News Archive
ACT Budget and Cycling Posted: Tuesday, 5 May 2009
Read our press release about the ACT 2009/20 Budget and what is will do for cycling.
Website Survey Posted: Friday, 7 November 2008
Thanks to all those who participated in the website survey during November. Your input is valuable and will be used by the Website Review Team to advise the Council on the way forward.
Pedal Power Election Forum Report Posted: Tuesday, 7 October 2008
Cycling: What will the Politicians DO? - Election Forum REPORT 7 Oct
7 October 2008
Cycling – Liberals make funding promises while Labor stands on its record
At a cycling election forum held last night, ACT Labor declined the opportunity to match funding commitments given by the ACT Liberals and instead choose to stand on its record. The ‘Cycling – what will politicians do?’ forum was held at Pilgrim House in Civic and attended by 230 people.
ACT Liberals spokesman, Brendan Smyth, reiterated the funding commitments the ACT Liberals gave in their cycling policy which was launched last Friday. The Liberal policy contains $4 million for new capital works, $900,000 for cycle path signage, $2.1 million for maintenance, and $120,000 for bicycle lockers at bus stations.
Labor spokesman, Simon Corbell, instead focussed on Labor’s record covering bicycle racks on buses, bicycle parking guidelines for buildings, the Downer-Woden cycle lanes and recent funding for projects including Cotter Road bicycle lanes, Jerrabomberra Wetlands cycle path and State Circle. Simon Corbell also criticised the ACT Liberals for its past record of opposing cycle lanes.
Pedal Power spokesman, Tony Shields, said the forum presented a clearer choice between the main parties. ‘The Liberal Party is prepared to make funding promises into the future whereas the Labor Party is saying “look at our record”.’
The minor parties, ACT Greens, Canberra Party, and Community Alliance Party all supported Pedal Power’s three policies of building, signing and maintaining Canberra’s cycle network. The ACT Greens were represented by their Molonglo candidate, Shane Rattenbury, who spoke about his experiences cycling in Amsterdam compared to Canberra. Richard Mulcahy of the Canberra Party spoke about his work for cycling in the Legislative Assembly.
In the next few days, Pedal Power will present a detailed appraisal of the parties’ cycling policies to its 2000 members.
Media inquiries: Tony Shields 6262 5150, 0418 676801
Canberra, THE Cycling Capital Posted: Tuesday, 6 May 2008
The ACT Government announced its support today for cycling in the national capital with the further expansion of cycling infrastructure.. read all about it!
Cordon Count Results Posted: Wednesday, 12 March 2008
There has been a 48% increase in cycling into the city and ANU since 2004. Read all about it in the report.
2008-09 ACT Budget Pedal Power Activities Posted: Monday, 14 January 2008
Sustainable Transport Plan Posted: Thursday, 1 November 2007
Pedal Power has released a review of the sustainable transport plan. Read the media release
Light up ... and Live Posted: Monday, 14 May 2007
Our latest Media Release says it all Documents: Document (Light up and live medai release)
Annual Report for 2006 Posted: Thursday, 15 February 2007
Raw Deal for Commuters Posted: Friday, 5 January 2007
Pedal Power has been arguing the case, but there are big changes coming to compensation payments for accidents whilst commuting, and at other times; especially if you work for the ACT or Commonwealth Governments
Sustainable Transport Report Card Posted: Sunday, 31 December 2006
Pedal Power releases its Report Card on transport issues
A new Cycling tourism Guide Posted: Tuesday, 12 September 2006

The NRMA has released a new guide to cycle touring with 75 rides in NSW. Get your copy from Pedal Power at the special price of $18 in the office, or $20 posted to anywhere in Australia. Click here to buy your copy online
BIG QUEANBEYAN BIKE RIDE Posted: Saturday, 2 September 2006
Pedal Power, in conjunction with Queanbeyan City Council is pleased to announce The Big Queanbeyan Bike Ride is on again during NSW Bike Week on Sunday September 24, 2006
Read all about it, Click on the flier below for all the information. You can enter on the day at the start. online entries have closed.
Please note, online entrants will need to sign a disclaimer on the day.
