3500 motorcyclists rev engines at State Parliament over road safety
About 3500 motorcyclists and supporters filled Spring and Bourke streets on Sunday. They demanded urgent fixes to Victoria's crumbling roads.
The rally was sparked by recent deaths caused by road hazards. A motorcyclist died last month after losing control of his bike when he hit a pothole on the Western Highway near Beaufort and went over the handlebars.
Ruth Hogarth's brother John died in a 2024 motorcycle crash on the Western Freeway at Ballan. He hit asphalt repair bumps.
Protesters chanted "fix the roads" as riders revved their bikes on the Parliament steps. Rally organiser Michael White said riders were sick of burying their mates.
He called for accountability, not politics. Opposition Leader Jess Wilson pledged a $5 billion road maintenance program if elected.
Premier Ben Carroll gave $1.4 billion for road resurfacing. He delayed some level crossing removals.
This freed up $352 million for rapid repairs.
- About 3500 motorcyclists and supporters
- Attendance
- $5 billion road maintenance program
- Opposition pledge
Why it mattersRoad damage like potholes kill riders and drivers. Protesters are demanding government action after recent deaths.
AustraliaVictorians face the risk of hazardous road conditions; the protest may pressure the state government to accelerate maintenance work before the election.
Corroborated bytheage.com.au·watoday.com.au
✓ Claims checked against the source and corrected before publish. checked 52 min ago
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