Who is RYDE for?
The RYDE Program helps young people who live in the South West who are experiencing barriers completing their compulsory 50 log book hours. The RYDE sessions are about gaining experience and improving skill rather than the initial stage of ‘learning to drive’.
Are you eligible?
- 16 to 25 years old
- Have a learners permit
- Don’t have access to a suitable vehicle
- Don’t have someone with 4 years’ experience to accompany you.
- Anyone that needs help with driving experience (subject to program position availability)
How do I access the program?
If you are having trouble getting your 50 log book hours contact a RYDE Provider and make an appointment to meet with a support worker. RYDE providers are local organisations that can assess and sign up learner drivers to the program. Only a RYDE Provider can set you up as a participant of the program. They will support you through the online booking and payment process, as well as offer assistance along the way. They can also help to arrange a driving assessment with our partnered driving schools to ensure that you don’t need extra formal lessons before you begin with the RYDE Program.
How much does it cost?
Participants are required to cover the cost of a RYDE assessment with our partnered driving instructors before they start the RYDE program regardless of previous experience. This can only be done once you’ve met with a RYDE Provider. The assessment evaluates whether participants possess skills for basic vehicle operation, an understanding of road rules and, generally do not pose a significant risk to other road users or the volunteer driving mentors who may accompany them during driving sessions.
After the RYDE assessment, learner drivers are required to pay a small fee of $15 per 90 minute session. Sessions are paid for using credit codes bought through the RYDE website with Paypal, a credit card or debit card. Your RYDE Provider can help to explain this part of the process.
What will I need to bring when I sign up?
Once you’ve contacted a RYDE Provider and set up a meeting with a RYDE Support Worker you will need to take a few things with you before you can be set up as a RYDE participant. Please ensure you have the following information with you when you sign up:
- Learners permit number
- Mobile number
- Working email address
Where will RYDE driving sessions take place?
Bunbury
Sessions start and finish at the
South West Sports Centre
1 Rotary Dr, Withers WA 6230
Busselton
Sessions start and finish at the
Geographe Leisure Centre,
Recreation Ln, West Busselton WA 6280
Collie
Sessions start and finish at the
Collie PCYC
105 Forrest Street, Collie WA 6225
Volunteering with South West RYDE
Volunteer Driving Mentors will take participants driving in the City’s suburbs and surrounding areas. The sessions are a chance to practice driving and complete the required 50 hours of supervised driving rather than being a formal lesson where you are taught new skills each time. Mentors may show you different driving skills like parking and negotiating roundabouts however their primary focus is building up participant’s confidence and hours on the road.
How can I become a volunteer driving mentor?
Want to help make a difference for young people? Interested in mentoring or helping make the roads a safer place?
Our mentors are the key to the success of RYDE, helping young people become more responsible and independent. The mentor role can be a rewarding experience as you support young people achieve their 50 log book hours, share knowledge about negotiating the roads, and build supportive relationships with young people.
The manual car supplied is fully insured and maintained. Full training is provided and associated costs covered. Suitable applicants will be required to attend an interview then complete a driving session with our partnered driving school and complete an online induction.
Requirements:
- Current “C” class manual, or “C-A” class automatic Driver’s Licence for more than 4 years
We have automatic vehicles in all 3 locations. - National Police Clearance less than 6 months old
- Current Working with Children Check
- Patience, respect, and the ability to relate to young people
To find out more or apply to volunteer contact your local volunteer centre.
For more information or to contact South West RYDE:
Contact the RYDE Coordinator on 0411 440 961 or RYDE@iioy.org.au
To Volunteer with RYDE contact:
Bunbury / Collie
Volunteer South West 9791 3214
http://volunteersouthwest.org.au/
Busselton
Busselton-Dunsborough Volunteer Centre 9754 2047
Learner Drivers
Contact your nearest RYDE Provider as listed on the website.