A NEW volunteer-led initiative aimed at tackling social isolation among older residents and people with disability is gaining momentum, with plans underway to establish a Cycling Without Age chapter in the Redlands.
Local resident Steve Bayliss is leading the push to bring the international not-for-profit program to the city.
Cycling Without Age is run entirely by volunteers and provides free short bicycle rides for elderly and disabled passengers on specially designed trishaw bikes, using foreshores and dedicated bike paths.
The proposal has already attracted strong community interest, with Mr Bayliss saying a recent post on a local Facebook community page received an “amazing response”.
The group expects to become an approved Cycling Without Age member chapter by mid-January.
Once approved, it will be able to fundraise and apply for grants to purchase trishaw bikes and formally launch the service.
A first meet-and-greet for prospective volunteers will be held on January 9 at 10am at Raby Bay Harbour Park.
Cycling Without Age Gold Coast representatives will attend and bring both a passenger trishaw and a wheelchair trishaw for people to see and experience.
Redland City Councillor Peter Mitchell has welcomed the initiative and said he was meeting with Mr Bayliss to discuss how the project could progress.
“I’m having a coffee with Steve (Bayliss) to understand where he’s at and how my experience and contacts might smooth the way a bit,” Cr Mitchell said.
“The group in Redlands are not yet set up but Steve sounds pretty organised and keen to drive it forward.
“He’s got good online traction, so I hope that translates to volunteers.”
Cr Mitchell said he had previously researched the Cycling Without Age model and was supportive of the concept.
He noted that while funding for the trishaw bikes was achievable, sustaining the volunteer base would be key.
“The bikes aren’t cheap, but they will probably be the easy bit to get funded,” he said.
“Leaders and volunteer manpower is harder but good luck to them.”
Mr Bayliss said the initiative aimed to promote inclusiveness while offering a meaningful way for volunteers to support vulnerable members of the community.
Residents interested in learning more about Cycling Without Age Redlands or volunteering can contact Mr Bayliss directly on 0411 227 381 or email [email protected].
