At Fifth Gear Motoring our motto is "GET THE DRIVER’S EDGE". It comes from our life-long passion for driver safety and education, motorsports, and being the best you can be - along with a belief that our public streets are not the place for risk-taking.
Fifth Gear Motoring provides driver training from the Learner driver stage to advanced and performance drivers and has a history of producing safe and defensive road users.
We teach drivers of all levels to be safe and proactive on the road. Our focus is on quality training and promoting safe attitudes to reduce risks. Our trainers are experienced with special needs like ASD and anxiety, and many are skilled working with vehicle modifications. We believe in creating a safe environment for everyone to enjoy driving while staying informed for everyday safety. Our team offers corporate and specialized training, tailored packages for businesses, and more. With our skilled team, we're confident we can meet your needs and ensure your satisfaction. Furthermore, we offer a range of course including courses for rehabilitation. We also specialise in vehicle modification for physical challenges such as hand controls, hoists, transferring and more.
About our Team
Meet our experienced and friendly team all of whom are passionate about driving and safety. Most of our trainers have experience working with Learners with Aspergers, Anxiety, and Learning difficulties and have had training with modifications such as spinner knobs and hand controls. Book in advance - all of our instructors are fully booked most of the time 4-5 weeks in advance. Once you have a spot - book in advance, so you won't have to wait that long again to get your next.
Daniel - Advanced Driver Trainer (Special Needs Instructor, Group Supervisor & Director) ACT ADI #256 - NSW ADI #013000
Daniel comes to Fifth Gear Motoring with a strong motorsports background and a passion for road safety, so his knowledge of driving is beyond what you will get from most driving instructors in Canberra. He has a positive outlook, a can-do attitude, and loves a challenge. His passion for driving is infectious, and he has the ability to motivate students to ask questions and to do their best. If you are a motorsports enthusiast you may like to ask him about his Bathurst experience! Daniel is accredited in both NSW and the ACT.
Kim Bessell – Automatic - City, Central, Weston Creek, Woden, Manuka, and Fyshwick ACT ADI #336 NSW ADI #015497
Having previously had very successful careers as a community pharmacist, in private and public companies, and at senior executive levels in the Australian Government Public Service, Kim has chosen to follow his passion for motoring. Kim is an accredited driving instructor in the ACT and NSW and also an internationally credentialled performance mindset coach. As a result of this background and experience, you will find Kim to be a skilled and compassionate communicator across all walks of life and all situations.
Kim takes an individualised approach to each student and modifies his teaching/coaching techniques to meet their learning needs. He is particularly interested in teaching students who think differently and so creates a safe and supportive space for neurodivergent students and those with learning difficulties or mental health issues so they can learn to become safe and competent drivers.
When not working as a driving instructor, you will find Kim strapped into the co-driver seat of a rally car calling pace notes at national and state level rallies on both dirt and tarmac across Australia. He is also a Gold level driver trainer for high performance driver education. This means that as your driving instructor, he is calm, clear, and understanding in all situations.
"Kim is an absolutely amazing instructor, always up for conversation and unbelievably understanding when you stuff up. He made me feel a lot more comfortable learning to drive especially with my anxiety."
Jonathon Martens (Jono) – Automatic - Gungahlin ACT ADI #337 & NSW AMR-001167
Jonathon provides constant dedication and support to deliver ultimate customer satisfaction, excellent results, and a strong inspiration for development. Jonathon started with Fifth Gear in mid-2019, however, he's very quickly become sought after and is always extremely busy in our northside suburbs. Parents and students alike brag about Jonathon’s teaching methods, and he is always highly recommended.
"Highly recommend 5th Gear Motoring to get your driving lessons. I passed my final drive today and I couldn’t be happier! Jono was an excellent teacher, he’s great at explaining things and gave me the confidence and skills to drive thank you Jono!"
Tom Chau - Automatic - Belconnen, Woden and Western Creek ACT ADI #411
Tom Chau is not just any driving instructor; he's an institution in himself with over a decade of experience in the industry. Known for his adept teaching techniques, what truly sets Tom apart is his unique ability to make every lesson enjoyable. For him, it's not merely about imparting driving skills but ensuring that every student has a great experience. Over the years, countless learners have transformed their nervousness into confidence under his guidance, making Tom a trusted name in driver education.
''I got my Ps today. My instructors Jonathon and Tom were just the best. Kept me calm and comfortable through out my lessons. Highly recommend them from fifth gear.''
Emma Burns - Automatic – Tuggeranong and Woden ACT ADI #425 & NSW AMR-000988
Emma is a patient teacher and maintains a safe and comfortable learning environment for all her students. Emma is an extremely popular instructor and is recommended for anyone experiencing any anxiety or nerves towards learning to drive. She strives to make every lesson a fun and positive experience whilst still teaching all the necessary skills to becoming a safe driver.
"My daughter was so nervous to start driving until she started lessons with Emma, she is now a safe and confident driver that loves driving and offers to drive everywhere. Can’t thank Emma enough!!"
Zia Niazi - Automatic – Gungahlin and the City ACT ADI #446 & NSW AMR-001096
Zia is a softly spoken driving instructor that is passionate about road safety. He is meticulous at organising his lessons and ensures they are personalised to benefit each student.
"My instructor Zia was amazing! He taught me so much and made sure I was comfortable, he made it so enjoyable! Very grateful and would recommend to anyone learning to drive!”
Ray Carson - Automatic – Tuggeranong and Woden ACT ADI #435 & NSW AMR-001143
Ray is an incredibly calm and kind driving instructor, making every lesson a relaxed and comfortable experience for his students. His patient demeanour helps learners feel at ease behind the wheel, fostering a positive environment for mastering driving skills. With Ray's guidance, students not only gain confidence but also develop a deep respect for safe and responsible driving practices.
