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 set out Pedal Power’s purpose, introduced the organisation, and invited people to join a growing movement for better cycling in Canberra. It placed strong emphasis on safety and bike-related research, themes that remain central to our work today. Over the decades, our publications have broadened to reflect the vibrant community that has grown around us, now featuring stories from members, highlights from our events, and updates on our advocacy. What hasn’t changed is our commitment to making cycling safer, easier and better informed for everyone.
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.
In those early years, Pedal Power members were already engaging with national conversations about sustainability and active transport. Several volunteers attended the Radical Ecology Conference at Melbourne University over Easter, where bicycles featured strongly in discussions about energy conservation and new ways of living. It’s a reminder that even in our earliest days, cycling was firmly connected to broader environmental thinking. As we mark 50 years, it’s striking to see how these themes have endured, with our advocacy still grounded in safety, sustainability and thoughtful planning for Canberra’s future.
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 part of an organisation 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.
