This holiday season, Central Coast Council is again joining forces with the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation to help promote its important road safety campaign.

The foundation was established in 2014 after the tragic death of Tom McLaughlin in a pedestrian accident during a family holiday at MacMasters Beach.

Council Administrator, Mr Ian Reynolds said the Holiday time: slow down, kids around campaign is a timely reminder about the importance of road safety.

“Central Coast Council is proud to support the great work of the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation,” said Mr Reynolds.

“This campaign is about encouraging motorists to slow down in local streets as we head into the busy summer period.

“It’s also important that road users are aware of increased pedestrian activity at tourist locations during this time of year - ensuring everyone can enjoy a safe holiday break.”

The Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation has become an advocate for child road safety through community education and national campaigning initiatives.

The Holiday time: slow down, kids around campaign has spread to a number of popular coastal and regional areas in New South Wales as well as recently branching interstate into Victoria, Queensland and South Australia.

Tom’s parents and foundation co-founders Michelle and David McLaughlin now channel their energy into making the school holidays safer for children nation-wide.

“Children are in a highly excitable state on holidays and with the population spike in these areas during holiday periods, the risk of accidents is increased and it is a particularly dangerous time for children on roads,” said Ms McLaughlin.

“We are delighted to be joining forces with Central Coast Council to continue this vital children’s road safety campaign.”

Mr Reynolds added that while the holiday period meant busy local roads, many would also be taking road trips up or down the coast.

“For those travelling away from the Central Coast, allow plenty of time for your journey, monitor your speed and always take regular rest breaks.

“We want everyone to enjoy a safe and happy holiday break and that starts and finishes with a safe journey.”

Residents are also reminded that double-demerits will be in place for the Christmas break from midnight Thursday 22 December 2016 until midnight Monday 2 January 2017.

For more information on Council’s road safety programs contact our Road Safety Officers on 4325 8179 or 4350 5555.

To learn more about the Little Blue Dinosaur Foundation visit littlebluedinosaur.org