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Barry , 18-10-11 19:16:

A designated crossing with speed signs is all that is required, not some promotional crap for Entsch, why would you contact a federal membeer about this and local media present it this way, it is local/state issue.

Nick Marshall, 18-10-11 17:01:

A zebra crossing is definitely required near the surf club but I think more should be done along the lines that I have seen in the UK and Ireland. This is to create an "entrance" to Ellis Beach at both ends. The entrance consists of a wall on either side of the road at rightangles. It would be about 3m high next to the road and sloping down to 2m. Each "wing" would be about 5m long. In other words it looks like an entrance but without a gate. In addition the surface of the road is coloured red through the entrance. The wings of the entrance would have the usual welcome message plus "please mind our kids" etc. This works very well in europe to calm traffic and slow it going through villages.

katrina caswell, 18-10-11 16:10:

lets just hope that we dont have to wait until someone is killed to make this happen like the port douglas turnoff!! it should be done asap.

Ken Fuller, 18-10-11 15:00:

I think this is a long overdue problem that needs to be seriously looked into. The amount of money spent on road saftey campaigns and the difference it makes can be arguable. However this is something that WILL make a differnce to safety of children in particular but also anyone who frequents the club and bar. This is also a great way to show the youth of today that if you speak up for what you believe in, it will be listened by those who can do something about it and not just pushed away on the backburner. I also commend Sophie Alcorn on her initiative and thanks to Warrenb Entsch for taking notice.

Shellie Williams, 18-10-11 14:17:

A pedestrian crossing with approaching warning signs of 'children' crossing...would solve the problem, which normally only occurs certain months and on w/e's...so definately no need for 24/7 traffic lights.

Sam Cullen , 18-10-11 13:52:

A very serious matter that requires the appropriate consideration. Our roads in this area will always require constant scrutiny as the architects of the road systems in our region could never have foreseen the amount of traffic they now see.

Damian p, 18-10-11 10:09:

Dam good idea, the toilets and club house need safe access for the nippers.

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Tuesday 18 October 2011

Calls for Ellis Beach crossing

An Ellis Beach nipper has appealed to the government to install a pedestrian crossing at Ellis Beach after her friend was hit by a car while attempting to cross the busy Captain Cook Highway.

While nine year-old Sophie Alcorn's friend escaped serious injury, Sophie was compelled to write to Federal Member for Leichhardt, Warren Entsch, in a bid to ensure no further accidents occur on the stretch of road near Ellis Beach Surf Life Saving Club.

In a speech to the Main Committee, Mr Entsch read the letter from Sophie, and urged action be taken.

Watch the video of Mr Entsh's speech (left)

"Yesterday my friend and I tried to cross the road near Ellis Beach shops," the letter informed. "We stopped in the middle of the road when when we tried to cross the next lane.

"My friend was accidentally hit by a car. She bumped up the bonnet and bounced off.

"I think it is important to have a zebra crossing or pedestrian lights to make it safer for everyone to cross the road."

Division 9 councillor, Sno Bonneu has backed the move, but there has been no response to date from Minister for Roads, Craig Wallace.

Ellis Beach attracts hundreds of people for Surf Life Saving events who regularly cross the highway to get to the shops and facilities.

Do you think Ellis Beach needs a pedestrian crossing? Have your say below.

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