Celebrating Another Year of L2P

Last Wednesday, we gathered at Oscars Cafe and Bar for the annual L2P Mentors Christmas get together. There was a strong sense of warmth in the room as mentors, staff and supporters came together to reflect on the year that was and to celebrate the people who make the program possible.

After a year that began with some challenges around car key storage, it was especially meaningful to pause and acknowledge the patience, problem solving and teamwork that helped the program find its footing again. The commitment of mentors and the Working Party ensured L2P continued to support young people who need it most.

The Role Mentors Play

The L2P Program simply does not function without mentors. Every hour volunteered, every conversation in the car and every steady presence makes a difference.

To date, mentors have contributed more than 62,000 supervised driving hours. That is the equivalent of almost 32 years of full time work. Through this commitment, 475 learners have achieved their probationary licences and more than 1,900 young people from disadvantaged backgrounds have been supported through the program.

This year alone, mentors supervised over 13,000 hours of driving. That equates to nearly seven years of full time work in just twelve months. Each learner supported through L2P benefits from the equivalent of more than $4,000 worth of mentor time, generously given.

Real Impact for Young People

The impact of the program is not just measured in hours or licences. It is seen in confidence, connection and opportunity.

Of the learners who graduated this year, every one reported feeling more confident and safer on the road. Eighty percent gained employment after getting their licence. All reported feeling less socially isolated, and all felt their mentor helped them make better life decisions.

These outcomes speak to the relationships built through the program and the care mentors bring to their role.

Recognising Outstanding Mentors

This year also brought well deserved recognition for several mentors.

The L2P mentor team received a nomination for the City of Ballarat Seniors Team Award. Harry Gibcus reached an incredible milestone of 15 years as an L2P mentor. Milad Nachar was named Senior of the Year by the City of Ballarat. Sam Milne was recognised as Mentor of the Year by the Department of Transport and Planning.

Each of these acknowledgements reflects the dedication and integrity mentors bring to the program year after year.

Looking Ahead with Gratitude

As we move toward the end of the year, the Christmas get together was a reminder of the strength of this community. The L2P Program continues because of the generosity, patience and commitment of mentors who show up week after week for young people.

We are deeply grateful to every mentor for the role they play and look forward to continuing this important work together in 2026.