Sanctuary Point Community Bank – Defensive Driver Training Course

On Saturday the 30th July, eighteen local P platers attended a defensive driving course in Marulan. The costs of the course, food and transport were entirely subsided by the Bendigo Bank Sanctuary Point as a community project. At 7:30am we met outside of the bank, and boarded the bus provided by Serco Sedexo.

Upon arrival, we were introduced to the instructors and mentors of the day who led us to our seats. The beginning of the course featured lessons about the influence of drugs, alcohol and peer pressure in influencing our ability to make decisions, maintain balance and coordination and react safely to hazards. Following this, we were taught about the variety of different ‘skids’, of which we would be attempting during the afternoon, and how to respond to them. We were also taught about the physical forces that created these ‘skids’, such as speed or braking, and how best to avoid them.

Following the verbal tutorial, we were provided with lunch and drinks and access to the canteen. After that, we walked towards the end of the course and positioned ourselves on a hill slope where we could safely watch the instructors and later the participants manoeuvre the car through the course. Taking turns, with the instructors in the passenger seats, we attempted three ‘skids’, the ‘four wheel skid’, ‘front wheel skid’ and the ‘rear wheel skid’.

Despite being in a learning environment, the defensive driving course was incredibly FUN! Everybody got along, teasing and praising each other on their ability to drive. The manoeuvres were exciting and the adrenalin rush that came with almost losing control, but having the ability to regain power over the car was fantastic.

I myself, and I am sure that the other participants would agree, had an amazing time and are so thankful to the Bendigo Bank for providing the opportunity to do something we would have otherwise never experienced. I feel so much more confident on the roads, and assured of my abilities to come out safely from hazardous driving situations. Living out in the country, where the closest defensive driving course is over two hours away, I would urge everybody on their P’s to take advantage of the prospect of participating in an incredible course, with fantastic mentors, completely free of charge.

Had I known in advance, how this course would boost my confidence, make me feel safer in the car for myself and my passengers and how much I would enjoy the day, I would have happily paid for it. If you are, or know a P plater who would be interested, get involved with this project next year – it was fantastic!

Pamela Barling
School Captain
Vincentia High School

Driver Training Day - Boral Cement

I would like to thank you for the excellent day of training which the Boral Cement team received yesterday. Having previously attended two driver training sessions run by other organisations, I can clearly say that the day at Marulan Driver Training Centre was the best I have experienced. You certainly have a great facility, with an interesting and well laid out track, and great facilities.

Our instructor Jason was excellent in both the theory and practical sessions of the course. He kept us interested and motivated all day, and was able to explain things in a clear and understandable way.

Thanks once again for creating such an informative, practical and enjoyable day.

Regards,
Mike Boadle - Engineering Services Manager