Entering on the day is $5 more than entering online. Documents: Flyer (Big Qbn Bike Ride)
Ride to Work Day Posted: Friday, 1 September 2006
Ride to Work Thirty Four ACT workplaces (LISTED BELOW) have already registered for National Ride to Work Day on Wed 4 Oct.
READ ON to discover how you might still participate
The first step was to register the workplace on the National RTW website www.ride2work.com.au. When registered, a workplace RTW kit comprising promotional posters, postcards and support material for new riders was sent. Pedal Power was advised that the workplace was registered on the national RTW site (managed by Bicycle Victoria) and supplementary materials specific to the ACT were provided.
If your workplace was registered, individuals should register on the above website before the RTW day on 4th October as well so that they can be counted for the workplace to be eligible for the prizes on offer and so that Pedal Power can build the event in 2007 and beyond.
Individuals who register go in the draw to win prizes including a commuter bike valued at over $1000. The Pedal Power contact for National RTW day is the Executive Director,
| CSIRO |
| Office of Workplace Services |
| CARE Australia |
| Murray Darling Basin Commission |
| Department of Education, Science and Training |
| Australian National Botanic Gardens |
| AIATSIS |
| Office of the ASCC |
| CSIRO Sustainable Ecosystems |
| Department of Territory and Municipal Services |
| Australian Labor Party |
| Veterans' Affairs |
| Therapeutic Goods Administration |
| Department of Familes, Community Services and Indigenous Affairs |
| Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs |
| Department of Health and Ageing |
| CANFaCS Inc. |
| IBM Australia |
| UNSW@ADFA |
| National Gallery of Australia |
| The Australian National University |
| DIGO |
| RAAF Management Services Agency |
| Dept. of Foreign Affairs & Trade |
| Department of Industry, Tourism and Resources |
| Department of the Prime Minister and Cabinet |
| ACT Legislative Assembly |
| Department of Immigration and Multicultural Affairs - ACT and Regions Office |
| Land & Water Australia |
| University of Canberra |
| ACT Health |
Christmas in July Posted: Friday, 14 July 2006
AND A GREAT TIME WAS HAD BY ALL,despite coolish,dampish weather
Why not lash out! Have Christmas twice in a year.
Winter Solstice celebration Posted: Friday, 23 June 2006
Download and Print a registration form (below) to fax or post to the office (sorry, no online entry this time)
Recent Media Releases Posted: Monday, 5 June 2006
Pedal Power Recent Media Releases
UPDATE on how the Sustainable transport plan is going
Planning for Spring Posted: Friday, 28 April 2006
Bikes on Racks on Buses Posted: Tuesday, 11 April 2006
Breakfast with the Balloons Posted: Tuesday, 11 April 2006
Cycling for Fun Special Programme Posted: Friday, 24 March 2006
Pedal Power announces a special programme targeted at those who suffer from or have a disposition to diabetes. It is also open to those who feel the overall programme may suit their need to be more confident about cycling. This programme starts on April 5, so hurry and register now!
Please check the Timetable and Registration forms below. Documents: Document (Cycling for fun registration) Document (Cycling for fun timetable)
Council News Posted: Friday, 10 March 2006
Please write to the president with comments.
Cordon Count Results Posted: Sunday, 5 March 2006
Pedal Power conducted its third 'Cordon Count' on Feb 26th.
Click on the filename below to read the report.
Documents: Document (Cordon Count Report 2006)
Big Canberra Bike Ride Posted: Tuesday, 21 February 2006
Path Signage needed Posted: Thursday, 9 February 2006
Pedal Power again makes a case for path signage.
