Lester takes the wheel at Lakeside

A 20-year hiatus from driving flew out the window, as Lester Miles jumped in the driver’s seat at the Blind Driving Day Experience at Lakeside Raceway in May.

The Zillmere father of four, and grandfather of 11, who is legally blind, said he had an “absolutely brilliant” time behind the wheel of the dual control silver 2008 Mitsubishi Lancer.

As his sons Lester jnr and Conrad watched from the sidelines, Lester and his ACE Driving School instructor lapped the raceway, hitting speeds of 90km/h and overtaking other vehicles.

“It was a real thrill to feel that driving experience again. It was the first time in 20 years for me, and the first time my instructor had ever had to instruct a blind person- so I think it was probably a bit more thrilling for him too,” Lester said.

“He caught himself pointing and giving me hand signals in the beginning, but he soon got the hang of it… telling me the degrees to turn the wheel, when to slow down, distance to corners.

“My sons’ suggestions of adjusting my mirrors was less helpful.”

Usually teamed with Guide Dog ‘Kenya’, Lester said ‘Kenya’ remained at home for the day not wanting to give him a complex about his future as guide and key navigator.

“I thought he may think his job’s on the line if he sees me behind the wheel,” he said.

Lester also managed to jump on a Harley for a ride around the track, courtesy of the Ulysses Bike Club, though this time safely in the pillion position.

“It’s a great day, with about 70 legally blind people getting the chance to sign up for a drive,” he said. The day is organised by Blind Citizens Queensland.

It’s the second-year the driving experience has been held at Lakeside, and Lester hopes it will continue for many more.