By NATALIE GALLENTI
MANY of Melton’s young motorists would not be behind the wheel if it weren’t for the dedicated volunteers of the L2P program.
The program, sponsored by Melton City Council and Moorabool Shire Council in partnership with VicRoads, was first launched in Melton in 2009 and allows young adults aged between 16 and 20 years to gain access to a driving mentor in order in acquire their 120 hours of driving experience.
Co-ordinator of the Melton and Moorabool program Kim Leech said 44 licences had already been obtained thanks to the mentoring initiative and motorists who would not have had access to a car were now able to travel to work or school.
Kim said the mentor drivers only had to complete a short training course provided by VicRoads before being inducted into the program and could give as little as an hour a week to help youngsters in need. A fully fuelled car is provided.
And she said mentors came from all walks of life including police officers, council workers and SES volunteers.
“It is so rewarding when they get their licence,” she told Star.
“Road safety and helping young local disadvantaged learner drivers attain their required driving practice is the primary focus of the program.
“Volunteer supervising driver mentors come from all walks of life but share a common goal, helping our local youth and contributing to the safety of our roads.”
Long-time volunteer Joy Lawn has contributed over 500 hours to the program since becoming a mentor three years ago and has guided eight young people to successfully gaining their licence.
“There is a lot of satisfaction in helping the young ones and imparting your driving and road safety knowledge,” Joy said.
“Getting to know the young people and watching their confidence grow is very rewarding. One of my learners who is now licenced is looking forward to mentoring on the program herself. I would definitely encourage others to volunteer in the L2P program. An hour per week and an interest in young people is all you need.”
Melton police Inspector Stephen Mutton praised the program and said it was a great community initiative that not only provided access for teenagers who would not otherwise be able to have the required hours of practice, but also made the roads safer.
Anyone interested in becoming a mentor can contact Kim at L2P at Djerriwarrh Community and Education Services 8746 1000.
