YOUNG drivers across Ipswich and the western corridor will again have the chance to build real-world road skills in a safe environment, with the Queensland Police Service continuing its partnership with Queensland Raceway for Learner Drive Nights this year.
Held at Queensland Raceway in Willowbank, the popular program is designed to remove the uncertainty many inexperienced drivers feel when confronted with flashing red and blue lights on local roads.
Police say confusion or panic in these moments can increase risk, particularly for young motorists, making hands-on education an important part of keeping the community safe.
For 18-year-old Ripley resident Jamie Macklin, the experience was an eye-opener.
“You worry about doing the wrong thing,” he said. “Being able to practise it properly, without traffic around, makes a huge difference.”
The Learner Drive Nights are open to young drivers of all experience levels – not just those on learner or provisional licences – and provide a rare opportunity to interact directly with emergency services personnel outside of real traffic conditions.
The evening begins with a short, practical discussion around road safety and expectations, before participants take to the Queensland Raceway circuit in their own vehicles.
Springfield Lakes P-plater Emma Nuyen, 20, said the controlled environment helped take the stress out of learning.
“Here, they explain exactly what they expect from you, then you get to do it yourself,” she said.
“It makes you feel more confident for when it happens on a normal road.”
On the track, drivers experience realistic scenarios they may face on Ipswich and regional roads, including emergency vehicles approaching from behind, passing while responding to incidents, and simulated roadside stops.
Police guide participants through what to expect, their responsibilities as drivers, and the safest ways to slow down, pull over and allow emergency services to pass without putting themselves or others at risk.
The program also covers random breath testing procedures, what to do when being pulled over by police, and safe, respectful ways to interact with emergency personnel during stressful situations.
Organisers say the practical experience helps turn theory into confidence, something that can be difficult to achieve in everyday driving lessons alone.
The next Learner Drive Night will be held on Thursday, February 5, with registrations now open. Families are reminded that bookings must be made in the learner or driver’s name, not the supervising passenger.
Supervisors accompanying learner drivers must hold an open licence and be over the age of 25.
Queensland Police Service said the initiative supports its broader commitment to reducing serious crashes and fatalities on Queensland roads.
Data shows that many severe incidents are linked to the “Fatal Five” behaviours – speeding, drink and drug driving, not wearing seatbelts, fatigue and distraction – all of which are addressed through education and awareness programs like Learner Drive Nights.
As more young people take to busy local roads, police and participants alike say programs like this can play a vital role in building safer, more confident drivers.
