Congratulations to Maroondah residents and Council employees, who once again cycled to work in support of National Ride2Work Day, on Wednesday 16 October.
Maroondah Councillor and member of the Maroondah Environment Advisory Committee Paul Macdonald said increasing support for the annual event showed people were keen to use active and sustainable methods of transport to commute and to pursue an active lifestyle.
"It was fantastic to have so many cyclists participate and embrace the health message, not to mention joining us bright and early for a community breakfast, held at Ringwood Town Square and at Croydon Town Square," Cr Macdonald said.
"The breakfast also provided an opportunity for cyclists to meet and share travel tips, as well as take advantage of a free massage or bike tune-up.
"The healthy initiative gave many people who have been thinking about riding to work a chance to give it a try. I hope a few of these first-timers will now be encouraged to keep it up. Cycling is a wonderful form of exercise, and with the weather now getting warmer, it's a great time to start a new healthy habit," he said.
According to the Bicycle Network, more than half of people who ride to work for the first time on Ride2Work Day report that they convert to weekly bike rides.
Cr Macdonald said that aside from the health benefits, people who cycled to work could save as much as $15,000 a year on transport costs, while a 5km to 10km ride to work could take less than 30 minutes.
For those with a long journey to work, Cr Macdonald said a Parkiteer secure bicycle cage, located at Croydon, Heatherdale and Ringwood stations, meant cyclists could park their bike and ride public transport the rest of the way.
"The Parkiteer bike cage provides a convenient, undercover and secure place to park your bike, allowing fast access to the station to continue your journey by public transport," he said.
Not only was riding a health option for getting to and from work, but also one of the most cost effective methods of transport, he said.
"We are extremely fortunate in Maroondah that we have access to various forms of public transport and an extensive network of bicycle paths, including the picturesque Mullum Mullum Creek Trail and Dandenong Creek Trail, as well as the EastLink Trail, which links into the city as well as south to Frankston.
"So, with some planning, there are many ways to get to work without using your car. Plus, you have the added benefit of less stress and a healthier lifestyle," Cr Macdonald added.
For details on cycling tracks and trails, as well as public transport timetables, to help plan your route to and from work, click on our Maroondah interactive map.
Information on National Ride2Work Day is available at www.bicyclenetwork.com.au
