Pedals, Parks & Parliament: Melbourne City U3A Explores Canberra

Jill Walker | Chair, Social Rides Management Group

Canberra turned on a week of sunshine and autumn colours when a group of 29 U3A Melbourne City cyclists came to visit in April.  Pedal Power organised a program of rides for them to show off our glorious capital city. 

On Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday a ride leader and a tail ender looked after each of two groups of riders, taking them north, south, east and west of the central basin to show off all the history, culture and hospitality that Canberra has to offer.  The U3A riders really appreciated the well designed routes, adaptability and support provided by our ride leaders.  On Wednesday the riders took themselves around Lake Burley Griffin and then they went off to visit the War Memorial.

A good time was had by all, both visitors and hosts alike!  The visitors were a very amiable bunch and keen to explore as much of Canberra and learn as much about the city as possible, so guiding them was a delight for the wonderful Pedal Power ride leaders who volunteered their time.  Of course morning tea, not to mention lunch, was also a highlight of every ride, with lots of conversation and the ride leaders sharing their extensive knowledge of the city, its history and its culture. The ride leaders really acted as ambassadors for the city and the U3A riders will go home and spread the word to all their friends and acquaintances.

As one member of the group said, “I was just blown away by the beauty and extent of the bush and lake rides and cleanliness of the air and city. Pedal Power gave us an extraordinary insight into Canberra as a 'go to' destination for cycling, which I will be recommending to others and will repeat myself.”

Another rider commented “A key reason I wanted to come to Canberra was because of the great bicycle path network. It shows off the area beautifully, gets you around the city easily, and you get some light exercise at the same time.  They are a wonderful asset to the city.  After four days of cycling, I still wanted more. Because I had come to Canberra, my partner joined me for a long weekend.  We stayed in a lovely hotel, ate delicious food, and saw the sights.  And hired bikes again. And we still didn’t get enough.  We plan to come back for another long weekend later this year, with bikes again.”

We will happily welcome the group back for another visit and ride leaders are looking forward to catching up with their new friends on a ride in Melbourne sometime soon.