A NEW volunteer-led initiative aimed at reducing social isolation among older residents and people with disability is gathering pace, with plans to establish a Cycling Without Age chapter on the Redlands Coast accelerating faster than expected.
Local resident Steve Bayliss, who is leading the push, said community response had been overwhelming after a recent post on a local Facebook page attracted thousands of likes, shares and comments.
“To the literally thousands of people who liked, loved, shared and commented — thank you,” Mr Bayliss said.
“We’re blown away by the support this has generated.”
Cycling Without Age is an international not-for-profit program run entirely by volunteers, offering free short bicycle rides to elderly and disabled passengers using specially designed trishaw bikes along foreshores and shared pathways.
While the group initially expected it would take several months to raise funds and get established, Mr Bayliss said the surge of local enthusiasm could see rides begin within the next month.
“We weren’t expecting to be up and running so quickly, but the support from our community has really helped make this happen,” he said.
The group has now launched its own Facebook page to keep residents updated, including details on how the service will be rolled out and how people can get involved.
An initial information session held on January 9 attracted strong interest, with many prospective volunteers and representatives from aged care and disability services attending.
Mr Bayliss said a technical issue on the day unfortunately resulted in the loss of some registration details.
“If you registered with Rachel and don’t hear from us, please get in touch — we want everyone involved,” he said.
The Redlands Coast chapter is expected to receive formal approval as a Cycling Without Age member chapter by mid-January, allowing it to fundraise, apply for grants and purchase trishaw bikes.
Residents interested in learning more or volunteering can contact Mr Bayliss on 0411 227 381 or email [email protected]
