Greater Taree City Council is holding a free two hour Helping Learner Drivers Become Safer Drivers workshop for parents and supervisors of learner drivers on Wednesday, May 11.

Attendees will leave armed with information, practical advice, and a structured approach to building the competency of their learner, along with confidence in teaching safe driving habits," said road safety officer Chris Dimarco.

“Roads and Maritime Services recognise the important part that parents and supervisors play in supporting inexperienced drivers, and developed the course to help them prepare for the role.

"We’ve had some really positive feedback from those who attended in the past, including being able to plan practice driving sessions that help their learner driver build their skills progressively.” 

Some of the topics covered include laws that apply to L and P licence holders, completing the learner driver log book, and the benefits of well supervised on-road driving experience.  

With inexperience being a major cause of road crashes, workshop content provides guidance for supervisors across the full breadth of driving skills, and road and traffic conditions.

Seventeen-year old learner, Maya Bird, (pictured) whose parents are teaching her to drive, said  “before the workshop, our focus was mostly on adding hours to the log-book rather than actual skills – now we practice something new each time, and take different routes”. 

Her mum adds “Maya will soon sit for her P’s and I’m confident that by using the advice gained in the Helping Learner Drivers session, we’ve been able to teach her  responsible driving habits that will mean she’s well equipped when we’re no longer in the passenger seat”.

The workshop will be held at the Council building, in the Manning Room, 2 Pulteney Street Taree, starting at 6.00pm. Light refreshments will be provided. 

Bookings are essential and can be made by calling GTCC on 6592 5399, or email tareecouncil@gtcc.nsw.gov.au.