Typewriters to Keyboards: 50 Years of Pedal Power Stories
A treasure from 1975
As we prepared for this year's Celebration Ride, we dug deep through our office to find any remnants of the past we could display as part of the anniversary. Amidst cycling jerseys, stickers, and this beautiful jumper (contrary to what my coworkers might think, the colours are great), we found a hidden treasure almost lost to time. The very first Pedal Power newsletter from April 1975, written by Ross Andrews. Not only is this a relic of the origins of Pedal Power, but it also reflects the changes that have occurred across our rich history.
The first newsletter served to establish the purpose and introduce the world to pedal power. What we do, who we are, how to get in contact and be a part of the movement that changed Canberra cycling forever. Interestingly, there was a special emphasis on safety and bike-related research. Nowadays, we have a greater focus on sharing the stories of the community that was built since the first. This means to share our events, spotlights and advocacy-related news to divulge what we are bringing to the community.
The first ever publication of the Pedal Power emblem.
Did you know? - Emblem 50th Anniversary
We decided the Pedal Power Emblem we are ever familiar with now came from a public design competition. Despite font changes, the emblem has remained the same for 50 years. Incredibly, the brand has remained consistent for so long; it is a testament to the longevity and success of Jeff Isaacs's design.
Keeping the wheels turning
The article refers to many events which we still do today; the bicycle clinic has now become our intermediate and beginner bike maintenance courses. The Recreation Activities evolved into our current social ride systems, where we have weekly rides for people to join and meet fellow cyclists.
Back then, we would attend conferences like the Radical Ecology Conference at Melbourne University; now, we have even been able to help host our own Spokes and Sustainabilities panel, with the Greens Party. Seeing how far we’ve come, while reflecting on our roots, feels especially meaningful as we celebrate 50 years, and we hope to continue to improve upon these ideas to bring the best we can for the cycling community.
Editor’s Reflections
As the current editor for Pedal Power, I have a deep appreciation for what those who came before me have created. I have been able to become a part of a company with such a rich history and culture. Now I write the News Wheel, somewhat different to the newsletter in a digital format through emails and social media. The nostalgic feel of a paperback newsletter is refreshing and reminds me of the passion and purpose that started it all.
While our tools have changed from typewriters to keyboards, from print to pixels, the message remains the same: to inspire, connect, and empower Canberra’s cycling community.