Read all about it
MEDIA RELEASE, Pedal Power ACT Inc 9 February 2005
Cycle path signage needed Pedal Power today called for funding for cycle path signage in the ACT 2006-07 Budget. Pedal Power spokesman Tony Shields said, ‘The ACT Government has, to its credit, carried out a number of initiatives that have increased cycling. Improved signage would lead to further increases.’ ‘Canberra has over 350 kilometres of cycle paths. Unfortunately much of it is not signposted. This discourages both new users and regular cyclists from using our cycle paths more often.’ Mr Shields said Pedal Power runs courses for adults to develop their cycling skills and often the participants say, ‘We just don’t know where we are going’. Mr Shields said signposting Canberra’s paths would also increase tourism. ‘Canberra’s cycle paths should not be a puzzle only known to locals. Signposting the paths would open the paths to visitors to investigate Canberra further by riding to the lakes at Tuggeranong, Belconnen and Gungahlin, the restaurants at Dickson, the tourism attractions at Federation Square, and many other attractions without getting lost.’ In 2004 the ACT Government adopted a Sustainable Transport Plan which targets an increase in cycling. Mr Shields said signage would be an inexpensive way for the Government to achieve its cycling targets. Mr Shields also said the ACT Government recently released a revised cycle map that highlights a number of quiet street routes. ‘The quiet street routes are a good idea, but it would be a lot better if they were signed so people knew where they are.’ A new version of the ACT’s cycle engineering design guidelines is expected to be finalised later this year and will include standards for cycle signage. Mr Shields said that this will make it easier to implement signage. Pedal Power has over 1600 members and its mission is ‘More Canberrans cycling, more often, for a better community.’
For more details and photo opportunities call: Tony Shields 6262 5150, 0418 67 68 01
Latest E-Bulletin Posted: Wednesday, 18 January 2006
POSITION VACANT Posted: Saturday, 7 January 2006
New Executive Officer
Pedal Power pleased to announce the appointment of John Graydon as the Executive Officer of the organisation. He will start early in January, 2007
More Bikes than Cars.....AGAIN Posted: Friday, 6 January 2006
Read the Pedal Power media release about another recoed year of bike sales. Big question is ....where do they all go? Documents: Document (more bikes than cars MR)
Illawarra Escape Posted: Wednesday, 4 January 2006
Take a break ,
Breaking News Posted: Monday, 26 December 2005
The launch of the East Gippsland Rail Trail extension Nowa Nowa to Orbost will be held on Saturday January 28th 2006 at Nowa Nowa.
If you are interested in going along to this special event, call Jeff on 6281 5920
Member get Member Posted: Tuesday, 6 December 2005
Pedal Power would like to boost membership.
Between December05 and January06, those members who get a new member will be entered into a draw for a $500 open order at REBEL Sports Belconnen and Woden.
Be sure to have your name and membership number noted on either the membership form you received with the latest Canberra Cyclist magazine, or in the COMMENTS section of an online membership payment
Put your Bike on the bus Posted: Monday, 5 December 2005
Put your bike on the bus!
On Thursday, 17 November, ACTION launched the start of bike racks on buses. The bike racks are on 300 series inter-town buses. For more information including a video on how easy the racks are to use.
Another Pedal Power initiative gets results Posted: Sunday, 4 December 2005
RUSSELL UNDERPASS Funded
Read our Press Release on this issue
These are initiatives strongly advocated by Pedal Power.
Documents: Flyer (Russell Underpass Good news)
Tumburrumba Weekend Away Posted: Thursday, 1 December 2005
The Brindabella Challenge Posted: Wednesday, 30 November 2005
Pedal Power is a major participant in the first 3-day Brindabella Challenge. This is an exciting event designed to attract cyclists to Canberra and the region to join with locals in experiencing the great facilities for cycling in the national capital. Why not check it all out and invite some friends to vist and take part?
Fitz's Challenge INFO only Posted: Wednesday, 16 November 2005
FITZ's CHALLENGE is on again, The premiere event in the Pedal Power calendar! This is where you experience some of the region's best climbs and descents on sealed roads. Choose between 4 ride options.
Held on November 20..........note the significant date change.
WEB ENTRY NOW CLOSED, Please enter on the day....be early!
NOTE : Bridgework on the Tharwa Bridge crossing the Murrumbidgee River means that only one lane is open. Participants should include this information in planning to arrive for the event.
NOTE: T-Shirts no longer available as an on-line purchase. A very lmited number may be available on the day
Pedal Power 30th Birthday Posted: Sunday, 6 November 2005
9 November 2005
Pedal Power born, the day Gough was sacked
Canberra cycling group Pedal Power is turning 30 this Friday, the same day that marks 30 years since the Whitlam Government was dismissed.
Pedal Power spokesman, Tony Shields, said the coincidence of dates is quite surprising
‘At the same day in Canberra that one official was reading out a proclamation stating ended a Government, another one was signing the certificate of incorporation that began Pedal Power.”
