Case studies - Park and Walk

Brisbane Active School Travel Program Brisbane City Council

Recognising the importance of walking for students on their way to or from primary school, Brisbane City Council has embarked on an Active School Travel Program that has proved to be highly successful.

A range of tools are available on their website, and the implementation of safe places for students to be dropped off and picked up to and from school that is normally between 500 metres to one kilometre from the school gate has resulted in a reduction of traffic congestion, a safer environment for children by reducing the number of cars in the school area and an increase in physical activity by integrating active travel into families' daily routines.

Teesdale Activity Trail Golden Plains Shire

An enthusiastic team of grade 4, 5 and 6 students engaged with a consultant to explore the creation of a walking trail that is not only safe but exciting and fun as well.

The students suggested that signage along the trail tell a story about the Eastern Long-necked Turtle, with turtle sculptures along the path that students could play on. They also understood that walking to school has some great benefits – you get some exercise, you get an opportunity to relate to the environment and the community, and it means less traffic around the school at drop off and pick-up times.

Safe Active Travel Routes to School Healthy Together Geelong (HTG) and the City of Greater Geelong

Healthy Together Geelong, the City of Greater Geelong and Bellarine Community Health supported Portarlington Primary School to identify a number of safe active travel routes with pick up/drop off points located between 500 metres – 1 kilometre from the school gate to entice families to park their car and walk/cycle part of the way to or from school. The Portarlington case study video is worth checking out.

Cardinia Stop & Drop Zones Cardinia Shire Council

Cardinia Shire Council’s Streets Ahead program includes the installation of Stop and Drop Zones across the Shire. These zones are a designated space, up to a kilometre away from the school's entrance, at which parents are encouraged to drop off and pick up their children. Children then walk, ride, scoot or skate to and from school.

The Stop and Drop Zones assist in increasing school students’ activity levels and easing traffic congestion around schools. Families are encouraged to accompany their children, if they wish. It is suggested that students leave the zone by 8.30am to ensure they get to school on time.