Council reaches out to tragedy families

Published on 24 April 2023

The Moira Shire Council extends its deepest sympathies and condolences to the families and relatives of those who lost their lives in the fatal collision at Strathmerton on the Murray Valley Highway last Thursday.

The Council’s Administrator John Tanner AM and the Acting Chief Executive Officer Joshua Lewis said today the Council was making available a range of counselling services to assist all those involved in the collision.

“Our whole community is affected deeply by this tragedy. We will provide whatever assistance we can to help the families and relatives cope with its effects on their lives,” said Mr. Tanner.

“I extend this in particular to the families of Ms Debbie Markey and those who have flown in from overseas, as well as to the people at JBS Australia abattoirs and Booth Transport and its driver who was involved in the collision. Their lives have been changed forever.

“The Shire is a close knit community. It is only through reaching out and coming together that families in need can be helped.”

Mr. Lewis said the Council was working with the Police and the Department of Transport and Planning to improve the immediate safety of the intersection.

“We believe a corridor plan for the Murray Valley Highway with a strong focus on safety along its entire route across Moira would be an important initiative,” he said.

“The road is the backbone of the Shire’s transport network and must be safe for all users, whether they are driving trucks, cars or motorcycles.”

Mr. Lewis also reminded drivers and urged all residents to always take caution when travelling throughout the municipality.

“I urge you to place your safety and that of your fellow community members as the highest priority,” he said.

The Council will hold a minute’s silence at its Council meeting this week to contemplate and reflect on the loss of lives and the families affected by the tragic incident.