Mr Shields said Pedal Power has grown considerabley since then. ‘We have approximately 1600 members which is probably more than the Labor Party in the ACT and the Liberal Party for matter,’ said Mr Shields
Pedal Power’s mission is More Canberrans cycling, more often, for a better community. It does in two major ways. It runs around 150 non-competitive bicycle rides a year including the Big Canberra Bike Ride in March and the Fitz’s Challenge in November. It also advocates for facilities and programs that will enable and encourage more Canberrans to cycle more often. It has successfully advocated for the Dickson-Woden cycle lanes, a 50 km/h speed limit for residential and shopping streets, better bicycle parking requirements and improved cycle paths
Mr Shields said Pedal Power had caused quite a few relationships to flower, including his own. ‘We met on a Pedal Power seven years ago and now we live together with six bikes in the garage. It is a bit tragic really.’
Pedal Power is having a birthday BBQ at Nara Park (Lennox Gardens) behind the Hyatt Hotel this Saturday, starting at 1pm. Old members as well as new are all invited
For more details: Tony Shields 6262 5150 0418 6768 01 (for media use only).
Ride to Work Day Results Posted: Wednesday, 26 October 2005
26 October 2005
11km cycle to work is average
Canberra cycling group Pedal Power has said that Canberra’s cycling commuters ride an average of eleven kilometres to work.
Pedal Power spokesman, Tony Shields, was commenting on its survey of participants in its Ride to Work Day held on Wednesday, 5 October
‘We surveyed 451 people who rode to work on that day and they rode an average of 11.3 kilometres to work and, of course, they rode back home as well,’ said Mr Shields.
‘These people are fit, healthy and happier because they ride to work. And with petrol around $1.30 a litre they are also wealthier as well,’ said Mr Shields
Pedal Power’s Ride to Work Day involved 28 workplaces in Canberra where people celebrated riding to work by having breakfast together as well as winning prizes for the most distance cycled.
Mr Shields said the great thing about cycling to work is that it doesn’t require people to find extra time in their day to exercise.
‘Over 50 per cent of Australian adults are overweight, and therefore at greater risk of heart disease, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. Many people try to get active, but they can’t find the extra time to fit it in. The great thing about cycling to work or to the shops is that you don’t need extra time. It just becomes part of your daily routine.’
Mr Shields said cycle sales have jumped since petrol prices rose in late August, ‘People realise that complaining about petrol prices won’t make you feel any better, but cycling to work will.’
Mr Shields said filling in the missing links in Canberra’s cycling network is an important step to encouraging people to cycle to work.
‘A number of projects have been completed but there are still missing links. A cycling and walking underpass near Russell roundabout and putting signs on Canberra’s bike paths so people don’t get lost are important projects,’ said Mr Shields.
Mr Shields said the average distance of 11.3 kilometres of work was consistent with a Ride to Work survey in Victoria, which found people cycled an average of 10 kilometres to work.
For more details: Tony Shields 6262 5150 0418 6768 01 (for media use only).
Curtin Path Media Release Posted: Thursday, 15 September 2005
14 September 2005
Cycle path demolition blamed on past lack of maintenance
Canberra cycling group, Pedal Power, has blamed the recent demolition of a cycle path in North Curtin on low maintenance spending on cycle paths by past governments.
Pedal Power spokesman, Tony Shields, said Canberra’s cycle paths and footpaths had been deteriorating over time because governments of both political sides had failed to spend adequate money maintaining them.
Mr Shields said, ‘Canberra was handed a cycle path network in good condition at self government but it has been deteriorating since, as successive governments have failed to maintain it adequately.’
Mr Shields said the recent case of a cycle path in North Curtin that was ripped out because it was in such a poor state of repair, was a symptom of this. After community pressure, the path is now to be replaced.
‘The government decided that it was in such a poor state of repair that it had to be ripped up. The fact is, it shouldn’t have been allowed to deteriorate to such a standard’, said Mr Shields. ‘We are also concerned at the lack of public consultation on this issue,’ Mr Shields added.
The path runs from North Curtin oval to the top of Jennings St in Curtin.
