Beloved Crossing Guard’s High-Fives Banned: Community Fights Back Against Overzealous Rule

In an unexpected and controversial decision, a well-loved crossing guard at Mount Dandenong Primary School in Greater Melbourne has been prohibited from giving high-fives to students, following a single parent’s complaint. John Goulden, a cherished figure in the community, was recently honored as one of Victoria’s top crossing guards. Yet, the Yarra Ranges Council has now restricted him from initiating any physical contact with the children he helps cross the street daily, citing concerns over “unnecessary physical contact.”

For many students, Goulden’s high-fives were not just a morning greeting—they were a source of joy and encouragement, an integral part of their day that set a positive tone for school. Parents and students alike viewed this simple gesture as a symbol of warmth and connection in an increasingly isolated world. However, the council’s response to the complaint has ignited a wave of frustration and disbelief within the community.

Rohan Bradley, a parent at the school and a strong advocate for Goulden, has taken matters into his own hands by organizing a petition to reverse the council’s decision. Bradley believes that the high-fives represent much more than a physical gesture; they embody the unique community spirit that Mount Dandenong Primary is known for. “John’s high-fives in the morning and afternoon have become a tradition that many children look forward to,” Bradley stated. “It’s not just about a simple high-five; it’s about preserving our unique community’s spirit.”

The petition has quickly gained traction, gathering over 500 signatures as both parents and students rally to support Goulden. For many, the ban feels like a disproportionate response to a harmless act of kindness, especially given Goulden’s recent recognition for his contributions to community safety. “His infectious joy leaves a lasting impression on students and parents,” Bradley added. “With our children’s happiness and well-being hanging in the balance, we need to take action.”

The Yarra Ranges Council, in their defense, pointed to internal policies and Victorian standards that discourage any form of unnecessary physical contact between adults and children in a school setting. According to the council, these guidelines are designed to protect children’s safety and ensure that all interactions are appropriate. However, this explanation has done little to calm the anger brewing among the community members, who see the ban as an overreach that threatens to strip away the sense of connection that Goulden has fostered.

Goulden himself has become an emblem of positivity within the Mount Dandenong community. Known for his bright smile and cheerful demeanor, he has transformed the mundane task of crossing the road into a moment of genuine human connection. His recognition as Region Four Crossing Supervisor of the Year further solidifies his role as a beloved figure who goes above and beyond in his duties. Despite this, the council’s ruling now casts a shadow over his daily interactions with the students, leaving many to wonder how something so innocuous could be deemed inappropriate.

The controversy highlights a broader issue that many communities face: the balance between protecting children and maintaining the human elements that make a community strong. In a world where legal and bureaucratic concerns often take precedence over common sense, gestures like Goulden’s high-fives are increasingly at risk of being lost. This incident serves as a poignant reminder of how a single complaint can trigger a cascade of regulations that, while well-intentioned, may ultimately do more harm than good.

As the petition continues to grow, it’s clear that the parents and students of Mount Dandenong Primary School are not willing to let this decision stand without a fight. For them, this is not just about the right to give a high-five; it’s about preserving the values of kindness, community, and mutual respect that are at the heart of their school. The outpouring of support for Goulden is a testament to the impact that one person can have on a community, and it underscores the importance of standing up for what matters.

The situation is still unfolding, and it remains to be seen whether the Yarra Ranges Council will reconsider its decision in light of the overwhelming community response. But one thing is clear: the people of Mount Dandenong are united in their desire to keep their community spirit alive, and they are ready to take a stand to ensure that simple, positive interactions like a high-five are not lost to overregulation.

In an era where genuine human connection is becoming increasingly rare, the fight to preserve Goulden’s high-fives is more than just a local issue—it’s a symbol of the broader struggle to maintain humanity in a world that often prioritizes rules over relationships. The outcome of this battle will not only affect the students of Mount Dandenong Primary but also set a precedent for how communities across the globe navigate the delicate balance between safety and connection.