Guiding little steps

By Kelly Carmody

May 7, 2024

For 21 years, in rain, hail or sunshine, morning and afternoon, and five times a week, Liz Capuano, 67, has been the dedicated school crossing supervisor for Murchison Primary School.

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Last week, as her efforts were celebrated, Murchison families and school staff took to the school’s social media to express their gratitude.

“Thank you, Liz, for your ongoing commitment to the safety of our students and for the 21 years of cheerful smiles,” Murchison Primary School principal Michelle Duke said.

“Congratulations Liz, what a lucky community we have been for all these years, you kept our kids safe and now they are grown with their own children,” someone commented.

“Congratulations Lizzie, what a wonderful accomplishment,” another expressed.

Reflecting on the milestone, Ms Capuano said she had countless special memories and humbly shared that her commitment stemmed from the school children, who made every moment worthwhile.

“When I started, my eldest child was attending high school in Mooroopna and my youngest was here at the primary school,” she said.

“I had to come into town for my eldest to get the school bus, so I thought, why not do this while I am waiting for her, and it’s been really good.”

Admitting cheekily that she loved having school holidays off, Ms Capuano also said she thoroughly enjoyed watching the children grow over the years.

“Watching the kids evolve and their confidence grow over the years is very special,” Ms Capuano said.

“There is a little boy who crosses the road at the moment, and he always gives me a little flower, it’s so sweet.

“But I don’t have favourites, all the kids over all the years are great in their own ways.”

Beyond her role as crossing supervisor, Ms Capuano has actively campaigned for enhanced road safety measures within the town.

Witnessing numerous car and truck accidents near her crossing zones, she petitioned for reduced speed limits at the town’s entry points.

Her efforts paid off last year, resulting in speed reductions of 40km/h being implemented at all entry points into Murchison.

“I’ve got a duty of care to keep these kids safe, and to keep me safe too,” she said.

“I’ve seen some big accidents but they haven’t stopped me from doing this, although the hail almost has, that’s not particularly fun. The job needs to be done no matter the weather; kids still have to get to school and home safely.

“After doing it for so long you get to know what to wear; I have some really good coats.”

According to Ms Capuano, her secret to her continued role has been due to having a good attitude, while keeping her hands and mind busy.

“You have to keep busy in life. Not all bad comes from bad and eventually everything works out,” Ms Capuano said.

“I have got five grandkids that keep me busy, and I feel like I have a full life but it’s up to us to balance our life and it’s a good day if you’re standing vertical.

“I’ll be doing this until I can’t. Every day is a memorable one, they all stand out.”

Ms Capuano also conveyed an important reminder.

“Stay safe on the roads, everyone. Respect the speed limits, watch and slow down in the school zones. Accidents happen and in a split-second things can change. We must keep our kids safe.”