Milestone for L2P Program Mentors

Published on 22 December 2023

Learning to drive is made easier for the young people of Mansfield Shire thanks to the TAC L2P Program and the tireless efforts of the program’s volunteers, two of whom recently celebrated 10 years of service.

The program assists learner drivers under 21 years of age, who do not have access to a supervising driver or vehicle, to gain the 120 hours driving experience required to apply for a probationary licence.

In celebration of the milestone last week, mentors Cathie Smith and Ian Mallyon were presented with gifts from TAC and Council and were congratulated by Mayor Cr Steve Rabie and Acting CEO Melissa Crane.

Cathie has been volunteering with L2P since 2010 and Ian since 2011, volunteering approximately 600 and over 400 hours respectively.

“Cathie and Ian give tirelessly to the program and never look for acknowledgement,” said Council’s L2P Coordinator Amelia Turner.

“They have great skills in relating to learner drivers who I can rely on for both mentoring and support in the program.”

“We were also joined by three learners who wanted to be a part of the acknowledgement to Cathie and Ian.”

Mansfield Shire Council has delivered the innovative TAC L2P Program locally since June 2000, providing an opportunity for young people to interact with a positive adult role model during a critical period in their development.

In congratulating the mentors on their service, Mayor Cr Steve Rabie said the L2P program had opened up many possibilities for participants.

“Gaining ‘P’ plates has allowed many young people to attend interviews, gain employment, and drive to their new jobs,” he said.

“Good driving habits are something that the whole community benefits from, and the TAC L2P program not only gives thousands of young Victorians the opportunity to get their licence, but it also makes our roads safer.”

If you are a learner driver completing your hours or are interested in becoming a volunteer mentor, please contact Program Coordinator Amelia Turner on 0437 886 339 or email youth.services@mansfield.vic.gov.au

For further information visit https://www.mansfield.vic.gov.au/Community/Residents/Young-People/TAC-L2P-Program  and www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/tacl2p

The L2P Program is funded by TAC, managed by the Department of Transport, and coordinated locally by Mansfield Shire Council.

Pictured below L-R: Amelia Turner, Ian Mallyon, Mayor Rabie, Cathie Smith, Melissa Crane, Kayla Carter, Daniel Carter and Dylan Carter