Shire of Pingelly gathers to bless roads, travellers and those who keep them safe ahead of Easter long weekend

Shire of Pingelly staff, emergency service crews and community members gathered at Pingelly Memorial Park on Thursday ahead of the long weekend for the annual Blessing of the Roads. Now in its 25th year, the blessing raises road safety awareness through reflection and acknowledges those who keep roads safe as Western Australians prepare to celebrate Easter with holidays around the State. “Let us pledge here and now to navigate the highways and byways with wisdom, humility and respect for our fellow travellers,” Pingelly chief executive Andrew Dover said after a moment of silence was observed. “In this moment of reflection, we extend our deepest gratitude to the unsung heroes who stand as sentinels of safety along our routes. “To the brave men and women of our emergency services whose selfless dedication knows no bounds we offer our sincere thanks.” Road users of all types also received a blessing. “As we bestow our blessing upon the roads, let us not forget those who traverse them in service of others,” he said. “The truck drivers, their journey fraught with solitude and sacrifice, the motorists who embark on journeys of necessity and pleasure alike, guide them with patience and protection to their destinations. “The cyclists and motorcyclists who share our thoroughfares . . . the guardians of the highways, the diligent road workers . . . the men and women in uniform, the steadfast officers of the emergency services who stand ready to confront adversity at a moment’s notice. “May your Easter be free of the spectre of tragedy and may they be endowed with courage and resources needed to mitigate harm and preserve life.” The blessing closed with 15 seconds of emergency service vehicle sirens to raise awareness to all within earshot.