TAC and VTIC partner with Visitor Information Centres to extend the state’s ‘Pause Stop’ Program

The Victoria Tourism Industry Council (VTIC) has partnered with Victoria’s Transport Accident Commission (TAC) to extend the popular ‘Pause Stop’ program across Visitor Information Centres (VICs) throughout Victoria to be a permanent year-round resource for travellers on our roads. 

With Christmas and January holidays fast approaching many Victorian families and holiday seekers will be taking to the roads to reach their favourite regional holiday destination. 

The joint TAC and VTIC ‘Pause Stop’ campaign encourages motorists to plan their trip ahead of time and take regular breaks at one of the Visitor Centres on their route, providing activities for the kids and a range of resources available for a safe journey. 

Acting CEO of VTIC, Chris Porter, said this exciting partnership made perfect sense when driving holidays are such a huge part of the state’s visitation, particularly at this time of year. 

“Road travel is such a great way to explore our state and the partnership with TAC is such a natural fit. Aligning with the tourism industry and activating our connected Visitor Information network as a likely place to engage travellers, provide safe driving messages while they help visitors plan to get the most out of their stay in the regions,” he said. 

“Activating the VIC network provides TAC a platform to deliver critical road safety messages, while encouraging drivers to take regular breaks engaging visitors to connect with the local Visitor Information Centre, learn more about what to do in the region, and get tips on what to see along the way to their destination.” 

Quotes attributable to Transport Accident Commission CEO Tracey Slatter: “With more people travelling at this time of year, often with friends or family, and for longer periods, on unfamiliar roads, we are urging people to plan ahead and take pause stops along the way” 

“We’re calling on Victorians to put safety on the top of their ‘to do’ list this holiday season – let’s work together to avoid leaving another family and community mourning the senseless death of a loved one this Christmas.”

“Think of your family and friends and those you share the road with when you get behind the wheel this festive season, and make sure you’re prepared – avoid distractions, drive to the conditions, take regular breaks, and share the driving where possible.” 

The Visitor Centre Network is a wonderful platform to engage with the many thousands of people who stop at Visitor Information Centres each year, educating them on the dangers of drowsy driving and providing resources for a safe onward journey. 

The VTIC TAC partnership comes as Victorians get into the swingof school holidays and embark on family road trips across the state. Further information on the Pause Stop Visitor Information Centre locations and a map of their locations can be found via https://www.tac.vic.gov.au/road-safety/pausestop
* Anne Wright at a.wright@cprcomm.com.au