Member for Cootamundra Steph Cooke is joining local woman Madeline Bott who lost her fiance earlier this year, in urging NSW residents to sign the ePetition calling for increased safety measures at level crossings around the state.
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In February this year Ethan Hunter (27) and Mark Fenton (50) were killed instantly when their B double truck was struck by a train at a level crossing near Bribbaree.
Ethan was due to marry Ms Bott at Easter this year 2021, but now Ms Bott is fighting to ensure no one else experiences her loss.
Ms Bott is urging all NSW residents to sign the petition which will allow Ms Cooke to present it to the State Parliament.
"We need people to put their name to this petition, it's just so important to our rural and regional communities," Ms Bott said.
"Everyone in NSW has a reason to sign; whether they live near a level crossing, will ever use one, has a loved one who is in our emergency services or is a first responder themselves, we all have a role to play in protecting people.
"Now is the time to put your name to this, and to start having important conversations about rail safety, particularly with the Inland Rail project underway.
"I just want to thank everyone who has signed this petition and shared it with their friends and family, it is reaching across the state which is great."
Steph Cooke MP said the ePetition could lead to action on rail safety.
"I am in awe of Maddie Bott. To turn such a personal tragedy in to action is truly remarkable."
"We owe it to her and all those who have lost loved ones in rail crossing accidents to fight for improved safety. It is one of the honours of my career to work with her on this issue."
"I will continue to raise it with my colleagues and in the NSW Parliament."
"Maddie has kindly given up her time to join me for meetings with the Deputy Premier and Minister for Regional Transport and Roads and I am confident we can make real change on this issue."
"This is just the beginning of this campaign; if we can get to 20,000 signatures it will trigger a debate in the House, which could lead to progress when it comes to rail safety."
At the time of writing the ePetition has 11,162 signatures.
The ePetition closes on 5 July 2021: https://www.parliament.nsw.gov.au/la/Pages/ePetition-details.aspx?q=QQUGJ0/mWLyBeBBwd9XfOw==
