Birrang, a driving school, has received support from the NRMA to bring its learner driver program to the school. 

In June, $16,500 was raised by NRMA staff and matched dollar-for-dollar by the NRMA, to then be invested into the program so it could be delivered free of charge to students. 

“We’re proud to be partnering with Birrang to deliver road safety support,” NRMA community programs manager Janice Ellis said.

This funding enables Birrang to run a five-week program at the school, where students study for their learner test and, once successful, have lessons on the road with instructors.

The idea to run a program like this came from Bathurst Young Mob’s Shona Kennedy, who wanted to help indigenous students get access to driving lessons.

It has since been opened to all students who are old enough to learn to drive. 

Students who have joined the program are very grateful for what it offers.

“I think it is a good opportunity for all students,” Year 12 student Rebecca Thornbury said. “It gives me the confidence in the car and it gives me more hours.”

Year 11 student Jake Callaghan said he also feels more confident and has learnt how to park, reverse and perform head checks. 

Birrang projects officer Jamie Gibbs said the program has been very successful, with around 50 sessions conducted that equate to around 150 logbook hours for students.

Four students have so far obtained their learner licence after classroom sessions with Birrang. 

Mr Gibbs said the program is about making sure students not only have access to driving lessons, but become safer drivers as well.

“The feedback I’ve gotten from the students is overwhelming. They’re all happy and grateful for it,” he said.