Yarra Bicycle Users Group: advocacy & awareness in Melb’s inner northern suburbs

YarraBUG Meetings for 2008
YarraBUG River Ride *this* Sunday 16/3
A win! Lygon Court Bicycle Parking
Cyclovia is on again

YarraBUG Meetings for 2008
Our meetings for 2008 will be held at The Queens - Q Cafe, 304 Queens Parade Clifton Hill.

Due to people mentioning they had difficulty attending BUG meetings on a school night (i.e.: weeknights!) we’ve decided to have BUG meetings 2pm on the last Sunday of the month.

Meeting dates for 2008: March 30, April 27, May 25, June 29, July 27, August 31, September 28, October 26, November 30

YarraBUG River Ride this Sunday March 16
8.30am start at Fenix Cafe, Victoria Street, Richmond. Madeleine is helping to organise a YarraBUG ride this Sunday, this is a test ride and hopefully more will be organised shortly. We will be meeting outside Fenix on Victoria Street on the same side as the Ikea shopping centre but towards Kew about 200 metres.

• Google map

We will meet there at 8.30am for an 8.45am start and set off along the Yarra river towards Burnley crossing over to Studley Park along past the Collingwood Childrens Farm, Dights Falls, Yarra Bend golf course.

For those want to stop for coffee after this short half hour ride can do so at Studley Park Boatshed and for those who want a little longer, there is another 30 minutes that we can add in by crossing over at Fairfield Boatshed and riding along the Yarra Boulevard - and then we will go for coffee at the Studley Park Boatshed and meet any others that wanted the shorter ride.

Therefore it will be half an hour to the Studley Park Boat Shed - another half an hour round trip for those who want the extra ride, half an hour for coffee and then it is half an hour back to Fenix - so all up approximately 2 hours - and back at Fenix by 11am.

It is flat most of the way but you need to be able to carry your bike down a set of stairs - so not a beginner and probably not a fully lycra clad cleats racing bike either - this will be a leisurley pace more for the ‘coffee riding set’. Please contact Madeleine for more information: 0425 796 345.

Lygon Court Bicycle Parking Campaign
Melbourne Council voted last week to support the addition of bicycle parking at Lygon Court! Many thanks to everyone who supported this longrunning campaign, read the YarraBUG letter of support and response from Cr Catherine Ng on our Campaigns page and more background at Melbourne Cyclist

Cyclovia is on again
From Moreland Council: Sunday 13 April 2008 8am to 2 pm On Sydney Road from Bell Street, Coburg to Brunswick Road, Brunswick.

Life to the street! Come and stroll, pedal, shop or relax over coffee and cake on Sydney Road free from motorised traffic. Enjoy this community space in a new way. Consider volunteering as a marshal to help this event work smoothly. Contact nelliotATmoreland.vic.gov.au for more information.

2006 Cyclovia Photos

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Yarra Council: Bicycle Advisory Committee Meeting - 20 February
Rob Sawyer: On Ya Bike Going Away Party - Wednesday 13 February
Sustainable Living Festival: Shared BUG marquee with Cycling Promotion Fund - 15 to17 February
Melbourne Summer Cycle - Sunday 24 February
Come to Life Ballarat Cycling Classic - Sunday 24 February
Geelong Advertiser Family Fun Ride - Sunday 24 February
Geelong World Cup Challenge - Sunday 24 February
VeloRock - 29 March
Melbourne Festival of Cycling - 20 April

Feeling less than match fit after an extended festive break? Well there’s more than enough bicycle fun around Melbourne to get you back into shape. Or there’s a event or two you can just watch, if that’s required too. Although February 24 looks as if you’ll have to flip a coin to decide what event to participate in.

For those of you who are interested in starting the radio announcer training at 3CR, a email is on it’s way shortly with more details.

YarraBUG Meetings for 2008: the finer details are still being worked out, but this year we may break the mold and have meetings NOT on a school night (ie: on a weekend, not weeknight).

Believe or not we’ve been contacted by enthusiastic locals who would like to start organising rides, so if you also feel similarly enthused to help out, *please* contact us & lets get some fun rides planned for 2008. Email: enquiriesATyarrabug.org or call Chris 0407 825 467 or Steve: 0439 600 350

For more Melbourne-based cycling events, have a look at the Melbourne Cyclist calendar - middle column & scroll down a bit. Know of another ride or event? Then please let us know so we can help to promote it.

Rides & Events

Yarra Council: Bicycle Advisory Committee Meeting - 20 February
6.30pm Richmond Town Hall Meeting Room 1. The City of Yarra’s Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC) meets six times per year. The BAC’s role is to provide advice to the Councillors and Council staff about the development of bicycle infrastructure in the City of Yarra. The BAC is
chaired by a Councillor and resourced by the Council’s Transport Unit. All welcome to attend

Rob Sawyer: On Ya Bike Going Away Party - Wednesday 13 February
Come and give the boys some encouragement at the first show for the tour, on Wednesday 13th February, at the Brunswick East Club, Brunswick VIC. Doors around 8pm, $10 @ the door. Rob will be playing solo + support from Luke Foran (QLD). Come check out the bikes Rob and Harv will be riding, and farewell them hopefully for a successful 4 months of cycling around the country.

Sustainable Living Festival: Shared BUG marquee with Cycling Promotion Fund - 15 to 17 February
It’s on again - time to plan again for another shared BUG and cycling group marquee at the Sustainable Living Festival in February 2008. This will be a great event for promoting BUG’s and cycling groups - with an estimated 100,000 visitors over the weekend. Yarra BUG will be having a presence at the Sustainable Living Festival this year, please contact us if you would like to volunteer some time at the shared marquee!

Other great events organised for this years festival are:

Mum’s and Dad’s Emission Free Taxi
Come along to hear how your family can significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions, save time, money, get fit and have a great time. Just because you have kids doesn’t mean you have to drive a car.

BikeOn: Bike ride to Federation Square on Sunday of the Festival
Ride in with one of Melbourne’s bicycle user groups. Bring the family and join your friends and neighbours and park your bike at the free valet service.

Melbourne Summer Cycle - Sunday 24 February
Commencing at Alexandra Gardens and finish at Piazza Italia at Argyle Square in Lygon Street, Carlton with rest stops along the way to keep you going. Along the way you’ll travel over the Westgate bridge to Williamstown, and back through Flemington to the finish where there’ll be live entertainment and the best that bustling Lygon St has to offer.

