Members of Pedal Power gathered at Haig Park in preparation for their protest cycle. Photo: Lucy Ridge.
When Canberrans are asked what is preventing them from cycling, the most common answers are either that it takes too long, or that it’s unsafe.
Local cycling advocacy group Pedal Power hopes to change that with their continued calls to create a fully segregated bicycle lane on Northbourne Avenue. The issues of safety and convenience have been at the forefront of Pedal Power’s mission for nearly 50 years.
A protest ride on Friday, 11 October, saw around one hundred cyclists travel up and down Northbourne Avenue to highlight the need for a separate bicycle lane, protected from cars by a physical barrier. It’s an issue they’ve been vocal about for a long time, and many are disappointed that this infrastructure wasn’t included when light rail was established.
New Pedal Power Executive Director Cecily Michaels told Region that they don’t see this as a divisive issue – it’s not about cars versus bikes – instead, it’s about making Canberra a more liveable city for everyone.
“We see it as a win-win for everyone,” she said.
“We’re here today because we want people to be able to ride their bicycles safely. And we want drivers not to stress about riders as well.”
“Not separated, not safe” and “Paint is no protection” were two popular slogans at the protest ride. Photo: Lucy Ridge.
The government has committed to building another Inner North bike path to connect Braddon with Dickson, in effect mirroring the existing path along Sullivan’s Creek. But while Pedal Power advocates welcome more cycling infrastructure, they say this won’t help to make transport corridors safe.
“I love the bike paths, but it’s not a direct route. You wouldn’t ask drivers to take a scenic route, so why do we expect cyclists to have to go the long way around?” Ms Michaels said.
Around 100 cyclists joined in the ride, blocking off one lane of Northbourne Avenue. Photo: Lucy Ridge.
Other participants in the protest ride spoke about the need for better safety on the road, with several recounting near misses.
Hannah, aged 12, said: “I ride my bike to school, and I have to cross Northbourne. It’s dangerous because cars go really fast and they’re really close to you.”
Other participants spoke about their desire for quicker routes to work, which they felt would encourage more people to commute by bicycle.
Jon Harriman was seriously injured when he was struck by a car while cycling last year. Photo: Lucy Ridge.
Local cyclist Jon Harriman was interviewed by Region last year after being hit by a car while commuting on his bike. He and his partner rode with an image of an injured Jon in hospital taped to their backs with the text: “I just want him to get home.”
Other cyclists – including Greens MLA Jo Clay – wore slogans like “Not separated, not safe” and “Paint is no protection”.
Ms Michaels emphasised that encouraging more people to cycle safely aligns with government goals of reducing on-road fatalities, as well as overall emission reduction targets.
“Cycling is good for the environment. It’s good for health. It’s good for the economy because people save money on petrol and parking, and it’s good for people’s mental health, too.”
The event also marked the 50th anniversary of the first Canberra protest ride held on 21 October 1974, which led to the creation of Pedal Power. Footage of that first ride can be seen at the NFSA archive.
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