A new community initiative is set to bring fresh air, freedom and connection to some of the Redlands Coast’s most senior residents.
Addressing Redland City Council this week, Steve Bayliss formally introduced Cycling Without Age – Redlands Coast, a volunteer-driven program offering free trishaw rides to elderly and mobility-impaired residents.
“Today, I’m not here with a list of requests,” Mr Bayliss told councillors.
“I am here to put Cycling Without Age, Redlands Coast, on your radar — and to ask for your continued encouragement as we grow.”
The concept behind Cycling Without Age is simple yet powerful: trained volunteers, known as “pilots,” cycle purpose-built electric trishaws, carrying two passengers seated comfortably at the front for gentle 20–25 minute rides along scenic shared pathways.
Founded in Denmark in 2012, the movement has expanded to 3,500 locations across 51 countries.
Australia now has 50 chapters — with Redlands Coast proudly the newest addition.
The rides move at little more than walking pace, allowing passengers to converse with pedestrians and feel part of the community once again.
“It restores what the founder calls the right to wind in your hair,” Mr Bayliss said.
While the trishaw may be the vehicle, Mr Bayliss emphasised that connection is the true heart of the charity.
For many elderly residents — particularly those living in aged care facilities — the rides may be their only opportunity to leave the “four walls” of their home.
The simple sensory experience of sea air, familiar landmarks and friendly conversations can spark long-dormant memories and stories.
The program aims to:
- Reduce social isolation
- Improve mental wellbeing
- Rekindle memories and connection to place
- Foster intergenerational relationships
- Provide purpose and community engagement for volunteers
“These rides create a rare space where different generations can slow down, talk, and learn from one another,” Mr Bayliss said.
The initiative has already delivered emotional moments.
The chapter’s first special rides celebrated two birthdays — a 93-year-old and a 97-year-old.
“The 97-year-old was my mum,” Mr Bayliss shared.
He described watching her laugh and enthusiastically sound the trishaw’s clown horn along the waterfront as unforgettable.
“She hasn’t stopped talking about it and showing the photos to her friends since,” he said.
“It restored something simple, but powerful — the feeling of being out in the world again.”
Approved as an official chapter in mid-January, Cycling Without Age – Redlands Coast has already secured its first trishaw through a generous community donation.
A second trishaw and permanent storage facility are also on the way, thanks to continued local support.
Regular community rides are expected to begin in mid-April, initially operating from Raby Bay Harbour through to Raby Bay Foreshore Park.
Future expansion may include routes at Capalaba Regional Park, Ormiston, Birkdale, Point O’Halloran and Redland Bay — with safety remaining the highest priority.
In preparation, the group is:
- Recruiting and accrediting volunteers
- Connecting with aged care homes and disability groups
- Completing safety training
- Building its website and social presence
- Applying for grants and establishing governance systems
Mr Bayliss thanked Redland City Council for its early encouragement and community connections, noting that grant applications may soon follow.
“We are volunteer-driven. We are community-funded. And we are deeply passionate about this initiative,” he said.
“With your support, this can become something the entire region is proud of — a legacy of compassion, dignity and community spirit for the Redlands Coast.”