Start: Alexandra Gardens (Mel Ref: Page 2F Ref H7) Start Time: 7.30am – 8.30am. Rider start times will be printed on the front of the envelope that your Ride Guide arrives in. Finish Site: Piazza Italia at Argyle Square, in festive Lygon St, Carlton (Mel Ref: Page 2B Ref F9).

Come to Life Ballarat Cycling Classic - Sunday 24 February
Come to Life Ballarat Cycling Classic is a fundraiser for the Ballarat Cancer Research Centre. Events include a 60-100km road ride that incorporates the National Road Racing Championship and 100km (17 laps) relay ride around Lake Wendouree.

Geelong Advertiser Family Fun Ride - Sunday 24 February
We are pleased to announce the addition of the Geelong Advertiser Family Fun Ride. This free 12km event is the perfect option for the entire family to experience the thrill of riding the UCI World Cup course just prior to the elite female cyclists. Time 9.15 am. Start & Finish Geelong Waterfront. Distance 12 km. Format The event is a family run ride. It is not a race. Registration TBA. Entries: please click here.

Geelong World Cup Challenge - Sunday 24 February
Time 7.00 am. Start & Finish Geelong Waterfront. Distance 80 km. Format The event is a recreational challenge ride for individuals or teams. It is not a race. Traffic Safety All participants are required to comply with Victorian road rules. Roads will be open to traffic as normal, road closures will not be in place. Victorian Police and event marshals will assist with traffic management. Timing State of the art timing equipment will be used to record the individual time of each participant.

Each participant will be issued with a transponder - weighing only 20 grams - to place around their ankle. Your overall time will be recorded as well as split times for the climb up Bellbrae Hill.
Course Map & Elevation (pdf) :: Course Guide (pdf)

Registration: TBA. On Course Support On course support will be available in the form of a mobile mechanic, qualified 1st Aid Officer, lead motorcycle, sag wagon and event marshals. Drink Stations Drink stations will be located at Freshwater Creek and Breamlea. Entries: please click here.

VeloRock - 29 March
2pm-7pm at Brunswick Velodrome. The Lucksmiths, Mid State Orange, The Steinbecks and the Crayon Fields will be playing; and the biggest drawcard is that this is a BIKES ONLY EVENT!!

Melbourne Festival of Cycling - 20 April
An invitation and opportunity for all cyclists to share in the Festival of Cycling and ride on the Albert Park circuit. Events listed included a GP Time Trail Challenge, Vic Open Road Team TT Championship open to all CSV / CA Cycling Clubs, ‘Go for your life’ One hour challenge and Festival Fun Ride & Family Cycle.

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Announcing … Bin the Bike Ban campaign on the V/Line and Connex changes to taking bicycles on peak hour services. This site collates information and public discussion about the recent bicycle ban.

Also please feel free to subscribe to the public transport discussion group.

Keep in mind, as Alan Parker mentions here, this ‘ban’ is yet another example of a systematic long-term problem that certain groups have been passing the buck on for literally decades.

Hence, why anyone who opposes this ban needs to carefully consider short-term, medium-term and long term strategies to counter it.

A vital point: Please be patient, as it will be difficult to draw together everyone’s ideas and suggestions, so the Bin the Bike Ban site and public transport email group will probably be like a clearing house until we collectively decide what directions, strategies or time lines people want to take.

Any good community-based campaign is a ensemble effort. If you have particular interest, idea or knowledge please consider what your contribution could be. Please pass this message onto anyone you know who could be affected by these bans.

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Yarra BUG radio show on 3CR
Summer rides calendar
North Side Ladies Bicycle Calendar - Launch Party
Melbourne Bicycle Film Festival - 5th - 9th December
Solutions to Climate Change Festival - Saturday December 8th
CSV Women’s Cycling Development Series - Coffee Crits
The 77th Melbourne Cup on Wheels

Yarra BUG radio show on 3CR
The radio show is all go for 2008! YarraBUG has been accepted as an affiliate member of 3CR and our community grant application to cover costs for training and administration has been given the thumbs up by the City of Yarra.

We have funds to train six presenters. Even if you don’t want to be a presenter your ideas for the shows content are most welcome.

• The training is approx 25 hours each and can be tailored to suit time requirements (i.e: weekends). During Jan-Feb is quiet at 3CR and therefore a good time for people to complete training.
• The show will be weekly, in a half hour slot and hopefully commence in March 2008 or when training is completed. At the moment we’re considering a early evening weekend spot, as weeknights are 3CR language shows.
• It’s up to Yarra BUG to decide the guidelines for presenters and show format, at the very least aspiring announcers should be a financial member of the BUG, a 3CR subscriber have a interest in cycling issues.
• We can have the option of podcasting the show after six months on air.

That’s the very basic details so far, please contact us if you require further information about the show’s format and are interested in participating. And if that’s not exciting enough, 3RRR-FM have a new bicycle show on 7-8pm, Tuesdays on the summer grid filling in for The Architects. Not forgetting, Sooty Park commenced it’s third season tonight (Thursdays) on Channel 31. So here’s your chance to become a part of Melbourne thriving bicycle media.

Links: 3CR :: Sooty Park :: 3RRR-FM

Summer rides calendar
If you’re interested in either organising a ride or learning more about being a ride leader, please contact us. This request has been asked before and as all of us involved with running the BUG are rather busy, very busy or extremely busy doing other stuff it would be appreciated if people could volunteer to help either beginner rides or training rides. Have a existing ride you’d like to invite people along to? Then let us know and get the word out. Email: enquiriesATyarrabug.org

North Side Ladies Bicycle Calendar - Launch Party - This Thursday 6th December, 7pm - 11pm
Kick Gallery - 239 High St Northcote. Proceeds to The Victorian Cancer Council - Breast Cancer Appeal.

From Jay: After Years of speculation, trials and tribulation, I’m proud to announce that the 2008 Northside Ladies Bicycle Calendar is finally a reality! Featuring 12 wonderful pieces of photography that serve to capture and combine all that is a lady, her bicycle and our little Metropolis just north of the Yarra. Calendar is being launched is part of the Fresh Prints III, T-shirt and Printed paraphernalia exhibition at the wonderful Kick Gallery, Northcote.

Very Limited Release, Printed on Heavy Weight Gloss A3 - $20 Each. Copies available at launch or to have copy delivered by post please email: jcsyrupATgmail.com

Melbourne Bicycle Film Festival - 5th - 9th December
From Pip: Tickets for the first ever Melbourne edition of the Bicycle Film Festival are now on sale! The festival runs from December 5th - 9th and features films, art shows, street parties and more! Finally the cyclists of Melbourne will have a chance to see the best cycling-related short and feature length films the world has to offer in the glorious surroundings of the Capitol Theatre.

