Connect - 30 October 2020

Installing hi-tech safety

The Regency Road to Pym Street Project is gearing up for the installation of Intelligent Traffic Systems over the coming weeks.

The ITS is central to the South Australian road network, delivering images and data that help us to manage traffic flow and respond to conditions. This includes the use of detector loops to count traffic, CCTV for video security surveillance and electronic signs that display information and road-use guidance for motorists.

Individual components of the R2P equipment are now being tested before further testing as an integrated system before installation. This is important work and an exciting indicator of the great progress the R2P Project is making.

Inspecting ITS cabinets at the Ventia workshop.

Disability Access and Inclusion Plan

I’m delighted that the department this week released its first Disability Access and Inclusion Plan.

This important work details how we will contribute to an inclusive and accessible community for all, with consideration to the diverse work we do and our community impact, as well as our role as a significant South Australian employer.

Implementation of the plan starts immediately, and will be coordinated and captured by our Disability Access and Inclusion Team.

This Plan will be reviewed in 2022 and may be updated as we progress, and we welcome feedback and comments from staff and other stakeholders at any time.

Bringing a fresh touch

More great work has been delivered through our Rail Care team, this time at the Seaton Park railway station.

The station has been transformed with new artwork by local artist Steve Glass, together with landscaped gardens aimed at attracting native bees and butterflies, and new fencing made from recycled plastic.

The station’s upgrade has received great feedback from the community, with two new Rail Care volunteers signed up and eager to take care of the new gardens. Thanks to all involved.

Gardens and artwork at Seaton Park Railway Station.

Shining up with 5S

Our Department has gone through significant change over the past year, and we are now embedding a more structured approach to managing our workspaces and work outcomes.

The 5S system is being rolled out across the department to improve and streamline process, create and maintain a clean and orderly workplace and identify work practices that can be standardised beyond COVID-19 in a move to sustaining a healthy work culture.

Friday Flashback

Below is a photo taken at Port MacDonnell in 1910 of the crew of a newly launched lifeboat named Undaunted, wearing their life jackets and displaying two ring lifebuoys.

South Australia’s lifeboat service was established in 1859. The Port MacDonnell station that this crew and boat belonged to was established in 1861, making it one of the oldest stations in the state. Additional lifeboats were also located at a number of other places along our coastline during this era, including Robe, the Murray Mouth, Beachport and Semaphore.

According the State Library SA records, the Port MacDonnell lifeboat crew had a reputation for being particularly resilient mariners and made a number of difficult rescues.

Several members of this crew also possess some very impressive moustaches. In light of the beginning of Movember next week, these 1910 examples may provide some inspiration for staff taking part in the worthy cause!

SLSA B 11954