Trauma discussion … Senior Constable Steve Cook will hold a road trauma public forum in Werribee this week. 28401 Picture: EMILY LANE
By Bridie Byrne
OVER the past seven years Senior Constable Steve Cook has come to learn road trauma is a hidden tragedy.
The Werribee policeman said the municipality was a satellite city where hoon behaviour among youths was an institution.
“The infrastructure is not here…and kids have a culture around their cars,” he said.
Sen Const Cook has been first on the scene countless times when thrill-seeking driving turns fatal.
Injuries have ranged from ruptured spleens, broken skulls to fractured ribs.
He said his focus on trying to curb the activity shifted when he learnt parents were aware of their children’s late night actions.
It has led to a road trauma public forum being launched in Werribee.
“Parents need to take more responsibility for what their kids are doing,” Sen Const Cook said.
“The kids modify the vehicles illegally and get involved in car accidents and the parent becomes liable.
“Hopefully it will be a wake up call to parents.”
Sen Const Cook said technology was fuelling the activity with you tube and my space allowing teenagers to boast.
But he said it was also helping the police identify offenders.
The forum will be a first for the western suburbs and will discuss policing strategies and hoon impoundment laws.
There will be a live mock collision by the CFA and guest speakers from the police, Magistrate Noreen Toohey, Dr Alan Underwood and crash survivor Andy Harrison.
It will take place at the Wyndham Leisure and Events Centre on 25 October from 3pm to 6pm.
For more information call Sen Const Cook on 9742 9444.
