By PETER DOUGLAS
IT’S the conversation all parents must have with teen children, according to Emerald Fire Brigade member Jody Yandle … ‘road trauma: how to avoid becoming part of a tragedy’.
As the first anniversary approaches for the horrific car crash in Avonsleigh in which three teenagers lost their lives, Ms Yandle is encouraging parents and teens to attend the Teenage Road Information Program (TRIP) at Emerald Secondary College on Thursday 16 June.
Ms Yandle was the first to attend the Avonsleigh crash, which took the lives of teenagers Sharn Walker, Felisha Allen and Jason Breakwell, after their car hit a tree along Phillip Road on the afternoon of Tuesday 30 June last year.
Ms Yandle said: “I don’t want anyone to experience something like that”. Which is why she is encouraging attendance.
TRIP will include video clips, guest speakers and information designed to encourage teens to think carefully about their choices, either as driver or passenger.
“Families should have discussions with their kids around a ‘plan B’, if they’re out,” she said.
“We want them to survive their youth, to think about what to do in certain situations … to always have an alternate plan in case things don’t turn out as expected.
“They need to identify that person … the one who will come and pick them up at 4am if they don’t feel safe.”
The TRIP audience will hear from those who have lost someone close, as well as young man who worked hard to get back his life after a car accident.
Emerald emergency service members will talk about their experiences, their role and how they manage the psychological stress that goes with their important work.
TRIP is a free community event and will take place at the Emerald Secondary College’s Performing Arts Centre, at 7.30pm on Thursday 16 January.
Counsellors and support people will be available. For more details, contact 0412 527 497.
