Vanessa is back to promote road safety

The Vanessa Bus helps young people to understand their options while working towards no lives lost on Victorian roads. Photo: TAC.

Vanessa may be back with a brand new look, but she still has the same message for young drivers.

The Transport Accident Commission’s Vanessa program is heading to the Torquay coastline with some very important advice on “judgment free” road safety.

Ran by the TAC, the Vanessa program was designed to arm young people with the knowledge to make good decisions in crucial moments.

The team uses their fleet to speak to youths in a non-threatening way, discussing road safety topics from drink and drug taking to eliminating distractions while behind the wheel.

TAC’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Jo Whyte said Big V is an important channel to communicate with new and young drivers.

“We know there are a range of factors that make young drivers far more vulnerable to crashes and injury, which is why Vanessa is so important in helping young drivers to make informed choices.

“We want them to embrace a culture of looking out for mates and planning ahead before a long drive,” she said.

Despite undergoing a facelift, the program is still appealing to the current generation of young drivers around how to keep themselves and their mates safe on the roads while working towards zero lives lost.

The fleet features three 5-star ANCAP rated vehicles that will be visible across the Victorian coast this summer, including the infamous ‘Big V’ bus which will be located in Torquay this weekend.

Usually featuring a ball pit, Big V has undergone a CovidSafe procedure and will instead be offering a nostalgic milk bar for the ultimate chill out zone.

While enjoying the space Vanessa staff will encourage young people to consider how they will get back to their accommodation safely after a night out or a few days out partying.

Ms Whyte said Vanessa will remind people of the impact any level of alcohol with have on their ability to drive and to consider other options to keep partying and driving separate.

“If you’re planning on travelling around the state this summer, plan ahead, get plenty of rest before driving, or consider leaving the car at home and take advantage of the public transport and taxi options available,” she said.

Big V will be at the Elephant Walk park in Torquay on Friday from 2pm to 6pm and Lake Pertobe, near Beach Kiosk on Saturday from 2pm to 6pm.

To find out more, visit the Vanessa Facebook page or www.vanessabus.com.au.