We have a number of festival passes to give away and would like to offer the members of your group the opportunity to win one. Festival passes are valued at $60 and grant the bearer free entry to any of the screening sessions at the RMIT Capitol Theatre plus free entry to our opening night party - Bikes Rock! To win, all they have to do is email infoATambiguoushorse.com with the name of one of films in the Melbourne screening program. Program details here.

Solutions to Climate Change Festival - Saturday December 8th
YarraBUG will be at the Solutions to Climate Change Festival on this Saturday 8th December, Darling Gardens, Clifton Hill from 1 to 5pm. We’ll be sharing a stall with our friends from Human Powered Cycles and Bike Fix of Carlton Gardens fame. Come along and enjoy a great day out in the park and meet the locals.

From FoE: Friends of the Earth Melbourne, in collaboration with the City of Yarra, presents the annual Solutions to Climate Change community festival. Learn and share practical knowledge about low impact lifestyles, renewable energy, and simple D.I.Y solutions to climate change.

The afternoon will involve talks by climate change specialists, amazing workshops (for big and small), stalls, FoE’s foodie delights, and some fine rhythms! Inspiration to Change is the festival theme, and the event is therefore focused on inspiring people to implement solutions to climate change and improve the health of the planet. Program :: Poster

CSV Women’s Cycling Development Series - Coffee Crits
Been thinking of racing criteriums but just never quite got there? You want to try, but think you need to improve your racing skills & knowledge first? CSV’s Women’s Committee, in conjunction with metro cycling clubs, bring to you a Women’s Criterium Series with a twist!

Aimed at female cyclists with little or no experience in criterium racing, the series will provide all participants a chance to ride great criterium circuits in a relaxed and comfortable environment, and learn great skills and techniques along the way!

A mentor will ride along side participants during the event, offering great coaching tips and techniques throughout. There will be no places, prizes or rankings awarded, so it will be safe and enjoyable for all involved. And after the event, a chat and event debrief will be conducted over a nice cup of coffee!

Contact CSV for more information on the series & to register for the series first event. Plus keep an eye out on the CSV website for information for the announcement of more series dates in the new year. Events will be hosted by St Kilda CC, Carnegie-Caulfield CC & Footscray CC & the series’ first event is … 7.30am, Sunday 16 December, White Street, Port Melbourne. (Melways Ref 2E F11).

Free Entry PLUS a free coffee!!! Intro session 7.30am. Event (20mins + 3 laps) 8am. Open to current female CA licence holders: Open, Club, RIDE IT & 3 RIDE or Day permit. For more information on the series please contact Amy McCann on 03 8480 3000 or email: amy.mccannATcycling.org.au. More at Cycle Sport Victoria.

The 77th Melbourne Cup on Wheels - 19th December
The Melbourne Cup on Wheels is always a fantastic nights entertainment at Vodafone and this year it is part of the Revolution Series. From Vodafone Arena: Be part of the action with World and Olympic Champions in an action-packed night of finals racing.

The Revolution concept has transformed track cycling in the UK and is now set to do the same right here in Melbourne. It is all about entertainment, atmosphere and top-level racing. Melbourne Cup on Wheels :: Cycling Revolution.

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YarraBUG Public Forum Feedback
3CR - Proposed Bicycle Show
Next YarraBUG Meeting
Yarra Ride to Work Day
Yarra Bicycle Advisory Committee
Yarra Council Meeting - Motion supporting cycling in Yarra
Creating a Sustainable Future for Yarra - Yarra Environment Strategy – Community Consultation
Want to Cycle to Work?
Get ready for Ride to Work Day & ATB
Family Rides for Mums, Partners and Kids
Lysterfield MTB Working Bee
Adult Beginner’s Bike Course
Bike Love-In and Picnic
Ride Like The Wind 07
Solutions to Climate Change Community Festival

YarraBUG News

YarraBUG Public Forum Feedback
See below to item no. 6 about the Motion supported by Council stemming from the Yarra BUG Public Forum on September 16. Forum notes will be distributed shortly to participants and a summary will be posted to the list soon. Sorry about the delay, I’ve been enduring a nasty cold for a couple of weeks, as have many people over the last month.

3CR - Proposed Bicycle Show
Update: YarraBUG was contacted by 3CR to help develop a proposed Bicycle Show for 2008. So far we’ve put in a joint funding application for a community grant with 3CR to cover costs and placed a submission to join the Community Radio Federation. Last week we attended a 3CR Board Meeting to present YarraBUG as a potential affiliate group.

We should know about the Boards decision in about a month and if the community grant application is successful by December. Stay tuned!

Next YarraBUG Meeting
Our next meeting is Tuesday 16 October, 7.30pm at Suede Bar, 284 Smith Street, Collingwood. The Public Forum has given us plenty to discuss, this months topics will including strategising Yarra BUG’s priorities for the next 12 months, issues with road user attitudes towards cyclists, growing our membership and developing a rides calendar for the summer months.

Another issue that has been mentioned is that Tuesday night meetings aren’t easily accessible for many people, so alternative venue or times are being considered. If you have any suggestions please contact us: enquiriesATyarrabug.org

Yarra Council News

Yarra Ride to Work Day - 17 October 2007
Ride to Work Day is coming up on Wednesday 17 October and Yarra Council is organising a community breakfast at Victoria Gardens, corner of Burnley & Victoria St, Richmond. YarraBUG will be having a stall, so please contact us if you can help on the day. For more contact Kate Simnet, Yarra Sustainable Transport Officer: SimnettKATyarracity.vic.gov.au. More about Yarra Ride to Work Day

Yarra City Council has organised a free breakfast on Victoria Street near the Victoria Gardens Shopping Centre between 7.00am to 9.00am, for all cyclists participating in National Ride to Work Day on Wednesday 17 October. The event aims to encourage new riders to join the cycling community.

It is also to reward people who leave their cars at home and use sustainable transport to travel to and from work regularly already. Activities on the day include: Free coffee and breakfast, Free bike maintenance, Police with engraving tools, Giveaways from Victoria Gardens stores, Yarra Leisure prizes, Hairdressers fixing ‘helmet hair’.

