Pedalling Together: A Celebration of Cycling and Community in Canberra

Haig Park came alive on Saturday, March 1, as cyclists of all ages gathered for Pedalling Together, an event hosted by Pedal Power to kick off our 50th anniversary year celebrations with support from the ACT Government City Renewal Authority’s Placemaking Grants program. With a fantastic turnout of volunteers, Pedal Power members, and cycling enthusiasts, the day was filled with joy, starting with a sizzling sausage BBQ provided of Rotary and ending with a group ride.

Pedal Power’s Executive Director, Cecily Michaels, gave a heartfelt tribute to Pedal Power volunteers and advocates who have spent the last 50 years making cycling safer and more accessible across the ACT. Joined by Fitability and Cycling Without Age, the event highlighted the incredible efforts behind creating a more bike-friendly city—one bike path, piece of infrastructure, and secured bike cage at a time.

“As part of this event, we are recognising the invaluable contributions of volunteers across Canberra, including those within Pedal Power and so many other organisations”

With three cheers to start the ride, the day was a true celebration of community, advocacy, and the simple joy of two-wheeled adventures.

We are really grateful for the support demonstrated by the Greens representative, Shane Rattenbury MLA, Leader of the ACT Greens, a passionate advocate for active transport and sustainability.

Gratitude for Volunteers

Pedal Power volunteers, including office volunteer Paul Bullas and cycling advocate Harvey Bell from the Tuggeranong Electrate, who play a crucial role within the pedal power community could be seen enjoying the event. Jill Walker (Pedal Power Treasurer) and Wendy Studman enjoying the day, reflecting on the ongoing efforts to make Canberra a more cycling-friendly city.

If you’ve joined a Pedal Power ride, you’ve likely met the legend John Widdup an ex civil engineer who’s given decades of his time to ensure Canberrans can ride easily and safely around Canberra. A passionate cycling advocate, John has been a key force in Pedal Power ACT for 20+ years, serving on the board since 2004. He was also Saturday’s ride leader.

Thank you, John, for your lasting impact on Canberra’s riding community!

Another highlight on the day was meeting Erdem Can who moved to Canberra from Izmir Turkey and joined us with other members of the Turkish community in Canberrra.  Erdem told us about how he’d started a cycling organisation in Turkey which he chaired for 5 years.  We look forward to him joining Pedal Power.

Stories from the Saddle

The event also shone a light on some of the inspiring figures in Canberra’s cycling community.

Jeff Ibbotson, a passionate advocate for cycling and long-time Pedal Power member, was there. He brought Cycling Without Age to Canberra, an initiative that gives older members of the community the chance to experience the joy of cycling through special rickshaw-style bikes. This shows how cycling can be for everyone, regardless of age or mobility.

And joining him, Kim Young, 89 years young and one of our longest active members, proved that the joy of cycling never fades. Kim’s presence was a reminder that age is no barrier to staying active and engaged with the cycling community.

Support That Keeps Us Rolling

This fantastic event was made possible with support from the ACT Government City Renewal Authority’s Placemaking Grants program. Thanks to initiatives like these, Pedal Power continues to create opportunities for people to ride and connect.

Looking Ahead

With an incredible turnout and strong support from local leaders, it’s clear that cycling in Canberra is thriving. Whether you’re a daily commuter, a weekend adventurer, or just dusting off your bike, Pedal Power welcomes you to be part of this growing movement.

If you enjoyed Pedalling Together, get ready for another exciting ride this Saturday, 8 March! The Fancy Women Ride is all about style, fun, and female empowerment on two wheels. Whether you’re dressed up, adding a little sparkle to your bike, or rolling through with friends, this is your chance to celebrate and highlight the importance of women in cycling.

Missed the ride? No worries—Pedal Power has plenty of events lined up to keep you pedalling, including our easy social rides with you can find here. Stay tuned here for upcoming gatherings and help us make Canberra an even better city for cyclists!