Cycling forward with bike events

Regular and occasional cyclists can enjoy the forecast perfect weather next week, to take advantage of Bike Week.

Transport and Main Roads Minister Scott Emerson said Bike Week (March 16 to 24) is aimed at encouraging more people to use a bicycle more frequently.

"Bike Week, run by Bicycle Queensland, has activities for all ages and abilities," Mr Emerson said.

“Start planning now for Ride to Work Day and the breakfast on Thursday March 21, and the Great Brisbane Bike Ride on Sunday March 24.

“Already, around 814,000 Queenslanders ride a bike each week, making this not only a healthy and enjoyable pastime but also an important tool in our fight against road congestion.”

Bike Week celebrations follow this week’s Asia Pacific Cycle Congress (APCC) on the Gold Coast.

“I enjoyed attending the congress today and discuss an array of topical cycling issues, such as cycle planning, safety, education and engaging the community,” he said.

“Local and international experts and enthusiasts are united at this event, so there is plenty of debate and discussion taking place about these topics.

“Cycling is growing each year and the APCC addresses how we can accommodate this increase by recognising how bicycles make a valuable contribution.

“At the congress I discussed how the bike has the ability to change our cities with key people such as Tony Jones and Olympic gold medallist Sara Carrigan.”

The APCC is being hosted by the Gold Coast City Council and supported by funding from the Newman Government.

The APCC is currently being held on the Gold Coast until Wednesday and Bike Week will run from 16 to 24 March.

For more information on Bike Week events, go to www.bikeweek.bq.org.au

[ENDS] 12 March 2013

Media contact:           Eleisha Rogers 0413 375 088