Yarra Council Bicycle Advisory Committee
Next meeting: Wednesday 24 October 2007 at Richmond Town Hall, The Lounge. Please note change of venue. There’s big news about Gipps Street Step developments, after several years of lobbying things are starting to happen! Other topics will include the planning towards the next Yarra Council budget allocation for bicycle infrastructure and regular Bicycle Network Planning items. More at: YarraBAC Meetings

Yarra Council Meeting - 18th September
Great news from Septembers Yarra Council Meeting, the Motion detailed below followed on from the YarraBUG Public Forum and was supported by Council. It does have some additions and these should be available in the Council Minutes. As you can read there are several proposals to further enhance cycling and sustainable transport in Yarra, including utilising Yarra council facilities for end of trip use for cyclists, a proposed Yarra Cyclovia and a Car Free Day.

A report is being prepared to be presented to the next Council meeting on Tuesday 16 October. So please ensure you can either attend this meeting and give support during Public Question Time or make a written submission to Council supporting these initiatives.

Obviously there is a clash with our planned BUG meeting, so please contact us if you would like to attend or we can make alternative arrangements for our meeting. email: enquiriesATyarrabug.org. More at: City of Yarra Meetings

Details of Motion 1 – better supporting bicycle riding in the City of Yarra
That a report be prepared for the November cycle of council looking at options for:

1) Increasing bicycle parking in the City of Yarra, including through:
a) Converting some car parking spaces to bicycle parking spaces in supermarket shopping areas (for example in the Swan St Richmond Coles and Piedimonte’s in North Fitzroy) and in strip shopping areas;
b) Introducing a minimum number of bicycle parking hoops per 10 meters in activity centres;

2) Implementing a car free day in 2008;

3) Implementing a ‘Cyclovia’ activity in 2008, possibly in partnership with other IMAP councils;

4) Making facilities at the Richmond Leisure Centre (and other City of Yarra facilities) available for bike riders who would like to use the showers and bike-lock up facilities available (eg for a small fee);

5) Supporting activities that encourage hesitant riders to ride more often (such as the Absolute Beginner Chicks group, a women-only group which supports women to ride more, through riding activities and social events).

Moved: Cr Maltzahn. Seconded: Cr Fristacky

Background: On Sunday 16 September, the Yarra Bicycle Users Group (Yarra BUG) held a public forum at the Fitzroy Town Hall attended by Cr Fristacky and I.

Participants raised issues such as:

The need for more bicycle parking;
The need to support activities which get people riding regularly, including for people who haven’t ridden on the streets before (or recently);
The need to change car driver (and politician) attitudes that see the roads as the territory of cars only (and not bikes);
The need for better bike riding infrastructure, including better connectivity, more end-of-ride facilities, improvement to the
Pigdon/Canning St intersection.

Creating a Sustainable Future for Yarra - Yarra Environment Strategy – Community Consultation
The City of Yarra is currently developing a new environment strategy. Council hosted a series community workshops throughout June and July to gain ideas for improving our environment and planning our future. You can also provide input into the project by viewing and responding to the fact sheets at Creating a Sustainable Future for Yarra - tell us what you think.

The next stage of the project is to consolidate the information obtained through community consultation. This will be undertaken in September and October. For more information on the project, please contact Silvana Predebon on 9205 5753 or predebosATyarracity.vic.gov.au. More at: Yarra Environment Strategy.

Bicycle News

Want to Cycle to Work?
Message from Harry, a local cyclist who can get you started riding to work.
He can:

Choose safe, easy routes to your workplace
Select an appropriate bike and/or accessories
Show you how to arrive clean and dry
Ride with you to work so you can gain confidence
Answer your “what ifs”

He has 20 years bicycle commuting experience. Fees: First 1/2 hour consultation free, then $30/h. Call Harry 0417 427 797 - I’m here to help!

Get ready for Ride to Work Day and ATB
Also don’t forget if you’re getting ready for Ride to Work Day or the ATB, please make sure your bike is ready too. YarraBUG sponsors, Abbotsford Cycles at Richmond Station provide excellent servicing & repair for road bikes and the Bike Fix crew at Carlton Gardens on Sundays can help you with basic repairs and servicing.

Also Human Powered Cycles in Brunswick can assist in getting your bike ready. The workshop located at rear of 38 Harrison St, Brunswick East. Workshop Opening Hours: Tuesday-Friday 9,00am-6.00pm, Saturday 9.00am-3.00pm. Ph: 9029 6504. More at: Abbotsford Cycles :: Bike Fix :: Human Powered

Family Rides for Mums, Partners and Kids
Riding with your kids has never been more fun. Bring your kids, in tow, on bike seats or on their own bikes, for a fun and social experience. No one is too slow, and we’re happy to stop for a play, rest, breastfeed, nappy change, or just wait for a tantrum to be over. Local mum and cycling guru Kathy Brunning brings together local families for monthly Wednesday trips to CERES Environment Park in East Brunswick, where there’s something for everyone: cafe, playground, market, musicians, animals, nursery.

All rides are Darebin BUG rides and meet at Jika Jika Community Centre, corner Plant and Union Streets, Northcote (near Westgarth train station). Kathy also leads monthly Sunday trips using the train ($2.50 Sundaysaver) to kid friendly destinations across Melbourne – the Botanical Gardens, the beach and Bundoora Park. For more information and dates for these great family spring activities contact Kathy: 0410 667 634, kbrunningATbigpond.com

Lysterfield MTB Trail Working Bee - Saturday 6th & Sunday 7th
YarraBUG member Steve, with his Lysterfield MTB group helmet on, is organising a MTB Trail Working Bee this weekend in conjunction with Parks Victoria rangers.

If you’re interested in assisting with trail maintenance at Lysterfield Park and meeting other MTB riders ( + free lunch and limited numbers for a lift from the inner burbs), please contact him by Friday 5/10: frm125_steveATyahoo.com.au.

Meet at Hallam North Rd. Bring the usual gear, boots, gloves, hat, sunscreen, water etc. The PV-MTBA tool trailer should be available but you can bring your favourite shovel if you have one. BBQ lunch provided. Please RSVP for work planning & catering, i.e. if vegetarian etc. More at: Lysterfield MTB Group.

Adult Beginner’s Bike Course
An Adult Beginner’s Bike Course is being run by volunteers from Darebin Bicycle User Group for people who can ride a bit but want to build riding skills and confidence. Saturdays 27 October to 1 December (5 sessions) from 1 to 3.30 pm. Cost $50. Meet friendly people to ride with, go on practice rides, get tips on buying a bike and accessories, learn to fix a puncture and more. Contact Louise 9484 3860 More at: DarebinBUG.

