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Back on your bike gets rolling across Tassie

Our newest program, Back on your bike, is about to get underway with sessions being planned across the state for the coming year.

Back on your bike has been funded by a Healthy Tasmania grant and is being designed to help people start riding again if it’s been a while since they’ve been on a bike or they’ve only recently started riding.

The free 90-minute sessions will be tailored to small groups to include:

  • basic bike maintenance and repairs  
  • skill-building activities
  • navigating your area by bike
  • a group ride to put your new skills into practice.

Rides will be held on quiet roads or off-road paths, depending on the area and the needs of the group.

The program is being delivered in conjunction with local councils who will share their knowledge about paths and routes in their area to help us shape sessions to match the local community’s needs.   

We’ve recruited experienced rider, Renate (Ren) Griese, to deliver the sessions and her extensive background in event management and local council projects also sets her up to be the perfect program coordinator.

"I'm so excited to be delivering this program across Tasmania as we know some people just need a few confidence boosters to get them riding again and I'm keen to be those helping hands," Ren said.

"We've received a Healthy Tasmania grant because of the physical and mental health benefits of riding, and part of the program will be following up with participants to see if they end up riding more often.

"We'll use the information we learn from participants to keep honing the program so it suits different communities."

Renate is talking to councils now about session times and locations, so if you know someone who needs a nudge to get riding again, keep your eye on the website or encourage them to register their interest.

bicyclenetwork.com.au/backonyourbike

The added benefit of signing up to Back on your bike is that all participants get a free 3-month Bicycle network membership to cover their insurance during the sessions and immediately afterwards.

Sessions will begin in November and will continue through to at least January 2023.