Confronting New Films Challenge Young Drivers

06 Dec 2006

MEDIA RELEASE - WEDNESDAY 6 DECEMBER 2006

Two confronting new films, by young Melbourne filmmakers, are set to be released into cinemas this summer to combat road trauma involving 18 to 25 year olds.

The TAC commissioned the two films as part of its strategy to address road trauma amongst young people.

“In Victoria, young people aged 18 to 25 are more likely to die on the roads than from any other cause,” said TAC Chief Executive Officer, Paul O’Connor.

“In the past five years, 462 young people have been killed on Victorian roads and more than 8,500 young people have been seriously injured.

“This year, we have already had 54 people aged 18 to 25 die on our roads

“These new films are confronting but we make no apologies as every death is a tragedy of unfulfilled potential that we cannot accept.   

The two films titled ‘Slab’ and ‘Wanker’ are by young Melbourne filmmakers Melissa Bubnic, 24, and Lucinda Schroder, 26.

Lucinda Schroder who wrote and directed ‘Slab’ said the film was based on the idea that when you drive, your mate’s life is in your hands.

“Slab is based in a morgue, with a Rocky Horror Show theme that challenges the idea of mateship and risk taking on the road,” she said.

Melissa Bubnic said her film ‘Wanker’ is set in a training school for hoon drivers and uses humour to highlight the dangers of such behaviour.

“I wanted to challenge the thinking of young men in cars and the idea that what they were doing actually makes them look silly.” 

There are some signs that the integrated approach by road safety partners towards young drivers is having an effect.  This year there has been a 40% reduction in fatalities amongst the 18 to 25 age group.

However, Mr O’Connor advises caution , “While this is obviously a promising trend, it is so far a short-term one and we all need to continue to work hard to maintain it.”

The films will be shown over the summer period before popular motion picture releases, targeting the 18 to 25 age group.

The road toll stands at 312 this year, compared with 316 at the same time last year, a decrease of 1%.

To view the films visit www.mafmad.com.au

For further information contact: Alex Twomey on 03 9664 6591 or 0439 319 192.