Driver mentors sought in north

FULLY licensed drivers in Geelong’s northern suburbs are being encouraged to volunteer and assist with the TAC L2P Program.

The City of Greater Geelong is on the hunt for drivers over the age of 21 from the 3214, 3215 and 3212 postcodes to help support young people to drive safely and achieve their P plates.

The L2P program currently has a volunteer shortfall in the northern suburbs, with local learner drivers waiting up to six months longer than those in other suburbs to gain experience behind the wheels.

Driver mentors will receive a full day of training from the Department of Transport and Planning, with the next session to be held next month.

Corio Ward councillor Anthony Aitken said the program gave young people independence and freedom when they achieve their Ps.

“This is a chance to offer a young person a safe and supportive environment while they’re in the driver’s seat.

“Our driver mentors are a highly valued part of this community-based program that helps to reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities among young drivers.”

Last year, 110 volunteers across Greater Geelong contributed to 76 drivers passing their probationary licence test.

A total of 621 local drivers have become P-platers in the program’s 16 years of operation.

Driver mentor Sylvia Brown said she became a volunteer at a time in her life when she was looking for purpose again.

“Like in most things, when you invest your time and efforts into something you believe in, the rewards are tenfold.

“I have always enjoyed spending time with youth but being able to help them in a more tangible way and see the benefits of their learning and the development of their skills in driving is so rewarding.

“It’s easy to fit into your life but you do need to be committed to allowing enough time for a drive session each week and to see a young person through to the achievement of their licence.”

If you want to help a young person grow and gain new skills, email [email protected]