New-look Vanessa shows you can’t keep a good thing down

The Transport Accident Commission’s Vanessa program has undergone a facelift in time for summer.  

The Vanessa program aims to educate the current generation of young drivers around how they can keep themselves and their mates safe on the roads.  

The Vanessa fleet, comprising three 5-star ANCAP rated vehicles, will again be present at Victorian coastal locations throughout summer, including the ‘Big V’ bus in Torquay and Warrnambool this weekend.

Big V will be at the Elephant Walk park in Torquay on Friday from 2pm to 6pm and Lake Pertobe, near Beach Kiosk on Saturday from 2pm to 6pm.  

While being laid up for most of the year due to the COVID-19 lockdown, Big V used the time to get COVID-safe by removing the rooftop ball pit and installing a nostalgic milk bar and the ultimate chill-out zone.

Vanessa staff will encourage young people to think about how they’re getting back to their accommodation safely – both after a night out and after a few days of partying.  

Staff will also remind new P-platers about their license responsibilities, especially given the peer environment they will find themselves in.

TAC’s Head of Marketing and Communications, Jo Whyte said the Big V is an important way for TAC to communicate the road safety message to young drivers.

“We know there are a range of factors that make young drivers far more vulnerable to crashes and injury, which is why Vanessa is so important in helping young drivers to make informed choices. We want them to embrace a culture of looking out for mates and planning ahead before a long drive.”

Ms Whyte said any level of alcohol in a person’s system impairs their ability to drive safely and the best bet was to separate drinking from driving altogether.

“If you’re planning on travelling around the state this summer, plan ahead, get plenty of rest before driving, or consider leaving the car at home and take advantage of the public transport and taxi options available.”

To find out more about Vanessa, visit the Vanessa Facebook page or the Vanessa website