Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is urging motorists to take care during the Christmas holiday period after ten people lost their lives on the state’s roads over the weekend, including “a much-loved man” of the Cowra community.
An 84-year-old man died after the minibus he was travelling in, was involved in a collision in Cowra on Saturday night. The driver of the bus – the Cowra Bowling Club courtesy bus – along with four other passengers were injured.
“This is a tragic incident, and our deepest sympathies are with the deceased gentleman’s family and friends at this extremely difficult time,” Ms Cooke said.
“My thoughts and prayers are also with those injured in the accident. Nobody ever wants to hear news like this, particularly at Christmas time, and I want to extend my most heartfelt support to the families of all those involved, and to Bowling Club staff and patrons, some of whom I sat down and spoke with today, and who are understandably extremely shaken by what’s happened.
“The club has offered staff and patrons access to counselling services, and I applaud them for the support they’ve provided,” she said.
Ms Cooke also met with members of the Cowra Police to thank them for their response, and extended her appreciation to the NSW Ambulance paramedics, and the members of Fire & Rescue NSW who attended the scene and provided support.
“I’d like to express my gratitude to the emergency responders and thank them for being on call during the Christmas season, standing ready to assist if and when they’re needed; they work tirelessly to respond to emergencies, often sacrificing time with their own families during the holiday period, and I want them to know their service is never taken for granted,” Ms Cooke said.
As the school holidays get underway and traffic increases, Ms Cooke said the entire community has a role to play in being vigilant and responsible on the roads.
“I simply encourage everyone to exercise caution on the roads, adhere to speed limits, drive to the conditions, avoid distractions, and by doing so, hopefully we can help ensure that everyone reaches their destinations safely,” Ms Cooke said.
