Steadfast crossing-safety schoolchildren rewarded

For the first time in several years, the annual Orange Parade returned to George St yesterday to recognise the hundreds of children who control pedestrian crossings outside their schools throughout the year.

Children from 29 schools, between Balclutha and Waikouaiti, paraded through the Dunedin CBD in high-visibility vests before gathering in the Octagon where they were officially thanked by Dunedin city councillor Jim O’Malley.

"I really admire you. You represent everything that’s good about this city and all the towns that you come from.

"You’re reliable, you turn up every day to do your job, no matter what the weather is. Other people depend on you for their safety.

"You have been picked because you are those kids who can always be relied on. You sacrifice to make your community better and that is something that we should all strive to."

Anderson’s Bay School pupil Maddison Ellis (11) said that when she started school, she had admired the older pupils who controlled the crossings, and now that she was a senior pupil, she wanted to return the favour.

She said it was a big responsibility and she did the job rain, hail or shine.

"Some days I get wet, but I don’t care. I just want to get people to school safely."

DCC road safety education co-ordinator Aukje van Aalst said the parade was not held for the past two years because traffic management for the event was too expensive.

However, the council had found money to fund it this year.

"It’s worth it," she said.

"These are the kids who are out on the street helping all our children get to school safely. They deserve the recognition."

Following the parade, they were treated to a swim and barbecue lunch at Moana Pool.

john.lewis@odt.co.nz