Fernleigh Track: Safety in numbers on popular path | poll

Vicki Coughlan hoped recent reports about people fearing for their welfare on the popular pathway would not deter them from using it, as there was safety in numbers.

The Adamstown resident uses the busy track most days, and said it was never very long before a fellow runner, walker or rider appeared.

But she was concerned a recent story by the Newcastle Herald, where two women described frightening encounters on the track, might deter people from using it.

“If people don’t use it it becomes more isolated, and therefore more dangerous,” Ms Coughlan said.

“The more people on there the better, and the safer, it will be.”

Ms Coughlan, who is also a director of the Australian Cycle Alliance, recommended people using the track have some personal security measures in place.

She advised people let loved ones know when they might be home from using the track, or go with a friend, and to take a mobile phone.

Edward Hore, president of the Australian Cycle Alliance, said there was enough usage on the Fernleigh Track to justify some solar lights and entry point security cameras to help people feel safer.

“The other thing that’s really good in Victoria now is we have buzzers on posts – so as you’re walking along, if you are feeling uncomfortable, you push a button and the police are immediately notified as to where you are,” Mr Hore said.

“It makes a buzzing noise as well, so the person who is following knows that someone has been notified.

“Those are three ideas that could help make the Fernleigh Track great. It is such a magnificent place for people to walk and ride and do all the things they want to do, and it’s away from cars.”

Mr Hore said if people did have frightening incidents on the track, they needed to report them to police.

“If they are not reported, they just become ‘anecdata,’ and nothing changes,” Mr Hore said.

“People shouldn’t be alarmed, just aware. We’d like to see more people using the Fernleigh Track.”