129th student passes the test as L2P nears 10 years
The Baw Baw L2P Learner driver mentor program has been operating for almost 10 years.
This month learner Zoe became the 129th young driver to gain her licence. All young drivers are learning road rules, driving skills, speed control and safe practises with the supervision of trained mentors and regular lessons and assessments from the RACV drive school instructors.
Passing the licence test is always a challenge and the learners are able to demonstrate their skills during the VicRoads test so that first time success is sitting at 83 per cent. This is the feedback that mentors are given and justifies the time, patience and persistence which they volunteer.
As an example of local support, a local real estate agent has given new signage for the permanent new office at 88 Smith Street Warragul, making it much easier to find the L2P office and coordinator Beth Carr.
Learners and mentors use the office for discussion, reviewing and reinforcement of correct driving procedures via short videos on the computer or from recordings via the Drouin Lions Club-sponsored dashcam.
South Gippsland L2P has booked in mentor training in Leongatha on Friday July 20. Possible volunteers from the Baw Baw Shire region are welcome to be part of this training. Coordinator Beth Carr is happy to discuss this option and welcomes enquiries at the L2P office.
Beth said she is constantly looking for volunteers.
“Because our Baw Baw L2P mentors take regular holidays both interstate and overseas, it would be terrific to have another 10 people undertake the training next month.
“Sharing the time needed to cover the four stages of driving is rewarding and having several mentors with the same learner means further experience and reinforcement of safe driving,” she said. “Age is not a barrier. “Mentors range from 24 – 76 years old. “I hope there are some good folk out there who can take up this challenge.
“I can be contacted personally or via info@bawbawl2p.org.”
Baw Baw L2P Inc operates seven days a week. The two cars are safely parked at Warragul Police Station.
The committee works tirelessly to maintain and strengthen the program and mentors come from a wide range of occupations. All are wanting to give back to the community and stay connected to young people.
For extra information the public can go to the website Bawbawl2p.org, click on the mentor’s tab, then ‘how to apply’ or look at the videos. A mentor and past learner have constructed the website, is easy to understand and gives clear information.
Early in February 2019 the 10th year anniversary will be celebrated at Peppers Café and Spud Bar. Learners and mentors are looking forward to this achievement. Baw Baw L2P has grown from the first 15 learners and 15 mentors, but the same aim remains: to have a safer generation of drivers.
Past and present participants will come together to hear “where I am now” stories, inspire current learners to continue with their commitment, and give the committee the opportunity to acknowledge and thank sponsors and supporters over the past 10 years, including VicRoads, TAC, VicPolice and other special guests.