Bourke Street Car Line – Working Together for a Safe Dismissal in the Primary School

As we move through the first few weeks of the school year, afternoon routines begin to take shape for families, students and staff alike. The Bourke Street Car Line is a key part of our dismissal process and, when used as intended, allows pick-up to run smoothly, safely and efficiently for everyone.

With a shared understanding of expectations, and a little patience, we can establish positive routines early and ensure the Car Line remains a safe environment for students, staff and families each afternoon.

What helps the Car Line run well?

For a safe and efficient dismissal, we ask families to please note the following:

Pick-up times are staggered to support traffic flow:

Year 6 pick-up arrangements

To assist with traffic flow, Year 6 students are asked to be collected from Forbes Street where possible. This approach helps reduce congestion and supports a more efficient dismissal for all families.
Families are welcome to continue using Bourke Street if a Year 6 student has a younger sibling being collected from the Primary School.

• Remain in your vehicle at all times. Staff on duty will assist your daughter to her car and ensure a safe departure.
• Join the queue correctly from the northern end of Bourke Street. Double parking or cutting in on the Car Line is not permitted and causes significant disruption and creates safety concerns.
• Move forward in the queue as space becomes available. Keeping gaps to a minimum helps traffic move steadily.
• Display your daughter’s name sign clearly. If you need a replacement, please contact the Primary Office  
• Follow staff directions. Teachers on duty have a clear view of the overall flow and are best placed to guide vehicles safely.
• Encourage students to enter vehicles promptly. Students should enter from the kerb side with bags placed on the seat rather than in the boot.
• Minimise distractions. Avoid phone calls during Car Line time so your full attention remains on safety.
• Use the pedestrian crossing. Families arriving or leaving on foot are asked to use the Bourke Street pedestrian crossing. For safety reasons, please do not cross between vehicles.

We all share a responsibility in keeping dismissal arrangements efficient. A calm and consistent approach from families makes a significant difference. By following these expectations, we help maintain a safe environment for students, staff and the wider community.

If you have feedback or suggestions, we welcome your input as we continue to refine these arrangements together.

Thank you for your cooperation and patience as these routines become second nature across the year.

Gabriela Grocott
Manager of Primary Administration and Operations