TeenSafe Moruya is helping to create a brighter future for the local community and making a difference at a grassroots level, in part, thanks to funding from IMB Bank Community Foundation.
A group of local teens were put through the course for L plate and P plate drivers this morning at Moruya Speedway Complex.
Teensafe has been operating its training courses for over 20 years.
Working with trained instructors in a safe and controlled environment, teenagers are provided with a safe driving experience and behind-the-wheel education through a combination of practical (80%) and theoretical (20%) learning. Areas covered include safe acceleration and braking, car maintenance, blind spots, steering, attitude and behaviour, stopping distances, impacts of peer pressure and the effects of drugs and alcohol.
The course is run by Gary Smith, TeenSafe Manager, with Surfair Motor Sports Club and The Bay Beginners Driving School.
For further info and registration form, go to www.teensafemoruya.org
Funding received in 2021 was to support the upkeep of their vehicle fleet used for training and help them continue to deliver the program.
Community groups, charities and not-for-profits are encouraged to apply for the 2022 round of funding for their projects at www.imb.com.au/community before 15 July 2022.
The TeenSafe program commenced in 1999 as a request from members of the local community to provide young people with information and practical experiences in safe driving. 'L' and 'P' plate drivers develop driving skills in a controlled environment and under the supervision of trained instructors. Their aim is to give 'L' and 'P' plate drivers basic driving skills and experiences in a safe and controlled environment. The courses are held over 1 day 10am-3pm with a maximum of 6-7 students. The program consists of both theory and practical elements and teaches basic skills as well as safety aspects of driving. It is a detailed presentation teaching driving skills in a fun, positive and safe manner with emphasis being placed on slowing down, hazard perception and the consequences of driving under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Tuition is on a 'one to one' basis in the vehicles - all supplied by TeenSafe. Approximately 85% of the course consists of actual driving time and students are able to concentrate on basic driving skills without the added distraction of normal road traffic. Vehicle maintenance and safety checks are demonstrated and discussed. Volunteers are always being sought to assist in all aspects of the organisation of TeenSafe Courses, and all training will be provided for prospective volunteers. If you enjoy driving and inter-acting with young people volunteering with TeenSafe could be for you. Teensafe welcomes mature licenced drivers to help out for a day every couple of months by sitting in the passenger seat while a student drives, or by helping anytime with admin or car maintenance. Teensafe have a fleet of cars at Moruya Speedway. Gary Smith, Teensafe Manager says "If we can help teenagers drive safely, then the roads are safer for all of us"