Bike Love-In and Picnic - October 14
Cycle Against the Nuclear Cycle (CANC3) is riding 4500km from Rockhampton Queensland to Adelaide, SA this year. They’re arriving in Melbourne on Sunday 14th to have some retro fun before they head toward Adelaide. You are invited to a day of bike ridin’ and nuclear free fun. Join them as they ride into Melbourne roward a retro picnic and bike love-in (fix ya bike). Ride from Frankston to Carlton. Frankston 10am: meet at Beauty Park, Frankston 10am. Ride along the coast toward Melbourne. St Kilda 2pm: meet at the pier near the foreshore.

The 62 km ride will be a great practise session for the Melbourne Big Ride. Dress you and your bike 1970s nuclear free. Push Bikes not Uranium. Retro theme: dress 1970s, dated, like nuclear technology 3pm: Carlton Gardens, Corner Canning and Carlton Streets. We’re crashing the “Bike Fix” party to have some bike lovin’ nuclear. BYO Bike and picnic. More: Beck: 0405 105 101, James: 0404 260 401 email: contactATcanc.org.au More at: www.canc.org.au

Ride Like The Wind 07
Craig Durkee and Ross Donnan are planning a three day ride from Melbourne to Sydney to raise money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. With the riders planning to cycle 950km over 72 hours, it does sound a bit like an Australian-style Paris-Brest-Paris, but for a great cause! Their aim is to raise money for the Starlight Children’s Foundation. Any donations would be appreciated. All money will go towards the foundation. More at: www.ridelikethewind07.com

Solutions to Climate Change Community Festival - 8 December
Friends of the Earth Melbourne, in collaboration with the City of Yarra, will present the annual Solutions to Climate Change community festival in early December. Learn and share practical knowledge about low impact lifestyles, renewable energy, and simple D.I.Y solutions to climate change. The afternoon will involve talks by climate change specialists, amazing workshops (for big and small), stalls, FoE’s foodie delights, and some fine rhythms!

Inspiration to Change is the festival theme, and the event is therefore focused on inspiring people to implement solutions to climate change and improve the health of the planet. The festival is taking place in Darling Gardens, Clifton Hill, on the 8th of December from 1-5pm.

Stay tuned to the Friends of the Earth Melbourne website for more information closer to the date or contact Jodie to get involved (stalls, workshops, etc): jodie.fraserATfoe.org.au More at: www.melbourne.foe.org.au.

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Do you live in the City of Yarra?

Cycle through the City of Yarra?

Love riding your bicycle?

Want to help improve local cycling conditions?

Like to go on social rides?

You are warmly invited to attend!

Where: 11am-1pm, Sunday, 16th September 2007 - Reading Room, Fitzroy Town Hall, 201 Napier Street, Fitzroy.

What: Facilitated discussion & networking about cycling in Yarra, including your ideas, community networking, bicycle advocacy, organising social rides and BUG administration.

All welcome to attend, admission free. Please RSPV by Friday 14th September: Ph: 0407 825 467 or email: enquiriesATyarrabug.org.

You can help to promote our Yarra BUG forum by;

• Forwarding this information to anyone you know who would be interested,
• Downloading and printing the poster (see link below) and distributing it at your local library, school, workplace, cafe or community house,
• Additional copies can be made if you want to distribute them in your local area, so please contact us if you require posters.
• Yarra BUG Forum Poster (PDF file, 89kb)

If you can help out on the day or have further ideas, then please feel free to contact us. Look forward to hearing from you soon!

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Ladies, Gentlemen and numerous bicycles of Yarra,

Glad tidings from Consumer Affairs Victoria. As of July 23, 2007, Yarra Bicycle Users Group is now incorporated under the Associations Incorporation Act 1981.

• Our Model Rules (pdf file) can be downloaded from here.
• YarraBUG membership details.

Many thanks to everyone who helped in this lengthy process, including support and advice from Louise, Karen, Alison, Kemran, Brendan, Steve and the helpful staff at CAV. Now onto planning for our upcoming Public Forum, AGM and more bicycle fun in the Yarra area.

Also, here is a important notice from our website sponsors, Abbotsford Cycles:

“Owing to mass migration of staff to France, Abbotsford Cycles will be closing for a Winter Holiday! Last day of business will be Friday the 10th of August (10/8) at 4pm.

The shop will be reopening on Monday the 10th of September (10/9), at 9am. If you have a bike in the shop, or drop it in beforehand, please remember to pick it up before the shop closes!”

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Yarra BUG News

Yarra BUG Meeting 19th June 2007
Our next meeting is on 7.30pm, Tuesday 19th June at Suede Bar, 284 Smith Street, Collingwood. Yarra BUG has formally adopted a set of Model Rules for incorporation and elected the Yarra BUG Committee and Office Bearers. At this meeting there will be follow-up reports on YarraBUG’s incorporation, plans for our forthcoming community forum and local advocacy news. All most welcome for a beverage, meal & friendly chat.

Yarra BUG Community Forum
As mentioned above, we’re planning to hold a Community Forum after the process of incorporation has been finalised. If you have any ideas about this proposed forum or know of a facilitator could assist, please let us know. Also we’ve got a venue planned, plus speakers and topics, such as organising rides (at last!), local advocacy, promotion, community networking and BUG administration up for discussion. For convenience, the forum will be held on a Saturday or Sunday, although please let us know if people have alternative ideas about times and dates. More details to come!

Yarra BUG Membership
Our bank details have been finalised with Bendigo Bank, so you can now make a direct payment for YarraBUG membership. Refer to updated membership form below, and if you cannot access pdf files please email us and we’ll supply the details for you. email: enquiries @yarrabug.org. Click here for membership form. (PDF file, 116 KB)

Please send this completed form (no cash please) to: Yarra Bicycle User Group: PO Box 253, Clifton Hill 3068 Victoria. Direct payment to Bendigo Bank: BSB: 633 000 Account No: 130 032 956. Please ensure you include “Yarra Bicycle User Group” on cheques, money orders or online payments, so your payment will be reconciled with details on this membership form.

Advocacy News

In addition to advocacy news listed below, there will be further updates soon on the Merri Creek Review process currently being undertaken by Darebin, Moreland and Yarra Councils, to which Yarra BUG made a joint submission (PDF file, 8KB) last year with Darebin and Moreland BUG’s.

Yarra BUG Gipps Street Steps Campaign Day March 2005

Gipps Street Steps/Collins Bridge
Progess of work on the steps replacement and path realignment has been slower than expected due to consultations with Parks Victoria, Melbourne Water and local councils. However in the next six weeks there should be more action happening after a landscape and ecological feasibility study has been completed and further consultations with Melbourne Water regarding all bridge options. So look forward to more developments shortly.

