Road Safety Grants are available now

The Nationals Member for Euroa, Annabelle Cleeland, is encouraging eligible community organisations to apply for road safety grants which opened recently and close on March 15.

“Road safety is an ever-increasing problem particularly across regional Victoria where our rapidly deteriorating roads have seen a concerning increase in road trauma statistics,” Ms Cleeland said.

“While the Andrews Government must take responsibility for repairing our crumbling roads network, grassroots organisations can also play a role in community safety.

“Applying for a road safety grant is a fantastic way for community organisations to get involved by helping to raise road safety awareness.

“Programs that could be funded under this grant stream include road signage, bike education and road safety programs as well as pedestrian safety measures.”

Road safety grants are available to incorporated associations with an ABN, Local Government Authorities, and schools.

Ms Cleeland said there is only a short window in which to apply for the road safety grants so it is important for community groups to act quickly. is is great opportunity for local schools to gain needed funding to facilitate learning programs around cycling, being a safe driver, passenger and pedestrian as well as understanding roadside signage,” said Ms Cleeland.

“Bike education is a very important program that is o en taught in schools – it provides young people with a solid foundation about understanding road safety rules and measures.

“I encourage schools and community groups to consider applying for funding to help address the important issue of road safety locally.”

Applications for the Community Road Safety Grants Program 2023/24 are now open and will close on 15 March.

Further information on the program guidelines can be found on VicRoads website https://www. vicroads.vic.gov.au/safety-and-road-rules/roadsafety-programs/vicroads-community-roadsafety-grants-program

Applications must be made through the SmartyGrants portal - https://vicroads. smartygrants.com.au/2324Grants

“ e committee wanted to create a space to help survivors, volunteers, the public, railway people, emergency services and their families to re ect and learn about a national tragedy which was at risk of fading from public consciousness.”

“It’s very gratifying to see the good that has been achieved by our combination of art, design and story-telling: never under-estimate the value of art to touch hearts and minds.”

Pam Robinson AM, a strong project supporter and past Shire President of Violet Town and Warrenbayne Farmer past on her congratulations, “I want to pass on my congratulations to the committee and Violettonians for using the arts to create a wonderful space of re ection, remembrance and respect of people's response to a huge tragedy.” e awards judging panel congratulated “everyone involved in keeping the memory and history of the Southern Aurora train rescue alive through the development of these memorial Gardens.”

“How the people of Violet Town banded together without delay, and the bravery, kindness and humanity the community exhibited in saving so many lives, is a story that every Australian should know and these memorial Gardens play an important role in that education.”