Newcastle Knights winger James McManus visited 150 school children at Charlestown South Public School this week, as part of the 2014 Aurizon Rail Safety Program.
McManus is an Aurizon Rail Safety Ambassador, a role he has proudly undertaken since 2012, during which time he has visited schools throughout Newcastle and the Hunter.
The thirty minute Rail Safety presentation is delivered to students in years three through to six and includes key rail safety messages such as the dangers of playing on or near train tracks, the importance of using marked crossings and to not take shortcuts when it comes to safety.
The program, which is now in its third year, has visited 65 schools and reached over 8,000 students.
Knights players regularly attend the school presentations and help reinforce what could easily be a ‘life saving’ message to the younger members of the communities.
"It’s really positive that Aurizon is educating children about the importance of Rail Safety," McManus said.
"Living in Newcastle and training in Mayfield, I know many local schools are located near train tracks, so I enjoy getting out and visiting schools and encouraging the students to be safe."
The Aurizon Rail Safety Program will engage over 10,000 students before it concludes for 2014 at the end of Term 3, which is an immensely pleasing result for Aurizon and the Newcastle Knights.