815 Nicholson Street/Video Ezy Site
At the Moreland Council General Meeting on April 11, on behalf of Yarra BUG, Chris asked about developments at 815 Nicholson Street during Public Question Time. In short, the site is currently being redeveloped, with Moreland Council resolving to develop a tender specification based on the following uses,

“1. Restaurant; 2. Bike Shop; 3. Public Toilets; 4. Tourism Information Centre; 5. or other uses compatible with the Open Space Masterplan and Department of Sustainability and Environment advice; 6. Improve the bike path alignment”.

You can read in detail, the decision that was taken by Moreland Council at that meeting in the link below. Consultation also occurred with Moreland BUG, please refer to their comments tabled in Attachment 5 included in this link:

Moreland Council: DCI18 EOI Expression Interest - 815 Nicholson Street, Brunswick East (PDF file, 1.80 MB)

This document also makes note that community interest groups will be consulted when the project proceeds, which include Moreland BUG, Yarra BUG, Bicycle Victoria, Brunswick Tri Group, Brunswick Cycle Club, Coburg Cycle Club and Playgrouping Victoria. So we’ll keep you posted on further developments.

Yarra Council News

Yarra Council Bicycle Advisory Committee Meetings
Next meeting date is Wednesday 27 June. The Bicycle Advisory Committee Meeting is chaired by Cr Kathleen Maltzahn and resourced by the Council’s Transport Unit. Most meetings are held at 6.30pm, Meeting Room 1, Richmond Town Hall, although these can be subject to change. Please feel free to attend and submit questions for the agenda. If you want to know in detail what Yarra Council are doing for local cycling infrastructure, read the Network Progress Report’s in each BAC Agenda. Please contact Richard Smithers (Transport Coordinator, City of Yarra) for further details: ph: 9205-5739, mob 0437 355 821, email: smitherr@yarracity.vic.gov.au

Yarra Planning Scheme Amendment C71- Bicycle Facilities
In 2004, several Yarra BUG members wrote submissions in support of Yarra Councils C71 Amendment. Only now are Yarra Council are tabling these submissions, due to the introduction of provisions to bicycle facilities into the State Government Planning Provisions. At Yarra Councils Planning, Environment and Infrastructure Committee meeting on Tuesday (5/6) a report including these submissions was finally presented. A copy of the officer’s report is available in libraries of the City of Yarra on Thursday 31st May 2007. The agenda is also available online here. (PDF file, 168 KB)

The minutes of this meeting with Yarra Councils recommendations will be available shortly on the councils website.

Creating a Sustainable Future for Yarra - Yarra Environment Strategy – Community Consultation
The City of Yarra is about to commence the development of a new Environment Strategy and wants to hear your thoughts, priorities and ideas. Council will be running a series of community workshops throughout June and July to gain your input. Residents and traders are encouraged to attend one or all of the workshops listed below to have your say.

All workshops will be held from 7pm - 9pm, with light refreshments served from 6.30pm. Workshops held in the Town Halls will focus on a specific lifestyle aspect and involve guest speakers, and all other workshops will cover general environment themes on a locality basis. Consultation Program details here.

Events and Rides

BikeFix at the Sustainable Living Festival

Bike Fix at Carlton Gardens
Free bike repair workshops starting at approximately 9am, every Sunday at North Gate, Carlton Gardens - Corner Canning and Carlton Streets. Weather permitting of course! Feel free to turn up and introduce yourself (and your bicycle!) to Louisa and Val.
Click here for Google Map.

Bike Fun Melbourne
Most Bike Fun rides go at a social pace, run rain or shine, and are free. BikeFun depends on people like you to create events and contribute to Melbourne’s creative bike community. If you organise a ride, BikeFun will promote it. Got a great idea for a polite pedal or exciting ride, then contact Alex: bikefunnist@riseup.net to get your ride included in the Bike Fun monthly calendar.

Fri 15 June - Bicycle Pub Crawl
Meet at 6:30PMish, departing for second pub at 7:45pm. Start: Emerald Hill Brewery, 20 Ross Street South Melbourne. A relaxed pub-crawl, starting from Emerald Hill Brewery and ending up somewhere in the Inner North East. Will go via food after the first stop. Be responsible. Organiser: CMFM

Sat 23 June - Winter Solstice Ride [Bike Fun Melbourne]
6:30PM Railway Hotel - 280 Ferrars St, *South* Melbourne …departing 7:30 Celebrate the return of the sun in urban bikey style. First dinner at the pub for those who want it. Then we’ll ride to a suitable location for a solstice ceremony and fire. Dress warm and bring food, etc. to share. Organisers: pfa, bikefunnist, etc.

Cycle Sport Victoria News - Women’s Forum and Recreational and competitive insurance
Women’s Forum: CSV is hosting a forum on women’s racing: Wednesday 27 June 2007 @ DISC (Darebin International Sports Centre) John Cain Memorial Park, 281 Darebin Rd, Thornbury. 6pm for a 6.30 start, tea/coffee etc and nibbles available from 6pm. All welcome, to discuss women’s racing, where it is at, what do competitive female cyclists need/want in terms of racing, skill development etc and where to from here and how do we do it? Even though this is a women’s racing forum, all interested parties are welcome. RSVP/queries to Amy McCann: amy.mccann@cycling.org.au

Recreational and competitive insurance with CycleSport Victoria
Please see below for information about how to get started in cycling in Victoria, both recreational and competitive with CycleSport Victoria. CycleSport Victoria licences include recreational “Ride It” licences, which include insurance, giving individuals 24/7 coverage for only $45 a year! And only $90 for families! Visit CycleSport Victoria for more details. Getting Started Brochure :: Frequently Asked Questions about the Insurance Coverage.

Family Ride for Mums, Partners, and Kids at Jika Jika Community House
Would you like to ride with your kids for exercise, fun, socializing? Kids in bike-seats welcome! Kids in trailers welcome! Kids on bikes welcome! Meet at Jika-Jika Community Centre, corner of Union and Plant streets, Northcote with bikes, helmets and energy! For more information: Call Linda at Jika Jika 9482 5100. Jika-Jika Community House: January - June Program. (PDF file, 173 KB)

Human Powered Cycles
From Human Powered Cycles: We are providers of Human Powered training and technology development. We also supply bicycle parts, accessories and high quality repairs and servicing. “Human Powered” is an active alternative to our motorised, electrified societies. Whether it’s bicycles, trikes, recumbent cycles, or other ecologically and socially beneficial alternatives, we’re here to support it and support you!

Workshops and Tuition - See their website for more details on available courses for Introductory bicycle mechanics, Intermediate bicycle mechanics and Advanced bicycle mechanics: wheel building and truing. They also have a workshop available and an Induction Process is a prerequisite to any workshop work or commencing courses. The Human Powered Cycles workshop located at rear of 38 Harrison St, Brunswick East. Click here for Google Map.

