run from 5th – 12th May to raise awareness of road safety and encourage safe driving behaviours around the country.
Group Chief Executive Officer Mark Mugnaioni said key icons and landmarks, including MyState Bank Arena, Wrest Point and the Tasman Bridge would be lit yellow throughout NRSW in remembrance of the lives lost and people injured on Australia’s roads each year.
“We hope the yellow lights serve as a conversation starter and reminder of the profound impact of road trauma on individuals, families and communities,” Mr Mugnaioni said.
“Every year, approximately 1,200 people are killed and another 40,000 are seriously injured on Australian roads.
“Last year, Tasmania witnessed 35 deaths and 309 serious injuries due to road crashes and a large portion of these tragedies was due to distracted driving, speeding and driving under the influence of drugs and alcohol.”
Tasmania is hosting the national road safety initiative this year, featuring a range of events and activities aimed at promoting road safety awareness and fostering safer driving practices, with a range of community activations to raise awareness and spark conversations.
“RACT is proud to join the Tasmanian Government and the Road Safety Advisory Council in promoting this important initiative,” Mr Mugnaioni said.
Road Safety Advisory Council Chair, Scott Tilyard, said National Road Safety Week was a good reminder for all Tasmanians to think about the difference they can play in making our roads safer.
“This week highlights the impact of road trauma in our community and looks at ways that everyone can play a part in reducing this,” Mr Tilyard said.
“The theme for National Road Safety Week is Drive So Others Survive – All Road Safety is Local. We’re working to reduce the number of serious injuries and deaths on Tasmania’s roads, but we need the help of the community to achieve this – everyone has a part to play.”
National Road Safety Week was founded by Peter Frazer of the Safer Roads and Highways (SARAH) group, who began the campaign following the heartbreaking loss of his 23-year-old daughter to a distracted truck driver.
Mr Mugnaioni said whether drivers, passengers, cyclists or pedestrians, we must all take responsibility for our actions and make safer choices on the road.
“RACT urges all Tasmanians to get involved in National Road Safety Week, to remember those who have lost their lives, reflect on how we can make our roads safer and act to make a difference.”