Plaques a reminder

The life-saving work of the late Fred Ogle
has been recognised with the unveiling of two plaques in his honour.

A ceremony took place at the Uretiti SH1 fatigue stop during the first week of Bike Wise month to acknowledge the achievements of the passionate cyclist, who died after being struck by a vehicle while cycling in 2008.

Family, friends and supporters of Mr Ogle gathered at the Uretiti fatigue stop, overlooking the Department of Conservation recreation reserve where two plaques were unveiled by Bream Bay ward councillors Shelley Deeming, Phil Halse and widow Jan Ogle.

The plaques are mounted into concrete picnic tables and read: "Congratulations on taking a safe break and having time to enjoy the views. In recognition of the dedication, commitment and countless hours Fred Ogle gave to improving road safety in Northland, this interpretive plaque is provided by Road Safety Association Inc."

Mrs Ogle was pleased to see her late husband’s work continuing on.

"It is wonderful to see his road safety efforts acknowledged and the community coming together," says Mrs Ogle.

Whangarei and Kaipara road safety co-
ordinator Gillian Archer says the Uretiti
fatigue stop is a per-
fect place for the plaques because the rest stop was achieved through Mr Ogle’s work, which will continue on with the picnic tables for commuters to rest and take in the beautiful view.

She says Mr Ogle brought together a variety of people, groups and organisations to make his road safety goals a reality and this was shown by the large number of police, councillors, road safety groups and cyclists who turned out to last week’s ceremony.  "I will remember Fred forever and his cheeky smile," says Ms Archer.

The ceremony also marked the start of Bike Wise month – a time when everyone is encouraged to get on their bike.

- © Fairfax NZ News