The ‘Melburn Roobaix’
Who could ever forget the Mapei team from last years ride? Well it’s on again, from Fyxomatosis: Melburn Roobaix is a group bike ride themed around the glorious ‘Paris Roubaix’ road race. You’ll need to navigate your way around Melbourne on a course that should take a leisurely two hours to complete, taking in time for a coffee on the way. That doesn’t mean it won’t hurt though. Saturday 7 July, 12pm, Fed Square. See you there, bring your friends. (and your fixie) More info at Fyxomatosis.

Tour de France on SBS
Stay tuned for SBS LIVE broadcast details on this year’s Tour. Running from Saturday July 7th to Sunday July 29th 2007, the 94th Tour de France will be made up of a prologue and 20 stages and will cover a total distance of 3,550 kilometres. The wheels never stop turning on SBS TV for fans of cycling. This year’s Tour coverage starts in London on Saturday 7 July and will continue through to the finish in Paris three weeks later.

Women 4 Cycling Winter Seminar…for Ladies Only! 15 Places only!
Gran Prix Bicycles in association with Dee Blegg from Studio 404 Personal Training are providing a comprehensive half-day Women’s Specific Cycling Workshop, to be held over 2 consecutive weekends. There are exercises before and after you are on the bike to enhance strength, speed, comfort and also prevent injuries. Upper and lower body conditioning, core strength, stretching and flexibility are all key components in performance enhancement and injury prevention and should be incorporated into every athletes training regime and bike riding is no exception.

Gran Prix will cover general bicycle maintenance; getting you hands dirty in changing a flat, proper bike accessories and appropriate clothing to wear during your ride and a omplimentary Bike Check Up. When: Sundays, 5th and 12th August from 3.00pm to 7.00pm. Where: Gran Prix Bicycles and Studio 404. Cost: $88.00 (for 2 weekends)

Community News

Yarra Climate Action Now! Meeting 13 June
From YCAN! - What Can You Do About Climate Change? More Than You Think! It is now accepted that climate change is upon us, and immediate action is required to stop the rising temperatures. YCAN! is an independent community group that aims to work with residents, businesses, schools and government, to make sure climate change is being addressed within our community. We invite you to attend our next meeting. The key focus will be identifying what is required to adapt to climate change and become a sustainable community.

What do you need to begin addressing climate change? How can we help? Come along with your questions, ideas and concerns! When: Wednesday, 13th June. Where: Kindness House 288 Brunswick St, Fitzroy. Time: 6:30pm - 7:30pm. For more information see: www.yarraclimateactionnow.blogspot.com
Contact: Shannon Higgs yarraclimateactionnow@gmail.com Ph: 0417 301 694

Cycle Against the Nuclear Cycle III
CAN starts in Rockhampton on Monday 25 June and finishes in Port Augusta on Friday 2 November. CAN is a community group concerned about the false claim that nuclear technology will provide a clean green solution to climate change. We hope to promote truly clean and green energy alternatives, while building a pro-active cycling community and having fun.

3CR Seeking Radio Announcers
Are you a community minded, consciousness raising, gravel blazing cyclist with a yen to be on radio?! 3CR is considering having a cycling show that seeks to promote urban cycling as a viable means of transport to people and to campaign via the media to improve cycling conditions. 3CR is Melbourne’s largest community radio station and is committed to providing media access to communities and campaigns traditionally denied access to mainstream media. All 3CR programmers need to be accepted as volunteers of 3CR, in alliance with the station’s philosophy, undergo general radio training provided by 3CR, produce and present their radio programs off their own bat, be paid up subscribers and be actively involved in 3CR’s annual fundraising drive.

For more information about 3CR listen in on 855AM or through webstreaming on www.3cr.org.au. Read about our radical history and our mission at www.3cr.org.au. For more information contact Bree at 3CR on specialprojects@3cr.org.au or call 9419 8377 Tuesday to Thursday. Bree McKilligan, Special Projects Coordinator, 3CR Community Radio Ph: 9419 8377

The Sacred Heart Community Cup
Hey ho lets go. It’s the fourteenth annual Sacred Heart Community Cup. See grass roots footy when traditional rivals the Triple R – PBS Megahertz take on the Espy Rock Dogs to raise money for the Sacred Heart Mission, St Kilda. Additional entertainment will be Mach Pelican, Bob Log 111, The Rockwiz orchestra featuring special guests, The Double Agents, Crystal Thomas and Les Fleus du mal and Killer Birds. This is a dog and kid friendly day. With food and drinks available, no BYO. Admission this year is $5- on the gate with all proceeds from the day going to the Mission Sunday the 24th of June. At the Junction Oval, St Kilda. Gates open at 11am Bounce at 2.30pm.

Link Up Melbourne
LinkUp Melbourne is campaigning for several improvements to Melbourne public transport system including:
- Real political commitment from the State Government to transport change;
- Priority for public transport;
- Reform of transport planning arrangements to break the power of the road lobby, based on Perth model;
- Traffic calming on residential streets, with priority for pedestrians and cyclists.

Our Public Transport
The “Take it back ‘07” Campaign is a group of citizens who have had enough of watching our public transport system be run into the ground under private ownership. We have no affiliations with any political parties. Anyone who supports the aim of the campaign can join – there are no membership fees. All you need to do is to care and to take action. Help create the people power needed to reclaim our transport system.

Zero Emission Network
The Zero Emission Network is a network that supports the global campaign to reduce humanity’s net greenhouse gas emissions to zero and below, with the view to reducing atmospheric greenhouse gases to a level that will enable humanity and our natural environment to thrive and flourish. It is an independent alliance of groups, providing opportunities to share ideas, link campaigns and support each other.

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Eddington Study - East-West Link Needs Assessment - Public meeting at Collingwood Town Hall on Tuesday 8 May at 7pm

Yarra Council is holding a public meeting to inform our residents of what the East-West Link Needs Assessment (also known as the Eddington Study) will be looking at. The study is focused on the transport corridor from the end of the Eastern Freeway/Hoddle Street to about the Western Ring Road. There are several proposals as to what this could mean and how much money may be spent on the various proposals.

This session is to provide information about the East-West Link Needs Assessment and to encourage Yarra residents to make a submission. This is your opportunity to have your say on the scope of the study.

To help residents prepare their submissions, the City of Yarra is hosting a Public Information Session to explain the enquiry process and discuss key transport issues affecting the East-West corridor. (Study area generally extends from the Eastern Freeway/Hoddle Street to the Western Ring Road).

