Key speed zone safety requests not supported for Goroke and Apsley

Published on 21 August 2026

West Wimmera Shire Council has expressed disappointment after the Victorian Government declined requests to reduce speed limits in Goroke and Apsley.

Council has received a formal response from the Minister for Roads and Road Safety regarding requests from Council and the local community for lower speed zones and improved road safety outcomes in both towns.

The response does not support the speed reductions sought by Council.

The requests followed sustained advocacy from Council and local communities for safer roads in Goroke and Apsley, particularly around areas with pedestrian activity, school movements and access to community health services.

In Goroke, Council had raised concerns about Natimuk-Frances Road near Goroke P–12 College and the community health centre, including requests for electronic flashing 40 km/h school zone signs, a permanent reduction to 50 km/h, and changes to township speed transition zones.

Council is disappointed the Minister has advised that electronic flashing 40 km/h school zone signs are not warranted at this stage, on the basis that Natimuk-Frances Road carries relatively low traffic volumes and does not meet the thresholds set out in the current speed zoning guidelines.

Council is also disappointed that the request for a permanent reduction to 50 km/h near the school was not supported, with the Department of Transport and Planning determining that the existing 60 km/h speed zone remains consistent with current policy and the surrounding road environment.

While the key speed reduction requests were not supported, Council notes confirmation that the township speed transition zone in Goroke will be adjusted.

The Department of Transport and Planning supports relocating the 60 km/h gateway signs further east of the Goroke cemetery, with installation expected by the end of September 2026.

Council considers this a modest but positive step that might help reduce vehicle speeds, increase driver awareness when entering the township and improve safety for vulnerable road users.

Council also acknowledges the response to community concerns about pedestrian activity between Goroke P–12 College and the community health centre.

The department has advised that any proposal for a school crossing would require further assessment and department approval, and has indicated a willingness to meet with Council officers to discuss other suitable improvements at this location.

Council will continue discussions with the Department of Transport and Planning to explore practical measures that may support pedestrian safety and respond to the needs of students, families, health service users and the broader Goroke community.

Council also remains disappointed that speed zone changes sought for Apsley have not been supported at this time.

Council will continue to advocate for safe and appropriate speed environments across the shire and will keep the community informed as further advice or outcomes are received.

Mayor Tim Meyer said Council shared the community’s disappointment and recognised the importance of continued advocacy on road safety matters raised by local residents.

“Council is disappointed that the key speed zone changes requested by the community have not been supported, particularly given the concerns raised about pedestrian activity near the school and health centre,” he said.

“The relocation of the Goroke gateway signs is a welcome step, but Council believes there remains a need to keep working with the department to identify practical improvements that better reflect local road safety concerns.”

Council will provide further updates to the community as discussions continue with the Department of Transport and Planning.

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