Celebrating a decade of L2P success

Published on 30 June 2023

Local young people will continue to benefit from a free learn to drive program that has been running in the Gannawarra for the past 10 years.

Gannawarra Shire Council and the Murray Mallee Local Learning and Employment Network (MMLLEN) held celebrations on 21 June to mark the L2P Driver Mentor Program’s 10-year milestone and to announce that MMLLEN will take over management of the program from 1 July 2023.

Council has overseen the program since its inception in 2013, which assists eligible learner drivers between the ages of 16 and 21 years who do not have access to a supervising driver, or an appropriate vehicle to gain the 120 hours of driving experience required for a probationary licence.

“Young people from across the Gannawarra have benefited from this vital program, which helps learner drivers gain valuable experience behind the wheel before applying for a probationary licence,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.

“This program’s success would not be possible without the dedication of the mentor supervisor drivers, who for the past decade have taken the time to supervise program participants and have become mentors to these young people.”

After announcing in March 2023 it would not be extending its contract to operate the program, Council has been working with the Department of Transport to find a suitable community-based organisation to take over operations. These discussions resulted in MMLLEN expressing an interest to manage the program.

MMLLEN will be looking for enthusiastic people who can commit up to two hours a week to help a young learner complete 120 hours of driving.

Volunteers will be provided with training in the latest road safety practices before being matched with a learner driver.

For more information regarding the L2P Program, phone MMLLEN on (03) 5033 2017 or visit www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/tacl2p