A thought-provoking road safety program aimed at saving young lives will return to Mansfield next month.

The CoolHeads Young Driver Program will be held at the Mansfield Performing Arts Centre, View Street, on Wednesday, 26 November 2025, at 7pm.

Presented by Victoria Police, alongside Ambulance Victoria and the CFA, the free two-hour session is designed to challenge young drivers’ attitudes and decision-making on the road.

Rather than teaching driving skills, the program exposes participants to the confronting realities of road trauma through visuals, stories and firsthand accounts from professionals who respond to serious crashes.

Senior Sergeant facilitators from Victoria Police’s Major Collision Investigation Unit (MCIU) will share their experiences investigating fatal collisions, while emergency service personnel will speak about the aftermath of road trauma and its ripple effects through communities.

Among the guest speakers will be Michael Purcell, father of Jordan Purcell, who was killed by a driver in Alexandra in 2019.

Mr Purcell will share his personal story to highlight the devastating consequences of distraction and risk-taking behind the wheel.

The event is free, but registration is essential via Eventbrite to ensure a seat: https://www.eventbrite.com.au/e/coolheads-young-driver-program-mansfield-tickets-1762893555079

Attendees requiring a certificate of attendance should register at the CoolHeads desk on arrival.

Please note, the program is not recommended for persons under 16 years of age, and filming and photography will occur during the event.