FREE QUAD BIKE PROGRAM TO PROTECT KIDS

Students across regional NSW are putting safety first, as a free quad bike safety program kicks off across the state for kids aged 16 years and older.

As part of Youth Week, SafeWork NSW has partnered with Tocal College to deliver over 400 free training events for quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles in regional and remote NSW schools.

Minister for Fair Trading Eleni Petinos said the program will provide practical skills for young people operating high-risk vehicles on farms and at work.

“These types of vehicles can be dangerous, and that is why this Youth Week we are encouraging young people to take part in this free training. Students and their teachers will be taught how to safely use and maintain quad bikes and side-by-side vehicles,” Ms Petinos said.

“Tragically, since 2011 there have been 168 quad bike deaths in the country, 43 of those in New South Wales. 15 per cent of fatalities are children under the age of 16.

“Safety is my first priority, so we must ensure students using these vehicles are protected and are learning the best safety practices.

“I encourage all eligible students and teachers to take part in this free one-day course. While quad bikes are great farming vehicles, they are also the biggest killer on Australian farms and must be operated with care.”

Eligible students who complete the training will receive a certificate of accreditation and a AS/NZS 3838-06 compliant helmet.

The free training is made possible by the SafeWork NSW Quad Bike Safety Improvement Program in partnership with NSW Department of Primary Industries, Tocal Agricultural College. Find out more about the NSW Government’s Quad Bike Safety Training Program online or email tocalskillstraining@dpi.nsw.gov.au.