Murray River Council Mayor John Harvie.
Photo by
Emily Donohoe
The Sturt Highway Taskforce has launched a road safety campaign, ‘Arrive safe this Christmas’, urging all road users to take extra care as traffic increases during the festive season.
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The message is for local and regular users of the highway, but others who may be heading out on the road this festive season.
The taskforce includes the councils of Wagga Wagga, Narrandera, Leeton, Hay, Murray River, Balranald, Wentworth and Murrumbidgee.
It advocates for investment in safety, infrastructure and freight efficiency along the 605km highway, which connects Tarcutta in NSW to Adelaide via Victoria and South Australia.
Taskforce chair and Murrumbidgee Mayor Ruth McRae OAM said the campaign is a timely reminder that every journey matters.
Cr McRae said Christmas is a time for family and celebration, but it’s also one of the most dangerous times of year on our roads.
“We want everyone to reach their destination safely,” she said.
“That means slowing down, resting regularly, and making smart decisions before and during every trip.”
New data from Transport for NSW shows that in 2024, 340 people lost their lives on NSW roads.
Nearly 70 per cent of those were on regional roads.
Speeding remains a leading contributor to fatal crashes, and fatigue continues to be a major risk factor for drivers.
Cr Ruth McRae OAM.
The Taskforce’s ‘Arrive safe this Christmas’ campaign will highlight simple, practical messages each week from mid-November through to Christmas.
These messages will cover:
• Slow down and rest up – speed and fatigue kill. Stop every two hours and plan realistic travel times.
• If you drink or use, don’t drive – alcohol and drugs remain major factors in preventable crashes.
• See and be seen – make good choices behind the wheel, avoid distractions and drive to conditions.
• Expect the unexpected – watch for wildlife, check road conditions, and stay clear of bushfire zones.
Murray River Council Mayor, Cr John Harvie, said road safety is a shared responsibility, especially during the busy holiday season.
“This campaign is about more than statistics; it’s about saving lives,” Cr Harvie said.
“Whether you’re driving a long distance to see family or just heading into town, it’s up to all of us to make safe choices on the road.”
