Geared2Drive goes up a cog

Tuesday 14th February 2017

Geared2 Drive the popular driver training program conducted by the District Council of Grant for 16-25 year olds seeking their provisional driving licence has received a $1000 donation from the Limestone Coast Local Government Association (LCLGA) to help even more young residents become safer drivers.

Geared2Drive provides an opportunity for young people who have a learner’s permit but lack the support and resources to attain the required number of driving hours to gain their P plates.

The $1000 windfall comes in the slipstream of the LCLGA’s win in the inaugural 2016 Safe Cycling Awards sponsored by the Motor Accident Commission. An award recognising the LCLGA’s active support of safe cycling for young riders linked with the past three years of the Tour of the Great South Coast cycling race. This collaboration between Local Government, event management and several racing teams has seen the cycling safely sessions grow from 200 students in 2014 to a peak of 800 students in 2016.

When presenting the donation, Rob Forgan, Limestone Coast Regional Community Road Safety Officer congratulated the District Council and its dedicated band of volunteers on their commitment. Rob said, “Geared2Drive fills a real need for young people across the District and City Councils who do not have the means to achieve the prescribed number of hours to gain their provisional licence.’ “The program is a model for other communities to follow as it includes compulsory pre-entry sessions covering road safety, communication, dealing with peer pressure and decision making.’ “Another benefit is that it sets up a relationship with their volunteer supervisors who just happen to mentor young adults along the way not just to getting their licence, but independence and work readiness.’ “The Limestone Coast LGA recognises the value of this service to the community and is delighted to make this contribution to the work of Geared2Drive.’

Media Contact: Jayne Miller - Community Development Officer

District Council of Grant

8721 0444 jayne.miller@dcgrant.sa.gov.au

Contact: Rob Forgan – Regional Road Safety Officer

Limestone Coast Local Government Association

0408 673 113 roadsafety@lclga.sa.gov.au