Quad bike safety taught in schools

A course by TAFE NSW aims to empower Riverina high school students to stay safe on quad bikes.

The two-day course, part of the Farm Vehicle Safety Program and funded by the Department of Education, will be delivered to high schools across the region and will run until mid-November.

Quad bikes are the leading cause of death and injury on Australian farms and more than 40 children have died on quad bikes nationwide since 2000.

The course will be delivered by TAFE NSW teachers to 16 schools in the Riverina, including Yanco Ag College, Finley High School, Deniliquin High School and Balranald Central School.

Member for Murray Austin Evans, who was raised on a sheep farm at Matong, said it was critical the foundations for on-farm safety were laid early.

‘‘Quad bikes are a common piece of farm equipment and it’s essential young people are equipped to deal with the very real dangers they pose,’’ Mr Evans said.

‘‘Whether it’s mustering sheep, inspecting fences or doing a water run, quad bikes are part of living on a farm.

‘‘Our communities have seen all too often the tragic results that can occur when something goes wrong on a quad bike.

‘‘I applaud TAFE NSW for delivering this course,’’ Mr Evans said.