HOLIDAY-makers travelling to or through Wentworth, Buronga and Dareton can take advantage of a free coffee, with many local businesses jumping on board the road safety initiative.
Those travelling in regional NSW this Easter can check out the Free Cuppa for the Driver website which lists more than 100 businesses that will provide a driver with a free coffee.
Wentworth Shire Council’s road safety officer Belinda Fitzgerald said to be eligible, drivers must be more than 100 kilometres away from home.
“The second biggest killer on NSW roads is drivers who are tired — this scheme encourages drivers to stop, have a break and enjoy a free cuppa,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“Drivers claiming a free cuppa can also go into the draw to win fuel vouchers, travel vouchers or a coffee machine, with a total prize pool of $1200.
“Remember that coffee is no substitute for rest — we really just want you to stop and take a break.”
Ms Fitzgerald said if you feel tired while driving pull over for a break in a safe place, have a nap (20 minutes works best), swap drivers if you can and even if you don’t feel tired take regular breaks to avoid becoming tired.
“Fatigue related crashes are twice as likely to be fatal, as drivers who are asleep can’t brake,” Ms Fitzgerald said.
“Being awake for about 17 hours has a similar effect on performance as a blood alcohol content (BAC) of 0.05.”
A raft of local businesses have jumped on board the initiative including the Buronga Bakery, Midway IGA, Dareton Mini Mart, Coomealla Golf Club, Orange World and the Crown Hotel at Wentworth.
Travellers can search freecuppa.com.au for all participating business until May 31.
