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Vision Impaired Hit 130 Kph Down The Straight At SandownLatrobe City’s Rural Access Project Officer Bill Lawler has never had a driver’s licence, but on Sunday 25 March during the annual ‘In the Driver’s Seat’ event, he did six laps of the By Latrobe City Shire Council - 12th April 2007 - Back to News Sandown Park Raceway reaching speeds of up to 130 kph.
Mr Lawler said that driving instructors from independent driving schools offer their time and vehicles free of charge for the event, organised by the Lions Club of Warrandyte.
"This day gives some people who are blind or vision impaired a chance to drive for the first time whilst for others it provides an opportunity to relive some pleasant memories.
"The driving instructor sits beside the participant and talks the driver round the circuit. Each participant gets a half-hour time slot and is able to enjoy the freedom of being in control of a vehicle for that short period of time," Mr Lawler explained.
"It sure beats taking the bus", Mr Lawler said. "It was really exciting to have a drive. It’s something you really miss," Mr Lawler added.
Mr Lawler said that participants had travelled from interstate to take part in the event.
"People travelled from Queensland and the Northern Territory to have a drive. The people from Queensland are going to try and set up a similar event in their own state," Mr Lawler added.
"The event is well supported by the members of the Ulysses (Shearwater) Motor Cycle Group, the Vintage Driver’s Club and the ’49–‘59 Ford Customline Club who provided added excitement by giving participants and their families rides around Sandown Park Raceway and surrounding roads in their vehicles.
"The Lions Club also provided a barbecue and refreshments during the day which attracted around 165 participants and their friends and families. It was a fantastic day.
"Those of us who got to drive had a great time and we can’t wait to experience the feeling of independence behind the wheel again next year," Mr Lawler concluded.
Source: www.gippsland.com Published by: news@gippsland.com
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