A PROGRAM designed to inform people about the health impacts of binge drinking, drink driving and unprotected sex is underway in Bendigo.
Youth Substance Abuse Service manager Kerry Donaldson said the Safest Ride program was an interactive and fun program that involved using the very popular “beer goggles” to simulate a high blood alcohol level of 0.075. 
“The Safest Ride concept originated in Frankston and was undertaken over a 10 night period with 846 people talking to youth workers,” she said.
“Already in Bendigo the program has reached more than 440 people over five events which have taken place at Pugg Mahones, the National Hotel, the Golden Vine, La Trobe University and BRIT.
“A further three events have been planned for Bendigo which will hopefully see our local program go above and beyond the Frankston experience.”
Ms Donaldson said the program worked by setting up a stall at a participating venue where health workers talk to passers by
and run quizzes about alcohol use and safe sex.
“By simply answering a few questions correctly participants have the opportunity to win free prizes of drink holders, glow sticks, temporary tattoos, wrist bands and key chains,” she said.
The program will continue at Bendigo Senior Secondary College as part of Youth Week on April 10 from 12 to 2pm and La Trobe University on April 24 from 12 to 2pm.
The Safest Ride program is an initiative of the City of Greater Bendigo, YSAS, Bendigo Community Health Service, Victoria Police, RoadSafe Central Victoria, Safer Community Forum and a number of local venues.