Mr Shields said that in this year’s ACT Budget, increased money was allocated to maintaining cycle paths and footpaths but much more needed to be done. Tree roots on cycle paths are a particularly dangerous said Mr Shields.
In their report card on the ACT’s infrastructure released last month, the Institute of Engineers said that 18 per cent of Canberra’s footpaths and cycle paths need immediate attention to bring them up to a reasonable standard. ‘This highlights the deterioration in standards that has occurred,’ added Mr Shields.
(The Institute of Engineers report card can be found at http://www.ieaust.org.au/policy/res/downloads/publications/ACTReportCard.pdf)
This revises a media release sent out earlier today.
Media inquiries: Tony Shields Pedal Power ACT 6262 5150, 0418 67 68 01
New Cycling (and Walking) Map Posted: Thursday, 11 August 2005
A NEW Cycling and Walking Map (with trunk bus routes) has been released and is available from Pedal Power. The price is the same posted to anywhere in the world.Go to our merchandise pages and get your copy now!
Narooma as a destination? Posted: Thursday, 21 July 2005
Members and browsers might like to have a look at the advances being made for cycle tourism on the South Coast.
Pedal Power Cycling Jersey Posted: Friday, 8 April 2005
Pedal Power has created a cycling jersey for members to wear on their cycling trips. Long and short sleeved versions in a range of sizes are now available either from the office or they can be prepaid via the website merchandise page. Until we get the sizing system worked out, they must be collected from the office.
INSURANCE ARRANGEMENTS Posted: Thursday, 7 April 2005
Personal Accident Insurance
UPGRADE your existing membership now by getting cover for the remainder of your membership year.
From right now, new memberships will include Personal Accident Cover if the new fee has been paid. Renewing members will automatically acquire Personal Accident Cover upon paying the new membership rate. This is not an opt-out service.
Existing members who have financial membership remaining will be offered the opportunity to upgrade membership to include personal accident cover. This will be found on a separate page of the online purchasing facility after April 1.
For full details go to:
THE Biggest Canberra Bike Ride Posted: Tuesday, 22 March 2005
Nearly 900 riders took part in the Canberra Connect Big Canberra Bike Ride, on March 21, celebrating the city's birthday by cycling 25 kms through the heart of Canberra. Here are a few pictures.
 
SPECIAL eBULLETIN Posted: Friday, 25 February 2005
Pedal Power Special Bulletin - Friday 25th February 2005
Build a Missing Cycle Link/Fix a cycle path
The ACT Government is deciding its budget for 2005-06 now. The ACT Government is committed to increasing cycling and has committed $1 million to build missing cycle links this year. However more is needed to build the many missing cycle links and to fix Canberra's deteriorating cycle paths. Pedal Power has made its budget submission but your input would help a lot. With over 1700 members we can make a difference if you can help out.
It would great if you could spend five minutes to send an email to the: Minister for Urban Services - John Hargreaves; the Minister for Transport - Simon Corbell; and the Treasurer - Ted Quinlan. The email addresses are hargreaves@act.gov.au, corbell@act.gov.au, quinlan@act.gov.au and cc it to advocacy@pedalpower.org.au.
To make things concrete you could highlight a project in Pedal Power's Top 20 Missing Cycle Links at http://www.pedalpower.org.au/advocacy/briefs.asp or mention your own project/ pet cycle path problem. Below is a possible format for the email. Please pass this email on to other interested cyclists
Dear Ministers Hargreaves, Corbell and Quinlan
I would like to thank you for your efforts to increase cycling. I am writing to ask that you provide funding of $2 million in the 2005-06 ACT Budget to build Canberra's missing cycle links. Adequate funding is also required for maintenance and repairs to Canberra's cycle path network. In particular, I strongly think that (insert description of project) should be built/fixed because it is very difficult/dangerous to cycle along this section now.
Your name Your address
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PP is committed to representing the interests of all cyclists in the Canberra region. We welcome your comments on any issue:
Annual general meeting Over! Posted: Wednesday, 23 February 2005
The Annual General Meeting was held at The Yamba Sports Club FEB 23, 7.30 pm. About 45 members attended and adopted the new rules as circulated previously to all members.
John Widdup was elected President. The details of the newly elected Council will be distributed vie the ebulletin next week.
Here is John at The NSW RTA Big Ride in Queanbeyan wearing the new PP Ride jersey.
