14 Sept 2007 - Fun Packed Bike Week Kicks Off

This year's Bike Week (September 22-30) is packed with activities for all age groups and all levels of riders.

"Cycling is a great exercise, it's a social activity and a really great way to enjoy being outdoors. If you haven't been near a bike in years, or are looking for a new way to get fit, Bike Week's a good time to start," said Councillor Ian Hogbin, a member of Council's Bike Users Committee.

The first event is a special ride to mark the first anniversary of the regular Community Bike Rides, which began during Bike Week last year. 

On Saturday, September 22, the regular ride from the city centre to Sawtell will finish at the Bunker Cartoon Gallery for the riders to have a sneak preview of the 19th Annual Rotary Cartoon Awards show. Sawtell Lions Club and the Xpresso Coffee van will be in the car park of the Bunker Gallery so that people can eat breakfast at the gallery and view the exhibition after the ride. Anyone wishing to join in should meet at City Square at 6.30am.

This year a special, early morning 'Ride to Work' has also begun. Cyclists are invited to meet at Coffs Harbour Swimming Pool at 6am. All levels of rider are welcome with a choice of two routes - to Sawtell Headland or around the Jetty area. All riders are back at the pool by 7.30am. Anyone taking part can have breakfast at the pool and use its facilities to shower and change before work. Bikes can also be stored there during the day.

On Sunday, September 23, the annual 'Bike Week Family Day' will be held at the Velodrome from 8:30am. Local cycling groups have organised demonstrations, races, fun events such as a "Best Dressed Bike Parade' with prizes, 'boot camp' exercise demonstrations and information on cycling. There will also be plenty of refreshment options available.

"A number of schools have also organised special rides during Bike Week and mechanics will be on hand at the Family Day to carry out free safety checks on any bike brought along, so school students can safely cycle on those organised rides," said Council's Road Safety Officer Anne Shearer.

Coffs Harbour's Regional Museum has also entered into the spirit of Bike Week and will be holding an exhibition of bikes, photos and other cycling memorabilia from Tuesday, September 25-30.

The Museum is open Tuesday to Saturday, from 10am - 4pm. For more information, or to offer any relevant exhibits, please phone the Museum on 6652 5794.

For more information on Bike Week events, check at your local bike shop.