Mr Milner is also a member of Amber Community, an organisation that supports those affected by road trauma with free counselling.
It also holds road trauma awareness seminars.
Mr Milner is also a member of the Goulburn Valley Road Safety Committee, a group of representatives of local government, Victoria Police and road safety support persons in the region.
“My major concern is that many families will be missing loved ones due to these fatalities,” Mr Milner said.
“No-one should have their lives impacted by road trauma.”
As of Thursday, December 4, the total number of lives lost on Victorian roads in 2025 reached 269.
Mr Milner said there were many reasons for the number of deaths, with driver choices being the main concern.
“Those include the choice to drive when fatigued, speeding, even just a little over, driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs and being distracted by phones or other things in the vehicle,” he said.
“Driving without consideration of road conditions when the roads have varying surface conditions, or the weather conditions are poor, may also lead to crashes with grave results.
“The consequences of bad choices often leads to lives lost or serious injury resulting in loss of quality of life.
“Don’t let this holiday season end in tragedy; plan ahead, slow down and stay alert.
“Buckle up every trip, every time — seat belts save lives.
“Drivers also need to stop and relax at least every two hours, and take a nap if tired.”
As a volunteer SES member of the Benalla unit for the past 17 years, and deputy controller of the Hume Region unit, Mr Milner has witnessed first-hand the ripple effect after a crash, and how many people are affected.
“Often, as a result of serious crashes, emergency service first responders may encounter the most distressing scenes,” he said.
“That includes members of Victoria Police, SES, Ambulance Victoria, CFA and those who stop to assist before the emergency services arrive suffer.
“The ripple effect of a crash can carry through these persons into the community.
“Especially as we head into the busy Christmas season, staying safe on our roads is more important than ever to continue to reduce the lives lost.
“I am asking motorists to look out for each other and drive safely.”
Amber Community offers free information and counselling to people impacted by a road Crash. Call 1300 367 797 or visit ambercommunity.org.au to find out more.
Anyone interested in joining SES can inquire via ses.vic.gov.au
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