January 13, 2009
The Nationals Member for Gippsland Darren Chester has appealed for motorists to take it easy when returning home from their summer holidays following the horrific start to 2009 on local roads.
Six deaths have occurred on East Gippsland roads in one of the region’s most tragic New Year tourism periods.
Mr Chester said his thoughts and prayers were with the families of those who had lost their lives or were injured on Gippsland roads so far this year.
He called on motorists to allow extra time when travelling on Gippsland roads.
“Our local roads are always busier at this time of year as tourists head toward the Gippsland Lakes and East Gippsland wilderness region,” Mr Chester said.
“This won’t change in the lead-up to the Australia Day long weekend.
“I urge all motorists to allow extra time for their travel and to drive patiently.”
Mr Chester said he would continue to work with State and Federal Government Ministers to secure more funding to improve the safety of local roads.
“Various reports have found that improving the safety of the road environment is critical to reducing the road toll,” Mr Chester said.
“Fixing country roads, saves country lives.
“I will work with Government Ministers as a priority to secure funding to seal road shoulders, build more overtaking lanes and improve rest areas from Traralgon to the NSW border.”