Fancy Women’s Bicycle Ride 2025: A Celebration of Style, Community, and Empowerment
This International Women’s Day, Haig Park transformed into a vibrant festival of colour, creativity, and community as the inaugural Fancy Women’s Bicycle Ride took to the streets of Canberra. Hosted by Pedal Power as part of our 50th Anniversary celebrations and supported by the ACT Government’s City Renewal Authority Placemaking Grants program, the event brought together cycling enthusiasts of all ages and backgrounds for a day of joy, visibility, and empowerment.
With stylish outfits ranging from Superwoman to a disco queen, beautifully decorated bikes, and plenty of smiles, the Fancy Women’s Ride was more than just a cycling event—it was a powerful statement about women’s role in active transport. Participants donned feather boas, floral dresses, and themed helmet covers, celebrating the joy and freedom of cycling.
A Ride with a Purpose
Beyond the glamour, the ride carried an important message: advocating for safer, more inclusive cycling infrastructure for women and girls in Canberra. Guest speaker Dr Oleksandra Molloy, a road safety researcher at the University of NSW, highlighted cycling as an accessible and sustainable mode of transport, stressing the need for gender-inclusive infrastructure and safety measures. She also spoke about the power of visibility—how seeing other women cycling fosters a safe and welcoming space for all.
We were also honoured to hear from Nuertan, a cyclist who immigrated from Türkiye, representing the Turkish contingent and acknowledging the original organisers of the Fancy Women’s Ride in Izmir. Founded in 2013 by Sema Gür, a passionate advocate for women's visibility in public spaces, the event began as a way to encourage more women to cycle, challenge social norms, and push for better bike infrastructure. Now living in Canberra, Nuertan expressed her excitement at seeing the movement thrive here, bringing the same joy, community, and empowerment to Australian women.
Jo Clay MLA (ACT Greens Deputy Leader), Laura Nuttall MLA (ACT Greens for Murrumbidgee), Ciarka Barry MLA (Liberal for Ginninderra), and Fiona Carrick MLA (Independent for Murrumbidgee) had the tough job of judging and awarding prizes for:
Fanciest Woman
Dazzled in a Superwoman-inspired cycling ensemble, proving superheroes ride bikes too!
Fanciest Person in Solidarity
Sparkled in a sequined purple throw, showing that style has no gender.
Best Dressed Bike
A floral masterpiece on wheels, adorned with fairy wings and ribbons
Best Decorated Helmet
Because when you turn your headgear into a dazzling explosion of colour, there’s simply no competition!
Pedalling in Style
With the sun shining and excitement in the air, the stylish convoy set off on a relaxed ride through Canberra, showcasing the city’s scenic cycling paths and major attractions. Leading the charge was long-time cycling advocate and Pedal Power board member Jill Walker, supported by John Widdup and a fantastic team of accredited ride leaders who ensured everyone’s safety as the group navigated the streets.
The spectacle drew cheers and waves from delighted onlookers, with many pausing to capture the moment. Music filled the air, impromptu karaoke sessions broke out mid-ride, and the infectious energy of the crowd made for an unforgettable experience.
Looking Ahead
With an incredible turnout and overwhelming support, the Fancy Women’s Bicycle Ride is set to become a staple event in Canberra’s cycling calendar. It not only highlights the importance of women in active transport but also strengthens community bonds by promoting participation, inclusivity, and fun.
Missed the ride? Don’t worry—Pedal Power hosts events all year round to keep you pedalling! From social rides to advocacy initiatives, we invite you to join us in making Canberra a safer, more accessible, and more vibrant cycling city.
Mark your calendars for the Fancy Women’s Bicycle Ride 2026—we can’t wait to see you there, dressed in your finest cycling style!
