Warrumbungle Shire Mayor Peter Shinton drew Brian's name from more than 330 entries at the recent prize draw in Coonabarabran. 

Mayor Shinton also drew the winning participating business entry; Enterprise Store at Carcoar and the selfie competition winner Hayley Lamborun from QLD who enjoyed a free cuppa at Robin's Nest Cafe and Gift in Dubbo.

The Free Cuppa for the Driver scheme was operational between March 1 and May 31 this year, which included the April school holidays and the Easter long weekend.

During that time more than 1700 free cuppas were given away.

The scheme incorporated 14 local councils and 70 local businesses across the western region of NSW.

The scheme encouraged travelling motorists to stop at participating businesses from Bathurst to Moree (and further) for a free cup of coffee or tea in order to take a break from driving long distances.

Driver feedback showed travellers who stopped for a free cuppa had come from all walks of life including truck drivers, commuters and tourists.

Travellers came not only from neighbouring regions, but interstate and overseas. 

Melanie Suitor (Parkes, Forbes and Lachlan Shire Councils' Road Safety and Injury Prevention Officer) explained that the scheme was established to combat fatigued driving in a region where there are long expanses of road between towns and cities.

“People visiting from other regions and indeed other countries may not have travelled in areas where great distances between towns are prevalent,” she said.

Consequently they may be unfamiliar with the conditions and the risks of driving fatigued. 

“The Free Cuppa for the Driver scheme aims to encourage drivers to stop and take a break as well as recognise the early warning signs of fatigue like yawning, restlessness, poor concentration and tired eyes.

“This project would not have been possible without our enthusiastic businesses and their feedback has been encouraging and helpful in the planning of the 2016 phase,” Ms Suitor said.