Geelong council has put out the call for experienced drivers to volunteer for the TAC L2P program.
With a volunteer shortfall in Corio, Lara, Norlane and North Geelong, local learners are waiting up to six months longer than drivers in training in other parts of Geelong to gain valuable experience on the road.
The free, community-based program matches learner drivers aged between 16 and 21 with a vehicle and a fully licensed mentor, helping them become safe and confident drivers.
Driver mentor Sylvia Brown said becoming a mentor had helped her find greater purpose in her life.
“Like in most things, when you invest your time and efforts into something you believe in, the rewards are tenfold,” Sylvia said.
“I have always enjoyed spending time with youth but being able to help them in a more tangible way and see the benefits of their learning and the development of their skills in driving is so rewarding.”
In the past year, 76 young drivers have passed their probationary licence test thanks to 110 volunteer mentors across Geelong.
Deputy mayor Ron Nelson said mentors needed to commit one to two hours a week to the L2P program.
“It’s vital that we increase volunteer numbers for the 3214, 3215 and 3212 postcodes so that we can reduce wait times experienced by young people living in those areas who are trying to access the program,” he said.
“We don’t want to disadvantage these young people because of where they live.”
Contact L2P@geelongcity.vic.gov.au to find out how to become an L2P driving mentor.
