Over the next two years, safety improvements will be delivered to 11 schools across the Rockhampton Region, thanks to more than $2.7 million in funding from the Department of Transport and Main Roads' (TMR) School Transport Infrastructure Program (STIP).
The funding contribution will be used to implement tailored upgrades at schools from Gracemere to Kawana, including intersection modifications, new footpaths, enhanced pedestrian facilities, and improved parking.
Rockhampton Regional Council Mayor Tony Williams stressed the importance of safeguarding children on their way to and from school.
"Our school children are some of our most vulnerable road users, and I'm pleased to have the State's support in addressing these road safety challenges," Mayor Williams said.
"This funding contribution will help us ensure safer journeys for students, families, and school crossing supervisors."
Mayor Williams also highlighted the previous success of the STIP program in delivering tangible safety improvements in school zones across the Region.
"Since 2018, this program has benefited our Region significantly, with over 20 schools already receiving upgrades, and now an additional 11 will benefit," Mayor Williams said.
Eight projects under the 2023/24 round will be completed this financial year. Schools receiving upgrades include:
- Rockhampton State High School
- Glenmore State School
- Berserker State School
- Waraburra State School
- St Mary's Primary School
- St Paul's Primary School
- Emmaus College
- The Cathedral College
Council received further funding for three new projects under the 2024/25 STIP round bringing the total to eleven projects, with works to be carried out at Crescent Lagoon State School, Gracemere State School and Waraburra State School in 2025/26.
Infrastructure Councillor Marika Taylor said the upgrades are designed to make it easier for students, parents, caregivers, and other road users to safely navigate the areas around schools.
"Many schools will receive new footpaths to improve connectivity, encouraging parents and caregivers to park nearby and walk their children in and out of school," Cr Taylor said.
"Other schools will benefit from upgraded parking facilities and enhanced pedestrian facilities."
Councillor Taylor added that the works will where possible, be scheduled during school holidays to minimise disruption, with construction completed at St Mary's Primary School and already underway at Berserker State School and St Paul's Primary School.
"As we roll out these upgrades, it's important for everyone in the community to remember their role in ensuring children's safety around schools," Cr Taylor said.
"Drivers must slow down, stay alert, and be extra cautious during peak school hours."
St Mary's Primary School Principal Simon Warren welcomed the completion of the works outside the school.
"We are grateful to Rockhampton Regional Council and the State Government for their support in making this upgrade possible," Mr Warren said.
"The addition of new pathways provides easier access for our parents, caregivers, and students.
"It promotes healthier lifestyles by encouraging families to walk to and from school safely, which also helps reduce traffic congestion.
"I am looking forward to seeing our families use the new footpaths."
