The Bundaberg Regional Cycling Reference Group aims to make Bundaberg the most cycle friendly region in Queensland.
Earlier this month, representatives from Bundaberg Regional Council, Bundaberg Regional Cycling Reference Group, Queensland Government and Bicycle Queensland met to discuss cycling initiatives.
Attending the meeting, Cr May Mitchell said Bicycle Queensland’s advocacy director Andrew Demack presented opportunities for the group to partner with Council on cycling education and events and support the proposed Active Transport Education Program.
“With Council’s considered planning of new pathways and roads while improving the safety of cyclists at the time of any upgrade or rehabilitation to existing roads, Bundaberg will be the perfect place to safely commute or hop on your bike for some exercise while enjoying the magnificent weather,” Cr Mitchell said.
“This program includes working with schools and the community to provide cycling education and awareness.”
Cr Mitchell said Andrew also discussed ideas about a Bike with Bundaberg Active Travel Day, which would celebrate cycling across the Bundaberg Region.
“This initiative has been successfully held in areas like Brisbane and with its advocacy and education, celebrates the depth and breadth of the active riding community while also supporting individuals new to riding,” Cr Mitchell said.
The event would be an opportunity to bring together and develop meaningful, collaborative relationships with key decision makers in a relevant and interactive platform that shows off the region as a vibrant destination.
Bundaberg Mad Cycologists president and Bundaberg Regional Cycling Reference Group member, Brendan Clancy, said with the Bundaberg Region’s ideal topography and short distances between places it was one of the best places in Queensland to commute by bike, and any support to get more people on two wheels was welcomed.
“Any support and information on how to get more people riding is great,” he said.
“It’s definitely a work in progress – a journey to get more people cycling – and the new ideas and fresh perspective from Bicycle Queensland is welcome.”
Brendan said every year new riders took part in the 20km City to Coast Community Bike Ride, and it was always pleasing to hear the positive comments once they had finished.
“Some of the riders never thought they could ride that far, but they hop off at the end after finding it quite enjoyable,” he said.
“The more people we can get riding around the region the better.”
He said for all road users it was important to treat each other with respect and to remember both cars and bicycles share the road.
- Other news: Have your say on Anzac Park precinct redevelopment
