Marlene was one of the first in Albany to join the Wanderer Program Partnership for the Great Southern, delivered by Southern Aboriginal Corporation in collaboration with the McGovern Foundation and funded by the Driving Access and Equity Program.
Referred by her father, Jerome, Marlene had her learner’s permit but needed a car to practice and sit her practical driving assessment (PDA). After joining the program in December 2024, Marlene began her journey with extreme anxiety and little driving knowledge.
With 56 hours of support from her driver mentor, Belinda, Marlene’s confidence grew steadily. Belinda’s calm, reassuring approach and constructive feedback made learning feel safe and judgment-free.
“Driving with Belinda was extremely reassuring as I suffer from extreme anxiety. She made me feel comfortable and confident, and her feedback never felt judgmental,” she shared.
“I have so much more confidence than when I started. Driving and interacting with Belinda and the team has been a wonderful and extremely helpful experience. I’m very grateful to have had this opportunity, thank you.”
Marlene successfully passed her PDA and now plans to purchase her own car, a step she said will bring her great joy as she drives her family around.
