Community
5 September, 2024
Call out to volunteers to help train young drivers
PCYC Queensland’s award-winning learning driver program improves road safety and increases opportunities for young people every week of the year.
During Queensland Road Safety Week it is calling out for more volunteers in its newest locations.
Braking the Cycle is now at Mossman thanks to $475,927 funding from the Department of Transport and Main Roads (TMR). PCYC Queensland currently delivers Braking the Cycle at 54 locations. Additional funding from TMR’s Leaner Driver Mentor Program grant funding is expected to help more than 800 young people obtain their licence in the next 12 months. PCYC Queensland is putting the call out for volunteer mentor drivers in these communities.
PCYC Queensland chief executive Phil Schultz said extended funding for Braking the Cycle was incredibly positive for young Queenslanders who faced difficulties in completing their 100 hours of supervised driving.
“Additional funding will help hundreds of young people to obtain their licence safely,” he said.
“A driving licence can make a huge difference to young people in rural areas where the ability to travel to work and study can increase employment and education opportunities as well as improving road safety outcomes. It also promotes positive interactions between participants and mentors who foster safe driving behaviours.
“Braking the Cycle has delivered 313,603 hours of supervised driving and assisted 5,504 participants to achieve their licence since the program’s inception in 2012.”
Braking the Cycle program manager Seevali Ratnakara said it was a rewarding way to make a real impact for local young people.
“We see our mentor drivers create amazing relationships with their learner drivers,” she said.
“Volunteering as a mentor driver is not only easy and enjoyable but incredibly fulfilling– it could be for just a few hours a week and you are helping to make your local community roads safer.”
Police Minister Mark Ryan said the scheme was another worthy example of how PCYC supported young people at a key moment in their lives.
“In many ways a driver’s licence is a vital ticket to adulthood and leading a satisfying and rewarding life,” he said.
“It’s significant also that PCYC has recognised that for some young people it can be challenging to have someone supervise them for the required 100 hours.
“Braking the Cycle ensures that fewer young people get left behind when it comes to getting their licence.
“I commend PCYC for the many ways they support young Queenslanders and in the case of the Braking the Cycle program, the effort PCYC dedicates to ensuring the next generation of drivers are given the right foundation to become a safe and responsible road user.”
