Learner Driver Day is coming back to Norwell Motorplex this week, with many young drivers eager to gain new skills behind the wheel.
Returning to its home base for the first-time this year, participants will have the opportunity to navigate a specialised driving course alongside police and other emergency vehicles.
The course hopes to better prepare new drivers by exposing them to various on road interactions, within a safe and controlled environment.
Developed by Police from the Road Policing Task Force and Logan District Highway Patrol, the course includes real life scenarios such as being intercepted by police, giving way to an emergency vehicle and pulling over for a roadside breath test.
After completing a 15 minute theory session, students are then able to hit the tracks and put their practical skills into action.
The numerous scenarios are each practiced at varying, designated speeds.
Senior Constable Andrew Harper from Road Policing Task Force has been a driving force behind Learner Driver Day and is looking forward to expanding its capabilities in future.
"The program has been incredibly popular, as it offers new drivers the chance to practice in a safe environment," said Senior Constable Andrew Harper.
"The response from participants has been so positive we are looking forward to incorporating other important areas of training in future."
Since its establishment in July 2021, the course has welcomed over 1,000 students, many of whom have attested to feeling more confident and at ease behind the wheel after taking part in the training.
"Not all learner drivers get this type of interaction naturally during their year of training and so this program ensures that they are not on their own when they engage with an emergency vehicle for the first time," said Senior Constable Andrew Harper.
Learner Driver Day will be held on Sunday, January 29 at Norwell Motorplex, 75 Norwell Road Norwell
If you're interested in taking part, be sure to book your spot here.