Capital Works Suggestion Database Posted: Tuesday, 22 February 2005
The Capital Works Suggestion Database compiled from members information is availble for study by clicking here. It clearly shows the diversity of issues surrounding cycling in Canberra, and demonstrates that PP is not just about onroad cycle lanes.....
A Million Bikes! Posted: Thursday, 27 January 2005
The Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF) recently released the following information.
MEDIA RELEASE
Bicycles outsell cars in Australia
- sales top 1 million (again)
Australians bought more bicycles than motor vehicles in 2004, according to official figures released today by the motor and bicycle industries.
Bicycle sales in Australia topped 1.1 million for the third straight year of million-plus sales.
The Cycling Promotion Fund (CPF), Australia’s peak bicycle promotional body, said bike sales totalled 1,128,306 – 18 per cent ahead of the motor vehicles total of 955,229.
CPF program director Rosemarie Speidel said Australians the main reasons for the booming popularity of bicycles in Australia were fitness, fun and family.
“Fitness is the biggest reason why people start riding – though often they are really returning to something they used to do, because most Australians rode bicycles as children,” she said.
“But people want their exercise to be fun, and they want more family time in their busy lives, so cycling offers a way to get fit while doing something that can be fun for the whole family.
“The car industry itself has contributed to bike sales, with BMW and Porsche now selling bikes, plus traditional bike manufacturers such as Peugeot.
“Overall, bikes have consistently outsold cars in Australia for the past five years, and that is surely a good thing for the health and fitness of Australians.”
|
Year |
Motor vehicles * |
Bicycles ** |
Bikes’ lead |
|
2000 |
787,100 |
926,924 |
+ 17% |
|
2001 |
772,681 |
774,938 |
+0.3 % |
|
2002 |
824,309 |
1,109,736 |
+ 34 % |
|
2003 |
909,811 |
1,003,844 |
+ 10 % |
|
2004 |
955,229 |
1,128,306 |
+ 18 % |
|
* VFACTS figures
** Customs Service import figures |
Media inquiries: Rosemarie Speidel – 0407 537 760
Ian Christie – 0431 770 982
Pedal Power New Rules Posted: Monday, 24 January 2005
The Annual general meeting held on Feb 23 adopted the new rules, as outlined in this previous news item.
Pedal Power has recently undertaken a review of its Rules (Constitution). It is proposed to put a new set of rules to the membership at the Annual General Meeting on Feb 23, 7.30 pm at the YAMBA SPORTS CLUB , Irving St Phillip. All members are invited to attend. The proposed rules are available here. (175kb PDF) Every member will receive a copy of the proposed rules with the next edition of the Canberra Cyclist. early in February 2005
The Pedal Power Committee undertook the review of the constitution (rules). The intention was to modernise the rules especially regarding finances, now that PP is committed to electronic banking. In addition, this review provided an opportunity to correct some residual errors from the previous changes (Feb 2002) and to embody certain ways the organisation currently does business. A new constitution simplifies and/or clarifies how PP works and will enhance the community standing of the organisation.
If you have an interest in matters constitutional, and would like to comment on the proposal, please email the president.
The present constitution may be found under the 'About' tab at governance.
Latest Rides and Events Calendar Posted: Monday, 24 January 2005
The lastest consolidated Rides and Events calendar. This will be distributed with the next magazine.....REMINDER stuffing night is feb 1
Tour de Dirt Posted: Saturday, 1 January 2005
NATIONAL SERIES MOUNTAIN BIKING COMES TO THE ACT
Le Tour de Dirt Gets 2005 Started
It’s time to get ready for Le Tour de Dirt – the first big Mountain Bike event in the ACT for 2005.
What is Le Tour de Dirt
Le Tour de Dirt provides national series off-road cycling with three stages over two days. Australia’s best mountain bike riders will compete in round four while local and interstate enthusiasts will contest expert, sport and club categories. Staged in Kowen Forest near Queanbeyan on the weekend of January 15 and 16, 2005 the stages are designed for spectator advantage.
More details at
Tony Winterbottom
CORC PR (also a Pedal Power member).
02 62627277
0414223060
Christmas in July Posted: Saturday, 25 December 2004
Pedal Power celebrated Christmas...in July.
