Tamborine Mountain State High School’s recent Road Safety Event was a powerful and practical learning experience which reinforced the importance of responsible behaviour on the road for the next generation of young drivers.
This long-standing initiative has become a cornerstone of the school’s community engagement, thanks largely to the dedication of Dr Harvey Hunt, who has been instrumental in coordinating the program for the past 20 years.
His ongoing commitment has ensured that generations of students leave school better informed about the realities of road safety.
This year, Dr Michael Adamson stepped up to continue that legacy, working closely with local emergency services, Swanborough Funerals, Spinal Life Australia and solicitor, David Purvis to deliver another impactful event.
Students viewed a simulated car crash involving student actors and watched as emergency services, including police, fire and ambulance personnel and funeral directors responded to the crash scene, giving them a first-hand look at what happens in real-life situations, whilst being narrated by Dr Adamson.
This powerful demonstration highlighted the immediate and long-term consequences of road incidents, reminding everyone of the importance of making safe and responsible choices on the road.
Following this, a debriefing session of the simulated accident was provided.
Students heard from all stakeholders of their roles both during and after car accidents, proving incredibly valuable insight, and often a realistic and confronting perspective of the personal, social, psychological and legal impact and consequences of road accidents on the victims, emergency services personnel, and ultimately the family, friends and communities that reel in the wake of traumatic road accidents.
The open discussion encouraged students to think critically about their choices and further develop their understanding of shared responsibility on the road.
Many Year 12 students described the experience as eye-opening and meaningful, with many highlighting the debrief session as a valuable opportunity to process what they had learned.
Senior students, in particular, gained important knowledge as they prepare to begin driving, while younger students developed a stronger awareness of safe behaviours as passengers, pedestrians, and future drivers.
