It would have to be a parent's worst nightmare: receiving the news that your 18 year old son was killed in a horror car smash. But it was worse, much worse than that: Jordan was speeding and under the influence of alcohol and drugs when he drove his car into a stationary vehicle. His choices not only caused his death but made him responsible for the death of four other human beings. "It not only affected us as parents, it affected Jordan's siblings as well as the families and friends of the other victims. Peter rejects the incident to be called an accident. "It was a direct consequence of Jordan choosing to drive while under the influence. "
At today's meeting, Peter McGuiness outlined his organisation, 'You Choose - Youth Road Safety', which he and his wife Melissa set up, following that horrendous event in 2012. The program is mostly presented at High Schools, to Year 11 students.. "The approach is novel and innovative," Peter said. "Not 'the poor kid had an accident, but instead of preaching and lecturing, the concept gives emphasis to the fact that the kid made the choice to drive at 120 Km/Hr. The students are actively engaged. "What would you do?" is the question asked. "Interestingly, on every occasion, we are the ones who are learning", Peter said.
Think about it: There has never been more money spent on road safety, car safety and stringent policing. Yet, road trauma, at best, remains static or is increasing. The thing that has not changed is the culture. You Choose Youth Road Safety addresses that. And perhaps, with the various Interact clubs Rotary is running in various High Schools, perhaps we might have an ideal vehicle to help Peter and Melissa to get the message across.
Photo: Peter McGuiness (centre), with his organisation's Chairman Todd Cole (4th from left), new corporate member Nick Cole (third from right) Visit their website: www.youchooseyrs.org.au