City of Parramatta honours Oatlands victims

City of Parramatta Council is proposing to install a memorial to commemorate the four children who tragically lost their lives in a motor vehicle accident at Oatlands on 1 February.

At last night’s Meeting, Council offered its sympathies to the family and friends of siblings Antony, Angelina, and Sienna Abdallah, and their cousin Veronique Sakr, and resolved to consult with the families on an appropriate memorial.

“It was a horrific tragedy that shocked and saddened us all. Our hearts break at the terrible loss of young, innocent lives,” City of Parramatta Lord Mayor Cr Bob Dwyer said.

“The outpouring of support and tributes has been incredible. It reflects the profound impact that this tragedy has had, not only on the tight-knit Oatlands community but right across Australia. We would like to honour the lives of these beautiful children with a dedicated memorial.”

Following feedback from the community since the accident, Council will also introduce traffic-calming measures in the area.

These include the installation of a pedestrian guardrail along the section of Bettington Road where the incident occurred, and a roundabout at the intersection of York and Bettington Roads.

“While police have not identified the road condition to be a factor in this incident, Council has listened to the local community,” Cr Dwyer said.

“These measures have been identified by Council as appropriate ways to help reinforce the area’s 50km/h speed limit and ease community concerns about pedestrian safety along Bettington Road.”

Council will consult the community about the installation of a roundabout, which will be subject to approval through the Parramatta Traffic Committee.