Campaspe Cohuna Local Learning and Employment Network has extended the TAC L2P Learner Driver Program to cover Rochester, Lockington and Elmore.
The program currently supports learner drivers aged 16 to 24 without access to a supervising driver or vehicle to gain driving experience.
It has operated in Echuca and Kyabram for more than 10 years, allowing young people to gain 120 hours of supervised driving to sit their probationary drivers test and ultimately attain their licence.
The program provides free vehicle access and driving lessons from trained volunteer mentors so learners can gain confidence and skills in a safe environment.
Rochester Secondary College students Layla Ali and Abbey Ferrari are two of six active drivers involved in the expanded program, guided by mentor Paul Butler.
“It’s been really great because I can’t drive at home,” Layla said.
“Paul has taught me heaps of things to be comfortable and confident in myself with driving.”
The students are enjoying the opportunity to drive and have picked up skills along the way.
“I didn’t really have anyone to drive with,” Abbey said.
“The program has been a really good help to get my hours and up and help me drive from here to there.
“I love driving. I could drive all day, every day, if I could and I can’t wait to get my licence.”
Rochester Secondary College principal Matt Koutroubas is delighted to see students getting involved with L2P, particularly those who may otherwise go without the skills.
“We’re very excited and grateful to be involved with the program,” he said.
“It provides opportunities for students that may not have those opportunities to learn how to drive and gain the skills that they require to be safe on the road.
“It also provides an opportunity for the volunteers to link in with younger members of the community.”
Mr Koutroubas is grateful to Campaspe Shire Council and Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester, who have provided financial support to the program.
TAC provides core funding for L2P, however learners and mentors rely on additional contributions from communities.
Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester has provided a $5000 grant to the program, which senior branch manager James Pietromonaco said the bank was happy to donate.
“Fifty per cent of our profits we aim to give back to organisations,” he said.
“This was one of the programs that came up and we were really happy to support.
“This is why we go to work, this is what we talk to our staff about. It’s not just about what we’re doing as a bank, but it’s the effect it can have on local communities.
“We get to see it first hand and this is the best part of our job.
“Support the local branches.”
A further $2000 has been donated from Campaspe Shire Council, through Emergency Recovery Victoria’s Recovery Hubs Program.
Mentor Paul Butler has enjoyed his involvement in the program. He has three students who he goes driving with every Monday.
He has seen positive impacts on his life and on the drivers’.
“It gets the kids on the go, it keeps me out of the house,” he said.
“We just drive around and it’s quite a rapport you build up with the kids. It’s interesting hearing things from the younger generation, it makes you think differently.
“I find it mutually benefiting ... it’s a chance not just to drive, but you get to speak and connect and go for a drive.
“Their confidence grows with every lesson and you can feel it in their demeanour.”
L2P co-ordinator Nikki Harris is grateful for the contributions of volunteers like Mr Butler, as well as the financial support from the program’s sponsors to bring L2P to more young people.
“We are thrilled to be able to offer access to the TAC L2P Learner Driver Program within these smaller communities in our area thanks to the incredible support from Community Bank Elmore, Lockington and Rochester and the Campaspe Shire Council,” she said.
“This expansion will provide more young people with the critical skills and opportunities they need to succeed.
“Having a driver's licence opens doors to employment, education and greater independence and we are committed to making these opportunities accessible to those who need them most.”
Ms Harris encourages new mentors to join the program and drivers who are interested to reach out to CCLLEN.
“We're inviting new volunteer mentors to join the TAC L2P program who can play a vital role in supporting young people to drive safely and reduce crashes, injuries and fatalities among young drivers,” she said.
For more information about the TAC L2P Learner Driver Program and how to get involved, visit www.ccllen.com.au or phone Nikki Harris on 0424 478 014.