"My driving instructor was Ray, he is patient, knowledgeable and experienced. I am a bit slow learner, but he always motivated me.”
Heba Ibrahim - Automatic – Fyshwick, Woden and Queanbeyan ACT ADI #451
Heba is a very encouraging driving instructor. She is extremely popular specifically with young female students as she is a young female instructor. She creates a comfortable calm environment to learn in. She is softly spoken and very supportive of her students.
"Heba is a great driving instructor. It’s so easy to learn from her as she makes sure to explain everything in a way I understand.”
Tristan Snow - Manual - Belconnen, Western Creek and Molonglo Valley ACT ADI #391 NSW ADI #16213
Tristan Snow is a highly experienced and passionate driver trainer, particularly known for his expertise in teaching manual transmission. He has a deep love for teaching and enjoys helping new drivers develop their skills and confidence on the road, especially when it comes to the mastery of manual transmission. Tristan's training style is patient, supportive, and focused on empowering his students to become confident, responsible, and safe drivers, regardless of whether they are operating a manual or automatic transmission vehicle. With years of experience in the industry, Tristan is well-versed in the latest driving regulations and best practices and incorporates this knowledge into his training sessions. His commitment to excellence and his passion for driver training make Tristan a sought-after instructor, especially for manual transmission.
"Our daughter had lessons with another driving school and had no confidence and felt like the lessons were going nowhere. Fifth Gear came highly recommended by my work colleagues. MacKenzie had lessons with Tristan and we saw her confidence grow instantly. She said he was easy to talk to, and could understand how 'her brain worked' and we are forever grateful that he was able to tailor her training to help her both gain driving confidence and also her P's! - We HIGHLY recommend Tristan, and the Fifth Gear Motoring team, thank you everyone." MacKenzie's Mum
Tony Prior - Manual Northside – Belconnen, the City and Gungahlin ACT ADI # 413 & NSW DIL 062523
Tony is not your typical driving instructor; he brings a unique blend of relatability and fun to every lesson. With his easy going nature and sense of humour, Tony creates an engaging atmosphere that makes learning to drive enjoyable. Students appreciate his ability to connect on a personal level, making the journey toward obtaining a license both educational and entertaining.
"For the last few months I have been taking driving lessons with your instructor, Tony Prior.
I just wanted to send this email to let you know that I had an incredibly positive experience with him and really enjoyed the lessons he gave! He is an incredibly thoughtful person who put a lot of effort into making me feel comfortable. He was a calming presence who used his in-depth knowledge to clearly explain and demonstrate road rules and skills in a comprehensible manner by using diagrams, matchbox cars, steering wheels, and also verbal communication.
He took extra time to provide explanations and tips for improvement without being degrading or invoking any sort of stress. I feel that he not only dramatically improved my driving skills, but also my confidence and capabilities on the road. He also took into account my personality and past experiences to adapt the lessons to my needs. I have a lot to thank him for and wanted to pass on this positive feedback to him and the rest of the team.
Thanks again for such a great experience with 5th Gear."
Dylan Barton – Manual Southside – Tuggeranong, Woden, Fyshwick, Kingston and Western Creek ACT ADI #417
Dylan is a driving instructor known for his kindness and expertise in teaching students with anxiety. His compassionate approach and understanding demeanour help anxious learners feel supported and empowered behind the wheel. With Dylan's gentle guidance and effective teaching techniques, even the most nervous drivers can gain confidence and overcome their fears on the road.
"Absolutely loved learning to drive with Dylan. He is an amazing instructor and has made learning to drive so much easier and more enjoyable. Can’t recommend him enough!!”
Chris Heiniger – Manual Southside – Tuggeranong, Woden, Fyshwick, Kingston, Western Creek, Queanbeyan and Jerrabomberra ACT ADI #408 & DIL 061828
Chris is the epitome of a fantastic driving instructor, characterized by his relaxed nature, patience, and kindness. His calm demeanor sets a welcoming tone for learning, while his exceptional patience allows students to advance comfortably. With Chris as their guide, learners feel supported and motivated, transforming the process of obtaining a driver's license into an enjoyable journey.
"Chris your teaching skills for my son Michael is of a very high standard."
James Gibson – Manual – Belconnen and the City ACT ADI #431
James is a driving instructor renowned for his extensive knowledge and personalized approach to lessons. With a deep understanding of driving principles, he tailors each session to the individual needs of his students, ensuring effective learning. James's commitment to providing a customized experience fosters confidence and skill development, making him a highly sought-after mentor for aspiring drivers.
"Just got my P’s, thank you so much James."
Tori - Administration
Tori is the voice on the other end of the Fifth Gear Motoring phone who will always do her best to answer your questions and provide you with quality customer service. She is the quiet achiever that keeps this well-oiled motor running.
"Everyone I dealt with at 5th Gear was highly professional, taking the time to listen to our needs. The website and payment system was super easy too. Thanks, 5th Gear - you are great!" Kylie Hoyland
Dean - Advanced Driver Trainer (Track and Group Supervisor & Director) ACT # 407 NSW ADI# 062013
Dean is the mastermind behind our plethora of courses, often seen running around at track days, special corporate events, school presentations and occasionally dropping into the learner cars also, to assist with our ACT Safer Driver Course and Beginner Drivers courses also. Dean has an incrediable history of working and managing teams, for corporate events and schools. A deep seated love and respect for the motorsport industry, and all the safety aspects that allow us to continue to enjoy cars no matter the format.