November 2002

Program preaches head protection

Victoria Police Assistant Commissioner (Traffic Operations and Support) Ray Shuey and world number one female cyclist and Olympic and Commonwealth Games medallist Anna Millward were guests at the launch of the Safe Cycle Program at the Royal Children’s Hospital.

The Safe Cycle Program is a joint initiative of the Royal Children’s, Victorian Police, Kidsafe and Rosebank.

The annual October campaign aims to reduce the number of bike accidents—an estimated 40,000 bike accidents occur in Victoria each year, many involving children.

State Bicycle Co-ordination Unit Officer in Charge Senior Constable Brett Harman said the Safe Cycle campaign encouraged people to cycle safely.

Senior Constable Harman said last year police spoke to more than 17,000 people as part of the campaign.

‘All road users, including cyclists, must recognise their own responsibilities and respect the rights of others,’ Senior Constable Harman said.

Royal Children’s Hospital Senior Physician of Emergency Management Dr Ed Oakley said wearing safety equipment was especially important in reducing the number of injuries.

‘I have no doubt specifically designed safety helmets prevent many injuries, some of them serious,’ Dr Oakley said.

‘We see a number of children and adolescents with significant head injuries that could be prevented by the wearing of safety helmets.

‘If the choice is to look cool and risk death or a serious brain injury or wear a helmet, I would choose the helmet.’

The Safe Cycle Program is supported by VicRoads, local councils, schools and community groups.