Many members took the opportunity to let their hair down with good friends, great food, giggle fun and spectacular scenery!
The view from Fitzroy Falls lookout
Great Food and good company
Santa in a reflective suit?
The games people play!
Ministerial Media Release: Share the Road Posted: Wednesday, 8 December 2004
MEDIA RELEASE
The Hon Jim Lloyd MP
Minister for Local Government,
Territories and Roads
08 December 2004
L60/2004
MOTORISTS AND CYCLISTS MUST SHARE THE ROAD
There are around 2500 cyclists seriously injured on the public road
system each year according to a new statistical report by the Australian
Transport Safety Bureau, Cycle Safety: A National Perspective.
Releasing the report today, Minister for Local Government, Territories
and Roads, Jim Lloyd, called for motorists and cyclists to share the
road.
"Cycling is an important form of transport and recreation for many
people in the community," Mr Lloyd said.
"It is important that motorists recognise the rights of cyclists to use
the road and be considerate."
"It is equally important for cyclists to know their responsibilities on
the road and follow the rules."
"While we shouldn't ignore the risks of cycling, we should also
recognise the significant benefits regular cycling can provide to the
community," he said.
"Cycling should be encouraged as it can provide significant
environmental and health benefits."
"The National Cycling Strategy, Australia Cycling: the National
Strategy, 1999-2004 recognises these benefits and my department supports
the implementation of the strategy through the Australian Bicycle
Council." Mr Lloyd said.
The ATSB report summarises some of the key cycling safety indicators.
Key findings of the report include:
* Cyclists account for around 2 per cent of road deaths and 11 per cent
of seriously injured each year.
* In 2003, cycling was the fourth most popular physical activity among
people aged 15 years and older.
* There is considerable evidence that the overall community benefits
from cycling are likely to outweigh the loss of life through cycling
accidents.
Cycle Safety: A National Perspective can be obtained from the ATSB's web
------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------
Media Contacts
Graeme Hallett ( Minister Lloyd's Office ) 0419 688 440
Public Seminar....End of Trip Facilities Posted: Wednesday, 8 December 2004
Pedal Power, in collaboration with Bicycle Victoria will present a special Seminar at the National Library on Bicycle parking and End of Trip Bicycle facilities.
DECEMBER 9, 2 to 5.30 pm
It is targetting Building managers and designers. However, there will be a special session for Ride to Work Co-ordinators and all Seminar participants as well, after the seminar. All welcome, but prior regitration is essential. Contacy the Office for more details:
phone 2487995
Have a look at the information flier and register now!
Documents: Flyer (End of Trip Facilities Seminar)
Cordon Count report Posted: Monday, 6 December 2004
The detailed March 2004 Cordon Count Report is available for study here
Did you ride in Fitz's on Oct 31? Posted: Tuesday, 2 November 2004
If you rode in Fitz's, or any of the other Challenges on October 31, then chances are that you were photographed. There were over 1300 images taken on the day, and they are all viewable on the photgrapher's website, so why not have a look and relive the moment!
New Cycle Markings Posted: Monday, 1 November 2004
New on-road markings have recently been applied to the junction of London Cirecuit and Commonwealth Ave.
Tumba Weekend Away Posted: Monday, 1 November 2004
National Ride to Work Day Posted: Wednesday, 6 October 2004
Pedal Power in collaboration with Bicycle Victoria has claimed October 6 to be the first "National" Ride to Work Day, and encourages people to ride to work that day and every day if possible for a healthier community.
To support riders in that endeavour, PP will host a Ride to Work breakfast at Veterans Park on Northbourne Ave from 7.30 till 8.30am. Full details are in our online calendar. Why not encourage your workmates to join you at breakfast, and then ride to work together?
Download your own poster from the document list to advertise this event Documents: Flyer (RTW Poster (High Resolution, 1.1MB)) Flyer (RTW Poster (Low resolution 100 kb))
Festival of Cycling UPDATE Posted: Saturday, 2 October 2004
We are nearly all the way through the Festival for this year, Why not examine the brochure and pick your next event right now?
Documents: Document (Medai release, Festival of Cycling)
Latest Media Release Posted: Thursday, 23 September 2004
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