Lee Kernaghan’s music epitomises the spirit of the Australian bush and his latest safety
message could be a life-saver for Aussie farmers.
Lee’s songs are modern-day anthems for Australians living and working on the land and his
tours have raised millions of dollars to support rural and regional areas.
Already a country music legend, Lee is also adding quad bike safety ambassador to his
credentials.
This time Lee is making farm safety his number-one priority, joining forces with the Federal
Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) in advocating for improved safety on all-terrain
vehicles (ATVs), or quad bikes as they are commonly known.
On stage Lee always wears his famous Akubra hat; but when riding off-road he always wears
a helmet and he is encouraging all ATV users to do the same.
“When using ATVs, it’s very important that a few safety measures are taken,” Lee says.
“Helmets are the most effective safety device for ATV riders; I would encourage everyone to
wear one.”
His safety message doesn’t stop there. Lee is also a strong advocate for rider training to
ensure sound techniques and safe use of ATVs.
“Training really is essential and I encourage all riders to undertake a training course,” he
says. “I’ve completed the ATV industry’s online safety course and there’s some very good
information on riding techniques, but more importantly, there are some great tips on how
to avoid the more common mistakes and difficult situations that people get into when riding
ATVs.”
Lee also supports the FCAI campaign to introduce new rules regulating who can ride quad
bikes.
“You can also make things safer by not carrying passengers on the ATV racks, and ensuring
that children under 16 are not allowed on full size ATVs.”
The FCAI is concerned that there is an ill-informed rush to install Crush Protection Devices
(CPDs) on ATVs without the supporting evidence to substantiate their use.
The ACCC is pushing for mandatory CPDs on ATVs but the industry research and a rider
survey show they can cause as many injuries as they may prevent.
FCAI ATV safety expert Mark Collins stated: “Coronial findings show that measures such as
mandatory helmets for all ATV riders, banning children aged under 16 from riding adult
ATVs, and banning passengers from riding single-seat ATVs can reduce the number of ATV fatalities by over 50%. These known safety practices are much more effective than fitting a
Crush Protection Device, which has an equal chance of harming as it does of helping a
rider,” he said.
Lee is a long time advocate and supporter of rural and regional Australia. His Pass The Hat
tours, Spirit Of The Bush drought relief concerts and Farmhand initiatives have raised
millions of dollars for country Australia.
Lee said, “If there is one message I want people to hear it’s to look after yourself, your
family and mates and make safety your number one priority when riding ATVs.”
For more safety information and tips on ATV use, go to: www.atvsafety.com.au.