The official launch of a new initiative, in which volunteers provide free trishaw bike rides to those who are unable to cycle by themselves, edges ever closer as Cycling Without Age Gippsland reaches another milestone.
From humble beginnings in Denmark to an international phenomenon operating in more than 40 countries, Cycling Without Age is bringing joy, one trishaw bike ride at a time.
Since arriving in Australia in 2016, the charity that addresses social isolation and community engagement for the elderly and those with limited mobility has grown to more than 45 chapters nationwide.
Cycling Without Age Gippsland is Australia’s newest Cycling Without Age chapter, with local MP Darren Chester leading the initiative as honorary president.
“Taking inspiration from a worldwide movement, a group of locals has formed the new Cycling Without Age chapter, and I have been elected as the inaugural chair of Cycling Without Age Gippsland and given the responsibility to help trial the concept,” Mr Chester said.
“It’s a not-for-profit charity that provides a community service by connecting those no longer able to ride for themselves with their community and the outdoors by giving them free rides on trishaw e-bikes, piloted by volunteer cyclists.
“The state-of-the-art trishaws are purpose-built for the safe transportation of passengers, and this is the first opportunity to bring this program to towns across Gippsland.”
Cycling Without Age Gippsland is on track to develop a mobile service for Sale, Bairnsdale and Lakes Entrance before the end of this year, having successfully acquired its first trishaw, with a plan to purchase another trishaw and a custom-built trailer.
Most recently, Cycling Without Age Gippsland committee members treasurer-secretary Carolynne Rankcom and Zoe Askew underwent trishaw pilot training with the team at Cycling Without Age Westernport.
“Obviously, safety is our number one priority, and we will be training all our volunteers to make sure our passengers have the best possible experience,” Ms Rankcom said.
“Just seeing the smiles on the faces of the passengers at the Westernport service has inspired us even further, and we are increasing our fundraising efforts.”
The group has already raised in excess of $35,000 with the support of local businesses and community groups and is encouraging locals to make a contribution through a community fundraising initiative.