A multi-agency operation to support disadvantaged learner drivers, the Raymond Terrace Driving Program is celebrating its 1st anniversary, NSW Police say.
The program was launched in August 2017, and 10am on Thursday 6 December 2018, at Kloster Ford, 189 Adelaide St at Raymond Terrace, makes one year.
The program is a partnership between Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, Raymond Terrace Rotary, Port Stephens Council, Raymond Terrace PCYC, the Wahroonga Aboriginal Corporation and the Raymond Terrace Men’s Shed.
The program is supported by Kloster Ford who have provided a motor vehicle for exclusive use by the participants in the program.
The program has seen six disadvantaged members of the Port Stephens community who did not have access to a motor vehicle or mentors to supervise their driving – now secure their licence.
Officers from Port Stephens-Hunter Police District, Rotary members and Port Stephens State Emergency Service members have volunteered their time to mentor the participants, so they can accumulate the required hours to secure their driver’s licence.
The participants are supported as they undertake the program by completing professional driving lessons from local providers and completing the Police Citizens Youth Centre Safer Driver Course.
Port Stephens-Hunter Police District Chief Inspector Tony Townsend says the program is an essential part of developing local community ties.
"Having a driver’s licence is probably one of the most important qualifications in securing employment and has even more relevance in the Port Stephens community where access to a car is vital.
"The existence of the program is the culmination of some significant background work by all partner agencies, who are determined to make a difference for disadvantaged members of the Port Stephens community." Chief Inspector Townsend said.
