‘Look after each other’: Police Minister Reece Whitby urges road safety ahead of Leavers Week

Police Minister Reece Whitby is urging almost 9,000 school leavers to keep road safety front of mind, as celebrations 12 years in the making get underway across the State’s south-west.

Mr Whitby – whose own daughter is among this year’s graduates – travelled to Busselton on Sunday to share an important message about safety, particularly with Tom’s Law, which limits red P-platers to just one passenger per vehicle.

“Red plate one mate, so unless you’ve got an exemption, you should have one mate in the car,” he said.

“The friends that you’re down here with, look after each other. Be each other’s mate. . . approach a police officer if you think one of your friends needs help, is sick or threatened.

“Alcohol rules will be enforced, so underage drinking won’t be allowed and the supply of alcohol to underage drinkers won’t be allowed.”

Premier Roger Cook said safety doesn’t have to come at the expense of fun.

“Party, dance hard, but look after yourself. Look after your mates. Don’t make really bad decisions,” he said.

South West Superintendent Paul van Noort also spoke about restrictions on access to the Leavers Zone, reminding leavers that driving directly to the event is prohibited.

“There is a shuttle service and we encourage the leavers to take that shuttle service. It’s a long walk,” he said.

“Each leaver will be issued a unique wristband with its own QR code. On that wristband, there’ll be a unique number as well that you can call if you’re feeling unsafe or you’ve got concerns.”

Premier Roger Cook also shared a message to school Leavers on Sunday.

“There’s always a certain amount of trepidation, both on behalf of the government, the police and parents when it comes to Leavers,” he said.

“Of course, the message to leavers every year is party, dance hard, but look after yourself. Look after your mates. Don’t make really bad decisions.”

17-year-old Tess Delroy, a school leaver from Perth, made the trip to Busselton on Sunday and expressed her excitement for the days ahead.

“There’s five of us that have driven down today, I used to live here in Busselton and I haven’t been back since, so I’m just excited to be down again,” she said. “I’m most looking forward to the country dress-up day at the Leavers Zone.”

For many parents, including Anna Lombardi, the focus is on both celebrating their children’s achievement of finishing Year 12 and ensuring their safety during the festivities.

“I drove down with my daughter and a friend, along with all their luggage, food and drinks,” she said.

“I’m staying close by, but not that close. I’m here just in case any of the eight girls that are staying together need someone for anything.

“It feels safer for them being there, and on behalf of all the other mums.”