Canberra Rides for 50 Years of Pedal Power
Last Thursday, more than a hundred riders joined Pedal Power’s 50th Anniversary Celebration and Demonstration Ride from Woden to Civic, a vibrant, uplifting reminder of how strong and connected Canberra’s cycling community has become.
With 142 registrations and almost the same number rolling in, the gathering at Eddison Park had a real sense of anticipation. Executive Director Cecily Michaels opened the event by welcoming riders, acknowledging the Ngunnawal people, and recognising the MLAs who came to support the ride, including Andrew Braddock, Fiona Carrick and Jo Clay. Cecily also shared a message from Andrew Leigh, who reflected on the legacy of Canberra’s first protest ride in 1974 and the enormous progress made since.
Before setting off, long-time advocate Jeff Ibbotson outlined the ongoing push for a safe, separated bike lane between Woden and Civic, highlighting why this link is so critical, especially with Light Rail Stage 2B approaching. His message was simple: a safe route between South Canberra and the city centre cannot wait.
Ride leader and long-term Pedal Power advocate and Board Member, John Widdup, guided the group along the way, pausing at key points to share insights from decades of consultations and design work. The ride offered a rare glimpse into the persistence and patience behind every improvement in Canberra’s cycling network.
The celebration at Lennox Gardens brought everyone together over pide, dips, fruit and plenty of good conversation and great tunes thanks to Paris Lord from Canberra By Bike, who provided music along the route and at the park, entertaining those who stayed on to chat, relax and even have a dance. Long-standing and new members alike spoke about how meaningful it felt to be part of such a moment - honouring the past while showing up for the future.
To close the evening, Pedal Power President Rosemary Dupont wrapped up proceedings at Lennox Gardens, acknowledging the many people who have shaped our organisation over five decades and thanking everyone for being part of this historic celebration.
If you weren’t able to join us, you can enjoy the atmosphere and energy from the day in our short memory reel here!
As we close our 50th anniversary year, this ride stands as a tribute to the many people who’ve shaped Pedal Power’s story - and as a reminder that the work continues to make Canberra a city where anyone can ride any bike, anytime, anywhere.