When: 6.45pm for 7.00pm start, Tuesday 8 May, 2007

Where: Main Hall, Collingwood Town Hall, Hoddle Street, Collingwood

RSVP: Monday 7 May by calling 9205 5025

Guest presenters include:
• Tony Canavan, Chief Executive Officer of the East-West Needs Link Assessment
• Chris Loader, Bus Association of Victoria

Yarra City Council strongly encourages members of the Yarra community to make a submission to inform the study by the closing date, Thursday 31 May, 2007.

For more information about the East-West Link Needs Assessment, including a study overview, reference questions and submission guidelines, please visit www.doi.vic.gov.au and follow the ‘East-West Link Needs Assessment’ link.

Getting to the Collingwood Town Hall:
• Collingwood Railway Station (two minute walk)
• Buses: Hoddle Street routes 246, 301-309, 313, 315, 316, 319, 340 and 350. Johnston Street routes 200, 201, 203, 205 and 207.

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YarraBUG Meetings for 2007
Yarra Council Bicycle Advisory Committee Meetings for 2007
Gipps Street Steps Update
Video Ezy Site
The Steinbecks Host Melbourne’s First Bike Only Gig
Celluloid Cycles - A Festival of Bicycles on Film
MBTC Mad Ride - April 1 2007
Palm Sunday Ride
Bicycles in the News: Modern Mechanix: The Bicycle Comes Back

ISSUES

YarraBUG Meetings for 2007
Our meetings are held 7.30pm every 3rd Tuesday, at Suede Bar, 284 Smith Street, Collingwood. Meeting dates for 2007: 20 March, 17 April, 15 May, 19 June, 17 July, 21 August, 18 September, 16 October, 20 November, 18 December. All welcome!

Topics for our next meeting tomorrow night will include YarraBUG administration, banking, incorporation and a draft submission for the Clifton Hill Rail Project. Also we’ll do a review of recent events that YarraBUG has been involved with, including the Sustainable Living Festival, Celebrate Yarra Festival, Bicycle Victoria Bike Counts and Bike Path Discovery Day (see pic above!)

Yarra Council Bicycle Advisory Committee Meetings (BAC) for 2007
Next meeting dates for 2007: 27 June, 29 August and 31 October. The April meeting is cancelled due to Anzac Day and December TBA. The City of Yarra’s Bicycle Advisory Committee (BAC) meets six times per year. The BAC’s role is to provide advice to the Councillors and Council staff about the development of bicycle infrastructure in the City of Yarra. The BAC is chaired by a Councillor, currently Kathleen Maltzahn and resourced by the Council’s Transport Unit. Most meetings are held at 6.30pm, Meeting Room 1, Richmond Town Hall, although these are subject to change. Please contact Richard Smithers (Transport Coordinator, City of Yarra) for further details: ph (03) 9205-5739, mob 0437 355 821, email: smitherr@yarracity.vic.gov.au

Gipps Street Steps Update
At the February Yarra Council BAC meeting, it was discussed that further action was required to prompt further development for plans of the proposed ramp and bridge construction by Parks Victoria and local government. YarraBUG will contact relevant state government ministers and Parks Victoria to this effect.

Video Ezy Site
This site on the Linear Park shared path has been subject to much community consultation and action by MorelandBUG and YarraBUG. (See YarraBUG October News) YarraBUG has received correspondence from Moreland Councils mayor that states the area is now under “review”. Along with Moreland BUG, we will monitor any further developments that affect shared path access.

EVENTS & RIDES

The Steinbecks Host Melbourne’s First Bike Only Gig
31 March 2007 4pm, Brunswick Velodrome (Just past CERES on the Merri Creek Bike Path) Usually when you think of Rock & Roll on the road it’s trucks and roadies and denim and bulging mid riffs. Time to think again. Ahead of the April release of their new album Far From the Madding Crowd, Melbourne pop disciples The Steinbecks will play this bike access-only, free gig at the Brunswick Velodrome, past CERES heading North on the Merri Creek Bike Path. Everything will be transported by bikes! To provide inspiration to others and to publicise bike events the ride, set up and performance will be filmed for editing into a later Steinbecks/bike promo video clip. The band will play a 45-minute set. It’s BYO picnic and drinks. There will be a free bike repair stall, staffed by the good folk from Bike Fix, and other fun bike related stuff. For more information contact Joel Meadows 9429 2193 or info@thesteinbecks.net.au
www.microindie.com/steinbecks

Celluloid Cycles - A Festival of Bicycles on Film
From Tim: We’re back for 07 with a barrow-load of new films about bicycles and the people who ride them. The 2nd Annual Celluloid Cycles Literary Award, some drinks, some food, some tunes, kindred spirits. In the heart of Melbourne town. Date: March 26 - April 1 2007 Where: Kaleide Theatre, RMIT University, Swanston Street, Melbourne (b/w La Trobe St and the City Baths) The Kaleide Theatre is located diagonally opposite Melbourne Central Station. Trams travel along both Swanston St and La Trobe St. There is space galore to lock bikes out the front.

MBTC Mad Ride - April 1 2007
The Melbourne Bicycle Touring Club hosts the 2007 Melbourne Autumn Day Tour! This is a day tour - not a race! Early entries have closed but you can still enter online to save the hassle of doing it on the day. You will need to collect your rider information sheet from the Buffalo Sports Stadium in Woodend before you leave on the ride. Why not come along and join the fun? Choose one of 3 delightful routes. All are within the Macedon Ranges region, an easy hour’s drive from Melbourne. Where do you start? Buffalo Sports Stadium, Tylden Rd, Woodend (Melway 509, G 9) strictly from 8:30am – 10am.

Palm Sunday Ride
From Jessica Morrison ICAN Director - Australia: Palm Sunday is the traditional day for peace and anti-nuclear events, and this year we are inviting people and groups to ride to the events. This year Palm Sunday falls on April Fools Day – Sunday 1st April - so we are using the theme “Nuclear Fool Cycle”. We invite your group to join and support us by meeting and cycling together to the Treasury Gardens. You may consider decorating your bikes with “nuclear fool cycle” themes. For more information see www.nuclearfoolsday.org, please contact Jessica on Jessica.morrison@mapw.org.au or 0431 519 577

Bicycles in the News
Modern Mechanix: The Bicycle Comes Back. This article was first published in Popular Science in July, 1936. Actually, the bicycle never went away and is gaining in popularity everyday in 2007! Check the Wheels of Justice site for more bicycle advocacy news.

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