• Gympie youth in driver’s seat

The three cars to be used by the Driver for Life program in Gympie were on display at the launch.

The Salvation Army Drive for Life program has hit the road in the Queensland city of Gympie.

The Salvos have partnered with Roadcraft Driver Education to bring the program to the region, 170km north of Brisbane. The official launch was held on 30 August.

A Welcome to Country opened proceedings, followed by an explanation of the program and a practical driving demonstration from the Roadcraft team, which showed guests the importance of appropriate reaction and braking distances. A barbeque and refreshments concluded the launch.

Roadcraft and Salvos representatives were on the job manning the barbeque at the launch.

“We are very grateful to open our new location at the Gympie Corps, where our new coordinator will work hard to assist disadvantaged youth in obtaining their driver’s licence,” said Drive for Life Team Leader Arianna Briceno.

“Roadcraft has provided us with wonderful support and guidance throughout this process and have helped us share about our initiative with the local community.” 

The Drive for Life program has been operating since 2008 and has expanded to more than 14 locations with a team of more than 100 staff and volunteers across Australia.

The Drive for Life website states that the program has supported many young people in achieving their Learner and Provisional licences, establishing positive relationships, broadening employment pathways and developing future goals and aspirations.  

Bundaberg Tom Quinn Centre manager Jessica Tobin speaks on behalf of The Salvation Army at the launch.

“We estimate over 10,000 young people have passed through our program and moved into further education or employment,” Arianna said.

“Approximately 75 per cent of young people enrolled in our program achieve their learner licence, and 68 per cent will go on to achieve their full driver’s licence. Participants in our program receive road safety education and go on to become safe and responsible road users.”

“I’m so pleased that this program is here,” said Roadcraft CEO Sharlene Makin. “It’s just so lovely we can finally get something organised for them.”

---

The Drive for Life program relies on volunteers to assist with mentoring and driving instruction. For more information on becoming a Driving Mentor, click here

For more information on the Drive for Life program, click here 

To view a Salvos Studios video on the Bundaberg Drive for Life program, click here