The Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale is launching the annual equine road safety campaign to raise awareness of horses on local roads and to remind all road users to Pass Horses Wide and Slow to make every journey safe.
Timed to coincide with Road Safety Week, the campaign will leverage the national focus on safer driving behaviours and shared responsibility on roads. It will aim to increase awareness of horses travelling on roads across the Shire and to encourage courtesy and care among all road users when sharing paths and roadways.
As Western Australia’s fastest-growing local government authority, and a semi-rural community, the Shire of Serpentine Jarrahdale faces unique road safety challenges. These include horses using local roads, as well as an increased number of children riding bikes and scooters in residential and rural areas.
The Shire has released a number of guidelines on safe driving practices when near horses. These include driving a maximum of 25 km/h when approaching a horse, leaving at least two metres of space between one’s vehicle and the horse, watching the rider to see if they indicate when it is safe to pass and accelerating smoothly and slowly to avoid any sudden engine noises that may spook the horse.
Horse riders are advised to wear the right safety gear, communicate clearly with road users via hand signals and observe the horse’s reactions, especially signs it may be unsettled or nervous.
“We want everyone, including riders, drivers, cyclists and pedestrians, to feel confident and safe when travelling through our horse-friendly areas. By respecting each other and following these simple guidelines, we can all enjoy safer roads and more confident journeys,” the Shire has declared.
Shire President Rob Coales said that with such a strong and active equine community, it’s essential that the Shire takes the safety of horse riders, horse drawn carriage drivers and all road users seriously.
“The Shire is growing rapidly and with the new Byford Train station, there are more people commuting through our road network. Safety must therefore be our priority,” President Coales said.
“The Equine Road Safety Campaign is a simple reminder to all road users of how to share the road safely together. Whether you’re driving, walking, riding a bike, or travelling on horseback, always remember to pass horses wide and slow. The Shire is encouraging residents to help spread the road safety message by sharing a series of campaign videos across social media platforms.
“Everyone should feel safe and assured on our roads, and with the community’s support we can make every journey a safe one.”
This news follows the Examiner’s report on February 26th, regarding the Darling Downs Residents Association’s call for a safety wall along the Comic Loop South trail, after fears emerged that upgraded roadworks in the area could pose a serious risk to the many riders using the loop.
Particular concern was raised by association president Bruce Hilliard, who said the trail, which runs parallel to the upgraded Thomas Road, had become more exposed due to the removal of trees that once acted as a natural barrier.
A major area of development, SJ continues to attempt a balancing of increased urbanisation and infrastructure development with its beloved semi-rural feel and equine focus.
This campaign is supported by a Road Safety Commission Grant.
