Monday, 21 October 2019

Students from seven schools across Gippsland battled it out at the Latrobe City Traffic School in Morwell for the title of regional champion after advancing through municipal challenges held earlier in the year.

A group of Cowes Primary School students have been named Gippsland Bike Ed Challenge Champions following a competition that tested their bike safety and coordination skills.

Second place on the day went to Heyfield Primary School. Highest scoring girl competitor went to Roxy Helmers from Heyfield Primary School and the prize for the highest scoring boy competitor went to Taelen Richards, also from Heyfield Primary School.

The challenge saw students use skills developed in the Bike Ed program to complete a circuit of activities based on balance and control. Riders had to demonstrate how to correctly turn at traffic lights and a roundabout while scanning, signalling and giving way.

The Bike Ed program runs in primary schools across Victoria to help prepare students to ride safely on roads. The Gippsland Bike Ed Challenge is funded through the Andrews Labor Government’s Community Road Safety Grants Program.  Latrobe City Council hosted the Regional Bike Ed Challenge at its Traffic School facility.

The winners took home the John Hehir Memorial Trophy as reigning Gippsland champions. John Hehir was a local who was instrumental in the re-development of the Latrobe City Traffic School and coordinated the regional challenges for many years.

For more information about the Bike Ed program visit vicroads.vic.gov.au.

Quote attributable to Member for Eastern Victoria Harriet Shing

“Gippsland kids have been putting their newly acquired skills from the Bike Ed program into action – we’re proud to be supporting this initiative.”

Quotes attributable to Latrobe City Council Mayor Graeme Middlemiss

“Anything that will equip the young people within our region with the skills and knowledge needed to participate in bike and road activities safely is a positive. We look forward to continuing support for the Bike Ed Challenge.”

Quote attributable to Member for Bass Jordan Crugnale

“It’s great to see Cowes Primary School take out that Gippsland Bike Ed Challenge championship in a fantastic initiative that teachers our kids how to be safe and responsible on our roads.: