Queenslanders encouraged to celebrate cycling on National Ride2Work Day

Queenslanders will join the rest of the country today to celebrate the benefits of cycling on National Ride2Work Day.

Main Roads and Road Safety Minister Mark Bailey said more people were swapping their car for a bike, to cycle to work across the state.

“The 760,800 Queensland cyclists already riding each week are reducing air pollution, greenhouse gas emissions and congestion on the road,” Mr Bailey said.

“We know from cycling surveys that another 1.53 million people want to ride more, and the Palaszczuk Government is committed to building the infrastructure needed to make it possible.

“We’re investing more than $162 million into cycling infrastructure over the next four years, to make it safer and easier to cycle throughout Queensland.”

Minister for Housing and Public Works Mick de Brenni said he would do his part and ride to work for the annual event, which encourages Australians to get out of their cars and pedal instead.

“The Palaszczuk Government is proud to work with great on-going supporters of cycling, such as Bicycle Queensland, who are hosting a free ride to work breakfast in Brisbane at the Law Courts Plaza on George Street from 7am,” Mr de Brenni said.

“This is just one of the many celebratory events being held around Queensland. There are also events on the Sunshine Coast and in Toowoomba.

“A great example of our commitment to cycling infrastructure is stage one of the North Brisbane Bikeway, that opened to the public last month.

“And earlier this year I was pleased to announce an extra $4 million injection into safer cycling in my home town of Logan, as part of the V1 Cycleway project.

“These important links in South East Queensland’s cycle network separates motorists from cyclists, making it safer and easier for them to reach their destination.

“I encourage cyclists in the area to leave their car at home, get on their bikes and take advantage of this great new cycling infrastructure.

“These are just more examples of the Palaszczuk Government improving our cycleways to make it easier for more people to cycle.”

Mr Bailey said the Palaszczuk Government is also forming a new cycling strategy, following the Queensland Cycling Forum held in August.

“The contribution we received at the forum from Bicycle user groups, Local governments, academics and other cycling groups is helping us shape the new strategy and action plan,” Mr Bailey said.

“The cycling strategy for the state will set the direction for cycling in Queensland over the next ten years.

“We will also release a two-year action plan, which will focus on what we need to do right now to get more people riding.” 

ENDS

Media contact:

Minister Bailey's office - 0428 079 640

Minister de Brenni's office - 0447 164 197