Central Grampians LLEN has upgraded its TAC L2P Program vehicle in St Arnaud thanks to a generous grant from the Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud (Bendigo Bank).
The bank provided a community grant of $18,986 to allow Central Grampians LLEN to replace its older model Toyota Yaris with a new Mazda CX-3.
Central Grampians LLEN Executive Officer, Jane Moriarty said the organisation was grateful for the financial support provided by Bendigo Bank.
“We would like to acknowledge the Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud for its valuable contribution to this important program,” Ms Moriarty said.
“Central Grampians LLEN relies on community support to deliver the TAC L2P Program across Ararat Rural City, Northern Grampians Shire and Pyrenees Shire. Grants like this help us ensure we have safe, modern vehicles for our young learner drivers and their mentors to practice in.”
Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud Executive Officer, Julie Driscoll said the bank was proud to be able to give back to the St Arnaud community.
“We are delighted to play a part in assisting the region’s youth. We are proud that the car used in the amazing L2P Program was funded by the Community Bank,” Ms Driscoll said.
“I encourage everyone to support the Community Bank Avoca, Maryborough and St Arnaud as the more you bank with us, the more we are able to give back and support our wonderful community.”
The TAC L2P Program assists young learner drivers who have limited access to a supervising driver or vehicle to gain the 120 hours of driving required to apply for a probationary licence.
Learners between 16 and 21 years old, and in some circumstances up to the age of 23, are matched with a fully licensed volunteer driver and practice vehicle to help them gain valuable driving experience in all conditions.
St Arnaud’s L2P vehicle is based at St Arnaud Secondary College and is used by students enrolled in the program, as well as young people who no longer attend school. Several St Arnaud Secondary College staff have been trained as mentors, alongside members of the community.
Ms Moriarty said demand for the TAC L2P Program is currently at an all time high, and Central Grampians LLEN is desperately seeking more volunteer mentors.
“If you’re over the age of 21, hold a full driver’s licence and are able to commit to supervising one drive per week on average, mentoring could be perfect for you,” Ms Moriarty said.
“We provide mentors with free training to fully prepare them for their role as a supervising driver and our learners all complete an intake drive with a professional driving instructor prior to beginning the program. This ensures learners are competent to get out on the road and mentors feel confident and safe when supervising.”
Ms Moriarty said anyone interested in supporting the L2P Program by becoming a mentor is encouraged call Penny Walton-Bourke at Central Grampians LLEN on 5352 3266 or email L2P@cgllen.org.au.
For further information please contact:
Jessie Newton on 03 5352 3266 or email media@cgllen.org.au.
PHOTO: L-R Naomi Medlyn (Community Bank), Dr Calvin Taylor (teacher/L2P mentor) Rebecca Reynolds (teacher/L2P mentor) Casey Bertalli (teacher/L2P mentor), Tony Hand (principal/L2P mentor) Drew Redmond (teacher/L2P mentor) Jane Moriarty (Central Grampians LLEN Executive Officer), Penny Walton-Bourke (Central Grampians LLEN Youth Programs Coordinator), Clinton Lobley (teacher/L2P mentor) Lachlan Gifford (student), Anthony Carter (student) and Scott Wilson (Community Bank).