Skateboarders a safety hazard
COFFEE, ice-creams and skateboards are proving a dangerous mix in Yeppoon's main street with some residents concerned for their safety.
Edward Harbas, who enjoys a regular alfresco coffee in the main street with his partner Moncie, said the pair was confronted by a constant stream of teenagers on skateboards, scooters and bikes.
"They whiz by within millimetres of patrons, including children and toddlers.
"These projectiles are being manoeuvred, willy-nilly, in and out of control at an unacceptable speed along a pedestrian walkway."
Rockhampton Regional Council is responsible for public safety in alfresco dining situations.
According to Snr Sgt Bob Barclay, from Yeppoon Police, skateboarding on the footpath was legal unless signed otherwise.
Signs in Normanby St clearly state that skateboards, scooters, roller blades and bikes were not to be ridden on the footpath; but the signs were hardly visible.
Sgt Barclay said the signs, one about 25 metres away and the other around the corner almost hidden by a tree, were insufficient.
Yesterday, he called on the council to ask for more effective signs to be placed.
"When the signs are in place, we can police it properly," he said.
Rockhampton Regional Council did not respond to The Bulletin's questions yesterday.
Do you think skateboarders can share the footpath safely with pedestrians? Leave a comment below.
