Learner drivers in the Manning can now sharpen their skills in preparation for P-plate tests in a safe and virtual environment.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
A virtual driving simulator was unveiled at PCYC Taree on Thursday, July 16 thanks to collaboration between the NSW government and Wingham Rotary Club.
The simulator features screens, a steering wheel, pedals, gear stick, handbrake, seat, seat belt and software designed for Australian road use.
Different weather and conditions can be added to the virtual experience such as night, day, rain or fog.
Manager Justin Hayes said the club was the perfect location to house the simulator.
"It's really good to have a resource like the simulator to support young people at the start of their driving journey," Mr Hayes said.
"The PCYC is a place that is at the heart of the community for young people and we've got lots of spaces where different groups of young people can come and engage in a safe space so it makes perfect sense."
Trained volunteers will be on hand to give feedback and advice during simulator sessions. It will be available for drivers in existing PCYC programs and high school students.
"The simulator is another good opportunity for young people to get some further support for learning how to drive and be safe drivers," Mr Hayes added.
Drivers in the traffic offenders intervention program will be the first to get behind the wheel later this month.
The idea was spawned by former Wingham Rotary Club president John Dorrington three years ago.
He was involved in the Rotary Youth Driver Awareness (RYDA) program and wanted to expand on methods that help young drivers be safer on the roads. Mr Dorrington stumbled across a YouTube video which detailed a virtual simulator.
He spoke to fellow Rotarian Ken Patterson about the idea and together they devised a plan to install a simulator at PCYC Taree. Following meetings with Member for Myall Lakes Stephen Bromhead, an $18,000 grant was secured for the project.
Mr Dorrington said the result turned out better than his vision.
"I'm really happy, the technology is fascinating and is an upgrade on the model we originally looked at," Mr Dorrington said.
Mr Bromhead said the simulator will help young drivers prepare for the real world.
"This will give young people who are about to start driving or in the learning phase a real life experience about what it's like to get behind the wheel and drive a car," Mr Bromhead said.
"It's a great addition to the PCYC."
NSW Regional Youth Minister Bronnie Taylor also took the simulator for a spin.
"I think young people are telling us sometimes it is a challenge to do all the hours that are required and get that experience in driving- their parents are busy or they don't have people that can get those hours up and talk about driving," Ms Taylor said.
It's really good to have a resource like the simulator to support young people at the start of their driving journey.
- Justin Hayes, PCYC Taree club manager
"It's another way of having practice and getting that spatial awareness."
She wants to see more simulators available to novice motorists across the State.
"PCYC are behind this program and the more experience we can get for young people to be safer drivers is not only better for them and their families but it's better for the whole community," Ms Taylor said.
You won't see either politician getting a speeding ticket anytime soon.
"It was harder than I thought it was going to be but it was good," Mr Bromhead smiled.
"I wasn't the most impressive on it but what it demonstrated was perception on the road," Ms Taylor added.