EDUCATING high school students about the potential road trauma consequences that often arise from young people taking too many risks when in their cars is what the Mystery Tour of Life is all about.
Students from Bridgetown High School and Boyup Brook District High School were confronted with a simulated car crash, following the journey that victims, family members, emergency services volunteers, Police and hospital staff have to deal with when a major road trauma occurs.
Intended to make the students stop and think before they take part in risky behaviour, whether choosing to jump into their mates car, drive themselves after a few drinks, not put on their seatbelt, or text while driving, the tour is aimed at providing a level of awareness of what really happens.
The Mystery Tour of Life is a program coordinated by the RoadWise program committee, supported by local Police, St John Ambulance, the Fire and Emergency Services Brigade, the CWA and the Bridgetown Repertory.
Event Master of Ceremonies and Bridgetown Primary School acting Principal Chris Mott said that it was a fantastic program and great to provide an opportunity for local high school students to gain a clearer understanding of what their choices may lead to.
"This is great for our high school students to gain a better understanding of what really happens when a major car crash occurs," Mr Mott said. "The impact on so many people within our community is something we really can't record and don't usually get a chance to share.
"It provides them with a chance to meet the community members that are involved in something like this and to see what they have to do. They also hear real life stories from those who have been directly affected by road trauma. This is real life with meaningful and sometimes heartbreaking stories. This is what really happens.
"I would like to thank the RoadWise committee for their planning and input to help improve this each year and Graham Chitty who was the driving force in creating this program many years ago," Mr Mott said.
Bridgetown High School year 9 and 10 student coordinator Bec Carney said the community effort to raise awareness to these students was commendable and great timing as they prepare to learn to drive.
"I’ve accompanied the Year 10 students on the Mystery Tour of Life every year over the past few years, and each time am overwhelmed at the level of commitment shown by our local community members," Ms Carney said. "The planning and coordination that goes into this event is massive and really shows just how important the community thinks the issue of road safety is.
"Even though the day is confronting and uncomfortable at times, it really is crucial that our students attend and it is opportune, because our students are just now starting to undertake the Keys for Life Program at school, which sees them working towards gaining their Learners’ Permit.
"Even if the day impacts on just a few of our students and makes them more cautious and safe on our roads, then I think that’s a good thing.
"The Shire, our local police, hospital staff and emergency services volunteers really should be commended on their work in making this event possible each year."
Bridgetown Police Senior Constable Mike Smith said it was a confronting message aimed at trying to show students the effect their decisions may have on them for the rest of their lives.
"This outing provides students with an awareness as to what dangers they may encounter whilst driving should they NOT abide by the Law," Mr Smith said. "It is predominantly directed towards drink driving, speeding, mobile phone usage (distraction) and fatigue.
"The presentation of film clips and the practical scene scenario presented is to emphasise to the future drivers that should they speed, should they use their mobile phone while driving or drink and drive, there could be catastrophic consequences.
"Those consequences could be as little as a bruise or a bump to the head to being paralysed, scarred for life (mentally or physically) or even death.
"It is hoped that the ‘Shock” tactic will be what stops these young drivers from making the wrong decision and it could be that one thing that keeps them alive and stops them from becoming a statistic."
