Having successfully partnered with Rushworth P-12 College to support three local learner drivers to achieve their required 120 hours of driving practice, the CCLLEN TAC L2P program now has a wait list.
The CCLLEN says the biggest challenge to the Rushworth-based program is the willingness of local volunteers to become mentors.
“Having a licence in regional Victoria is a critical passport to work, education and connecting with people,” CCLLEN executive officer Jane Reid said.
“Not all learner drivers can access a car or a fully licensed driver to supervise them.
“We have young drivers who need support, and we need people who can contribute an hour or two a week to help.”
The program provides local learner drivers with a suitable car, a mentor to drive with and up to seven lessons with a driving instructor paid for.
Mentors receive training from TAC-qualified instructors and full support from the CCLLEN as the region’s program provider.
Volunteer mentors must be more than 21 years old, interested in road safety and can commit one to two hours a week to help a young person get their licence.
The volunteer mentors must hold a full, current Victorian driver’s licence.
The CCLLEN TAC L2P program will match the volunteer mentor with a learner driver and provide regular access to a learner-friendly car.
Rushworth P-12 College can also see the benefits to young people.
“The L2P Program has been invaluable for our college and the community,” Rushworth P-12 College VCE co-ordinator Curtis McDonald said.
“It has not only given students an opportunity to learn new skills, but it is putting safe drivers on our roads.”
If you can help out a young person in Rushworth with a few hours a week of your time so that they can have the benefits of a driver’s licence, contact the CCLLEN TAC L2P program by emailing L2P@ccllen.com.au or calling 5482 6055.
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