Safety complaints filed almost every three school days for crossing guards
An 88-year-old crossing supervisor’s dismissal has highlighted public complaints about Geelong’s school crossing program, with almost one complaint reported every three school days.
School crossing supervisors aged up to 80 are sparking safety concerns across Geelong, with one complaint filed by road users almost every three working days.
The City of Greater Geelong council received 51 complaints about school crossing supervisors in one year, including concerns about unattended crossings and supervisors’ fitness for work.
City Life executive director Anthony Basford said: “Between 1 October 2024 to 1 October 2025, we (Geelong council) received 51 complaints about unsafe practice, unattended crossings, frustrated drivers not agreeing with being stopped, fitness for work (mobility concerns) and behavioural concerns.”
Over the past 12 months, Golden Plains Shire council received one complaint related to the uniform worn by a crossing supervisor.
The Borough of Queenscliffe council and Surf Coast council did not receive any complaints.
A Golden Plains Shire council spokeswoman said: “The service is highly valued in providing safety for pedestrians and children and reducing the risk of injuries or accidents in and around our schools.”
Athena Clarke, 88, has taken Geelong council’s recent decision to be relieved of her duties as a school crossing supervisor to the Fair Work Commission.
After spending more than 46 years on the corner of Shannon Ave and Aberdeen St, Ms Clarke stood down in August after council reportedly received a number of calls from “concerned community members” about Ms Clarke adding she had a fall while on the job.
City of Greater Geelong chief executive Ali Wastie said two dates were subsequently set for Ms Clarke to participate in an independent medical assessment; however, on both occasions she was unable to complete the assessment due to ill health and medical concerns
“The safety of our community is our top priority – in this case, at a very busy intersection used daily by primary-aged children and their families,” Ms Wastie said.
“The City has clear policies in place, including our Fit for Work Policy, which guide evidence-based decision making.
“For our school crossing supervisors, due to the requirements of the role being minimal compared to others, the assessment typically involves reaction times, balance and grip strength.”
It is understood despite a community petition that saw over 2700 signatures in favour of Ms Clarke to be reinstated, council’s decision remains unchanged.
“We would have loved to have had the opportunity to celebrate her significant service to our community, however, this was declined by her family,” Ms Wastie said.
Ms Clarke’s family expects to have a decision from the Fair Work Commision by the first week of December.
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Originally published as Safety complaints filed almost every three school days for crossing guards
