Online petition fighting for changes to level crossing safety

Following on from calls from Weddin Shire Council Mayor Mark Liebich to approach Member for Riverina Michael McCormack and Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke to changes around safety at level crossings and changes to the legislation, Madeline Bott, who lost her fiance last month to a tragic accident, has created an online petition calling on support from the community to make these changes as well.

"On the 23rd of February 2021 my beloved Ethan and his work colleague Mark, lost their lives at a level crossing on Eurabba Lane," Madeline said.

Eurabba Lane is between Bribbaree and Quandialla, around 70kms north west of Young.

"They were in a road train truck carting gypsum from one side of a farm to the other," Madeline said.

"Both incredibly sensible and hardworking men who did not race the train and with better railway safety measures both would still be here today.

"This railway crossing had only a simple stop and look for trains sign.

"This railway lines view is obstructed with overgrown grass and a significant amount of trees."

The petition calls for changes to the legislation and to safety practices at all level crossings across the country in what Madeline hopes will prevent anyone else having to live through the tragedy that she is currently living with.

"I will never be able to bring Ethan back, but I can fight to make sure I do all I can to prevent anyone else going through the pain I feel," Madeline said.

To sign the petition visit https://www.change.org/p/stephanie-cook-safety-at-all-level-crossings.

You can also leave a message for Ethan and Mark's families and loved ones and donate toward the cause as well.

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