Cycling Without Age at Amala – Bringing Joy, Connection, and Fresh Air

At Amala, the Cycling Without Age trishaw rides have become a truly special experience for our residents. These rides offer more than just a change of scenery—they bring a sense of freedom, connection to the community, and moments of joy that brighten their day. Being outdoors, feeling the breeze, and revisiting familiar surroundings often spark memories and meaningful conversations.

Our residents absolutely cherish these outings. As Noreen shared after her recent ride, “It felt so lovely to be out again, just like the old days.” Muriel also expressed her joy, saying, “I enjoyed every minute—the fresh air and company made my day.”

These simple yet powerful experiences highlight the positive impact of the trishaw rides on residents’ wellbeing, and we are truly grateful to the wonderful pilots who make it all possible.

The Pilots’ Perspectives

Pilot 1:

I have been piloting the trishaw at Amala since March 2025. I take residents for a ride on Friday afternoons just after their lunch, around 1 pm. 

This activity is one that is the most fulfilling and life-enriching experience that I have gone through in the last 12 months. Sharing the residents’ life journey by listening to their stories and sharing similar experiences is the perfect tonic to closing a hectic and stressful working week. Their deep life experiences impart wisdom that benefits me greatly as a person travelling roads they have already passed. As a popular line in the prayer of St Francis states, “It is in giving that we receive”. 

Pilot 2:

As a usually solo cyclist, piloting the trishaw for Amala residents allows me a more social ride. Time to chat with the residents and hear their views on life. Time for all of us to interact with the people passing by, patting dogs, seeing the school kids at play and seeing and listening to the local bird life. And maybe time to enjoy a coffee together afterwards.

We would like to encourage those living in the southside of Canberra to seriously consider volunteering one and a half hour of your time each week or whenever you can to give some joy to the residents of Amala and receive some invaluable “gems” in return