Victorian sports community rallies behind road safety round

Sporting clubs across Victoria, including those in Brimbank, and the state government are banding together to promote road safety and honour those killed on the road.

Tourism, Sport and Major Events Minister Steve Dimopoulos along with the TAC and AFL Victoria launched the third annual Road Safety Round alongside the Transport Accident Commission and AFL Victoria on Tuesday, July 12.

Kicking off this weekend, coaches, players, and supporters from more than 1000 Victorian football and netball clubs will don a blue armband to show their commitment to eliminating death and serious injury on state roads.

So far this year, 132 people have lost their lives on Victorian roads, with 77 of those in regional areas – a rise on the 59 regional deaths at the same time last year.

There has also been a rise in the number of lives lost in the 18-25 age group, with the figure currently at 24 deaths, compared to 16 this time last year.

Mr Dimopolous said clubs are an important part of shaping their younger players and members attitudes and behaviours.

“Local football and netball clubs are at the heart of their communities and play a significant role in influencing attitudes and behaviours on our roads,” he said.

“Tragically, most football and netball clubs across Victoria will have felt the impact of road trauma firsthand.

“This Road Safety Round is an opportunity to remember those we have lost and educate the community on the importance of road safety.

Details: www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/band-together/band-together