Narrandera Shire Council supported NRMA Safer Driving - Wagga Wagga to provide the Safer Drivers Course locally for the first time on Saturday 19 October. Previously Narrandera learner drivers would have to travel to Wagga Wagga or Griffith to complete the course.
“We identified that accessing the course was difficult for our residents and placed them at a disadvantage compared to learners in larger centres,” said Council’s Road Safety Officer, Elizabeth Mudford.
“To address this we approached NRMA Safer Driving – Wagga Wagga and reached an agreement for the course to be delivered in Narrandera. Council provided a venue, promoted the course and covered the travel costs of the course presenters.”
The Safer Drivers Course helps young drivers on their L-plates prepare for driving solo when they graduate to provisional licences. The eight learner drivers who participated will receive 20
hours of log book credit for completing the five hour course.
The course consists of two modules. Module 1 is the group discussion with learning similar to a classroom environment. Module 2 is the in-car practical learning with a qualified driving instructor and another student.
“Receiving 20 hours log book credit has helped me get closer to being able to go for my Ps,” remarked Justin Wilson, course participant.
“The morning session had some great discussion and has made me think about what I can do to stay safe on the road, especially once I get my licence. To follow this up with a chance to drive with an instructor has been very helpful.”
Maree Rainbird, whose daughter completed the course, had attended a Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers Workshop earlier in the year. “We talked about the Safer Drivers Course in the workshop and the distance we needed to travel to access the course. It’s great that Council has been able to organise for the course to be held here in Narrandera.”
“We’re very happy to have been able to deliver the Safer Drivers Course in Narrandera,” said Chris Hillis, NRMA Safer Driver - Wagga and Regions course facilitator.
“The group were fabulous. I’m confident they will all make better driving decisions as a result of choosing to complete the course. Congratulations Narrandera Shire Council, what a great way to keep your young drivers safe.”
Narrandera Shire Council plans to continue to support learner drivers and their supervising drivers through delivering the Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers Workshop for supervising drivers and supporting the Safer Drivers Course for learners. Future courses and workshops will be promoted on Council’s Facebook page or if you are wish to express an interest in attending future activities please contact Elizabeth Mudford, Road Safety Officer on 02 695510 or by email at rso@narrandera.nsw.gov.au.
