Learner driver program rolls into town

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.

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, and 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.

A further $2000 has been donated from Campaspe Shire Council, through Emergency Recovery Victoria’s Recovery Hubs Program.

Mr Butler has enjoyed his involvement in the program. He has three students with whom he goes driving 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.

Ms Harris encourages new mentors to join the program and drivers who are interested to reach out to CCLLEN.

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.