More than 25 locals completed and graduated from the driver education course at the recent presentation night after eight weeks of intensive training.

The program was the first of its kind in the Southern Highlands, and Ms Ballard helped to finish it off in fine style with her inspirational story of her journey to Paralympic glory.

The bubbly 21-year-old, who is a world champion sprinter in the 100m category for her class, discussed her burgeoning career as a wheelchair sprinter while sharing how she became a paraplegic after a serious car accident when she was seven.

Although she's been able to make the best out of her situation, Ms Ballard said the experience had made her keen to see more drivers become driver safety-savvy and felt DEAP was a great way to educate people.

"Even when you're the only person in the car...you've got a choice of how you will behave behind the wheel," she said.

"You've got to take responsibility for your actions."

As for her future prospects, Ms Ballard said she couldn't wait to compete in the Paralympic Games in Athens this year, where she hopes to go for gold in the 100m.

"I've been racing since I was 12...and I really want to go for it at the Para's, and make it a gold in (the 100m) event," she said.

Local residents and Wingecarribee Shire Council helped Ms Ballard further her quest for Paralympic gold by donating $650 to her Olympic coffers on the night.

As for the rest of the DEAP program, Mittagong Highway Patrol Senior Constable John Kane said the program had been a great success, with a lot of positive feedback from participants.

"Everybody has really enjoyed it and learned a lot from it, and have said that it should be compulsory for anyone who has a licence," he said.

The program will run another six-week course from April 29, which could possibly be the last in the Wingecarribee Shire for this year as there are plans to move the course up to Wollondilly Shire.

To register for the program visit Bowral Police Station or call Chris Roberson on 0414629299, Greg Duffy on 0247540023, or Chris Spilarewicz on 48680708.