Support for Student Council's Project 20K

October 12, 2004

Support for Student Council's Project 20K

Officials from around Queenstown and the Southern region turned out to support an initiative designed to increase the road safety of children using school buses.

Graeme Rice from Land Transport Safety Authority Dunedin and Queenstown Lakes District Mayor Clive Geddes were joined by the principals of three Queenstown schools, Police representatives, a representative for local MP David Carter and bus company principals in congratulating the Wakatipu High School Student Council for the successful launch of Project 20K.

"I have been extremely impressed by the practical and professional way the Student Council has gone about this project," said Mr Rice. "It is hugely inspiring to see young people coming through the ranks with a practical and organised approach and an excellent project."

Project 20K was launched today (Tuesday, October 12) at a morning tea function. As a result of the Student Council's efforts, every school bus in Queenstown is now affixed with a sign designed to remind drivers of the 20km speed limit when passing loading or unloading school buses.

Queenstown Police Senior Sergeant John Fookes thanked the Council and applauded their efforts.

"This council has been organised and proactive in its approach to a significant issue. If you can pull back the road toll even by preventing one serious injury or death, you make a big impact on communities such as ours."

Mayor Clive Geddes called for the project to be taken nationwide with compulsory painting of school buses to prominently feature the passing speed limit and the fact the bus is a school bus.

"I would like to see this initiative as a small step towards a nationwide campaign," he said.

MP David Parker was represented by Angela Dolan who offered the MP's apologies and thanked the Council for its efforts.

The initiative is the first in the country by a Student Council and one the Council would like to see followed by other student groups.

ENDS

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