In The Driver’s Seat is an event which allows people who are blind or have low vision the chance to experience what it’s like to drive a car or motorbike in a safe and controlled environment at the famous Sandown Park Racecourse.
Run by the Warrandyte Lions Club for 22 years and counting, these driving sessions sell out quickly, and this year was no exception with driving spots already sold out.
Approximately 110 people who are blind or have low vision will take part as 30 driving instructors provide their time, and their cars, for the event.
While driving sessions may be sold out, there is still a myriad of other things happening trackside to make it worth venturing out for.
Throughout the day there will be presentations showing off various technologies such as OrCam. There will also be some support from our friends at Vision Australia Seeing Eye Dogs.
Sabrina Constantin, founder of Myella Believe & Achieve, will also be there, presenting a demo of her wares and sharing her story of how she founded her company despite the difficulties and barriers placed in her way because of her low vision.
Paul Warwick, Regional Business Manager at Vision Australia is thrilled that such an event is possible so that people who would otherwise not be offered the option to drive can at least experience what it is like to be behind the wheel.
“Driving is a great example of what it can be like to feel and experience being independent” he says. “It is not something that a person who is blind or low vision does not aspire to do. This event allows people to have that experience in a safe and fun environment.”
In The Driver's Seat will kick off on Sunday July 7 from 9am until 4pm. To learn more about the impact this event has, visit the In The Driver's Seat homepage HERE.