Driving past a school during drop off and pick up, you may have seen a zebra try and cross the road, this one of your friendly South Canterbury Road Safety Coordinators and 2025 recipient of the Cedric Rogers Memorial Award.

Lucy Mehrtens was nominated for the award by Sam Sharland from Selwyn District Council for her dedication and innovative work, improving pedestrian safety around local schools in South Canterbury.

The award, named in memory of Cedric Rogers, a pioneering figure in New Zealand’s road safety history and is presented to individuals who have made a lasting impact on community well-being by advancing safer and more sustainable transport systems. This annual award is presented to a SASTA member who has shown individual achievement in their 'safe system' approach to road safety and / or sustainable transport work.

Lucy has played a pivotal role in transforming road safety across the Timaru District, increasing community partnerships in a ‘one together’ response which has increased public engagement with transport initiatives.

Since starting in the role back in 2023 Lucy has embraced the role of Zephyr the Zebra and teaching pupils how to cross the road safely, has a record breaking number of students committed to the SADD program in South Canterbury, relaunched driver revivers after a 13 year hiatus, and recently launched an Agricultural Campaign, a collab between Police, local contractors, FMG and councils to educate general public, farmers and contractors on key messages when you are towing/ following ag equipment on the road what to do.

Co-chair of the Safe and Sustainable Transport Association Ashley Beaton said Lucy’s Achievement reflects her commitment to creating safer and more sustainable transport environments.

“Her leadership, energy and collaborative spirit have inspired positive change in the community and set a benchmark for others in the sector,” she said.

“I enjoy seeing students, young drivers and community showing their passion and advocacy of road safety promotions within their school and wider community.

Lucy said is felt honoured to receive this award in recognition of the work she has done within her community and supporting other road safety coordinators around the country.

“In South Canterbury we are extremely lucky to have good relationships with key partners and emergency services which has extend and have further impacts for road safety in our community. When we all work together on road safety promotions and campaigns the community see this, and the message feels more validates.

“So if you see a zebra cross the road, wait until it gets to the other side please.”