RYDA, or Rotary Youth Driver Awareness, was successfully held again this year over 3 days 14-16 May. It is a program now run by by leading professional learning organisation Road Safety Education Ltd (RSE) and is designed to complement the high school curriculum. It provides students with the tools, habits and motivation to take action and stay safe on our roads throughout their lives, both as drivers and passengers.
The one-day program, held each year at Frogs Hollow near Bega, is supported by Bega Rotary and led by Eric Johnston who has been organising the program for 18 years. We acknowledge and thank Eric's dedication to this important program to help keep our young drivers safe as they begin to drive.
290 students attended and high schools and colleges represented included Bega, Bombala, Lumen Christi, Eden Marine, Jindabyne, Cooma Monaro and SCAC.
Lunch was provided each day by Lions Clubs from Merimbula and Bega as well as Pambula Rotary. Tathra Lions, Bega Rotary and other community members also provided much-needed assistance on the days. The presenters kept the students engaged throughout 6 learning modules including Road Choices, Mind Matters, I drive, SOS, Crash Survivors and Stopping demonstration.
Bega Valley Motors again generously donated the vehicle for the demonstrations.
