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A turning point for young drivers: Cool Heads program returns

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The program includes firsthand stories of road trauma, such as those from Shepparton Search and Rescue Squad.

The Cool Heads young driver program is gearing up for another lifesaving session.

Hosted at Riverlinks Eastbank in Shepparton, the innovative program held by Victoria Police, in partnership with Greater Shepparton City Council, returns on Wednesday, July 24.

Engaging and informative, it provides young drivers and their guardians with crucial insights into safe driving practices, emphasising the real-life consequences of reckless driving.

Undoubtedly, Cool Heads will leave a lasting impression on its participants.

It offers a unique opportunity to hear firsthand stories of road trauma from various perspectives, including emergency service workers, former offending drivers, magistrates and even victims of road accidents.

Spanning two hours, these sessions are not for the faint of heart.

They employ a mix of vivid visuals and compelling stories to convey the stark realities of road accidents.

The program’s objective is clear: to foster a generation of young drivers who are not only aware of the consequences of their actions on the road but are also equipped with the knowledge needed to make mindful decisions behind the wheel.

Over the years, Cool Heads has achieved remarkable success, engaging over 7000 young individuals and their families.

Its influence has even extended to the courtroom, with referrals from the legal system aiming to rehabilitate young driving offenders through the powerful messages conveyed in these sessions.

Such initiatives serve as a beacon of hope, guiding youth towards safer driving practices.

“This fantastic initiative has been running in Greater Shepparton for over 15 years,” City of Greater Shepparton Mayor Shane Sali said.

“It costs nothing to attend, and it may save young drivers’ lives or the lives of family and friends.

“Council has received lots of positive feedback for the Cool Heads program in the past, so I encourage people to sign up and participate.”

With the support of the Shepparton community and the dedication of all involved in the program, the road ahead looks promising for the next generation of drivers and their parents.

This Cool Heads session will be held on Wednesday, July 24, from 7pm to 9pm at Riverlinks Eastbank, 70 Welsford St, Shepparton.

Bookings are required for this free event.

To register, visit https://tinyurl.com/2cxfkfnu

For further inquiries, contact Leading Senior Constable Mitchell Bull at mitchell.bull@police.vic.gov.au or call 5820 5777.