The circumstances of the 50-year-old Canberra man’s (pictured with partner Melissa Pearce) death has been distressing for his family, council staff and management and the Mayor.

As much as the inquest has explored who knew what and when about Oallen Ford Road’s condition, ultimately it was about a man’s life.

Mr Hughes, a passionate motorcyclist and outdoors man, was a loving son, brother, partner and stepfather. But after setting out on a beautiful sunny day on October 4, 2015 for a coast ride, he lost his life after striking a pothole on a road less than a month old.

It is starkly confronting to look across a courtroom and see a grieving family.

The council has been upfront throughout, acknowledging failures. Anything less in the face of police evidence would have exacerbated the family’s grief.

Operations director Matt O’Rourke has been an impressive witness, admitting some eight systemic breakdowns were “a recipe for disaster.” He has clearly carried a heavy burden but it was not his fault; it was an organisational failure, some of which was outside his control.

The inquest has exposed serious system flaws that combined so tragically on that day. But we believe the council is genuine in its current and ongoing reforms to ensure it never happens again.

The whole community will welcome improved reporting and monitoring of road condition, better complaint handling and enhanced internal communication.

We rely on councils to keep our roads safe. As Hughes family solicitor Ian Bradfield said, it is a “fundamental responsibility.” The community is the council’s eyes and ears and potholes must be taken seriously.

Local government is intrinsically challenged by funds but to its credit, Goulburn Mulwaree Council has upped its rural road budget significantly in recent years.   

One only has to attend an outreach meeting to know this money is never enough. But as this inquest has exposed, immediate hazards must be addressed quickly.

Ultimately the inquiry will cost the community in legal bills and most likely, compensation.

It’s been a hard and sad lesson for all. It won’t bring back James Hughes but it will effect necessary change.