Combat driver fatigue with a free cuppa

Eurobodalla residents travelling more than 100km from home have until Friday 31 May to take advantage of the Free Cuppa for the Driver scheme.

The program aims to help combat driver fatigue - one of the three big killers on NSW roads – by encouraging drivers to stop and take a break.

Participating businesses around NSW offer a free cup of coffee or tea to drivers who have travelled 100km or more from home.

Council’s road safety officer Kate McDougall said five Eurobodalla businesses were participating for the first time this year - The Steampacket Hotel at Nelligen, Fresh A.F Café in Batemans Bay, Red Rose Café in Moruya, Meads ABC Bakery in Narooma and Chews on Hughes in Batemans Bay.

“Drivers have told our participating businesses they’re grateful for the program, while participating businesses are keen to keep it going – they just need help in spreading the word that it’s available,” she said.

“We encourage residents to remind their visitors they are entitled to a free cuppa, while locals travelling more than 100km from home – whether they drive a car, caravan or even a truck - are welcome to get themselves a free cuppa at a range of participating businesses across the state.”

Participating businesses have identifying signage with the Free Cuppa logo, or travellers can search www.freecuppa.com.au or the Free Cuppa for the Driver Facebook Page.

“Even though Free Cuppa for the Driver runs from 1 March until 31 May, drivers of all types of vehicles should take regular breaks year-round and rest when they notice the early signs of fatigue, which include yawning, tired eyes and poor concentration,” Ms McDougall said.

For more information contact the Free Cuppa team via www.freecuppa.com.au or contact Eurobodalla Council’s road safety officer Kate McDougall on 4474 1353 or email [email protected]