News — October–November 2000
Petrol Prices and Bikes
High petrol prices are hurting us, particularly in Western Sydney which has bad public transport and many people from lower socio-economic backgrounds. Cycling can play a very significant role in addressing our over-dependence on oil by providing an alternative to the car, particularly for (common) short trips. Governments need to accelerate their implementation of cycling infrastructure. We include a list of references:
"The most powerful force fuelling oil’s volatility... is the black stuff’s paramount importance in transport." The Economist, 'Euroshambles'
CAMWEST on Sydney Morning Herald
The 14 Oct issue of Icon, the home computing supplement of the Sydney Morning Herald, covered good cycling web sites. We were very honoured to be included in the list, which pointed to our article on cycling to work.
See the Icon article on cycling sites.
Parramatta Council Reviews Bike Plan
On Monday 4 September Parramatta Council agreed to review the Parramatta Bike Plan. It is intended that this review be complete in time to have input to Council's budget process for 2001/02. As part of the review the following items are to be included:
- Ongoing funding to contribute to the implementation of the Bike Plan
- Consideration of the appointment of an Accessibility Education Officer whose duties will include cycling education.
- Commitment to promotion and marketing of cycling in Parramatta
- Section 94 funding to contribute to cycling infrastructure
Olympics Review
While most people cramped into slow trains to get to events, a few enjoyed a pleasant ride to Olympic Park, the Velodrome and Fairfield Farm (mountain bikes). Others took the chance to start riding to work to avoid the crowds. We did a quick saddle survey of the cycleway from the west a week before the games started, and were pleasantly surprised. We now have a good legacy of cycleways which will serve us well for some time. The para-olympics are coming soon, and bikes are still a great way to get to the events. Take the whole family!
The best thing to do is to get the RTA's FREE Cycleways
maps. Call 1 800 060 607, or
get an electronic version. We especially recommend the
Homebush map.
From Westmead, Parramatta, Rydalmere, Ermington, and
Meadowbank, simply take the Parramatta Valley Cycleway and
turn south towards Rhodes.
From South Strathfield, Canterbury, and Tempe, follow the
Cooks River cycleway north.
These cycleways are mostly off-road paths, so you won't have
to worry about cars. There is a number of undercover
U-rails to lock your bikes to in the two main car parking
areas.
Many people will be inspired to get more active after watching so many great athletes. Let's take advantage of this to encourage them to try cycling.
Our congratulations to all cyclists in the Australian team, particularly Brad McGee from Western Sydney.
CAMWEST Annual General Meeting
We had our AGM recently. It was a great time to reflect on our achievements in the last year and to plan the coming year. Joining a local Bicycle User Group is a great way to get things done (and make friends!). Why not join one of our rides or meetings? See more about us.
A Pedal Through Time
CAMWEST, in conjunction with the Heritage River project, organised a successful historical ride around Greater Parramatta. 17 riders ventured out on a cold overcast day on a guided bike tour of the main historical sites. After registration at Old Government House in Parramatta Park which included coffee and biscuits, the group made its way down George St passing a number of unique sites on our way to the Female Orphanage at the current UWS Rydalmere campus. We also meandered our way past other significant sites like Elizabeth Farm, Lake Parramatta and Burnside Homes.
All that history and moderate exercise built up a healthy apetite and we were treated to a Ploughman's Lunch with wine, fruit and coffee in elegant surroundings. The group were obviously taken aback as they entered the marquee in the grounds of the Old Government House that had been prepared for a wedding reception with its polished floors and silver service. It was an effort to get back into the saddle but an adventure awaited us as we headed off-road in an attempt to follow the Toongabbie Creek tributary of the Parramatta River to the site of the Sydney's third settlement. Our return to Parramatta Park was via the old gaol and the fascinating Cumberland Hospital.
Next year's ride promises to be even better with the likelihood of it being held in Heritage Week, April and likely to involve the RTA, Council and a local historian. At less than 40 km and level terrain, this is an excellent ride for new cyclists and irregular riders with an interest in history.
CAMWEST Rides Coming Up!
The Bay to Mountains ride is nearly upon us (Sunday 29 October) - have you registered? We need to know how many people are coming so we can organise catering. This is the day when the Parramatta-Liverpool Rail Trail will be officially opened, and the ride will include it as part of the route. Come along for a great day and see some of the good things that are happening in the west.
Cycleway extension progress
We continue to work on the connection to the Parramatta Valley Cycle Way from Rydalmere Wharf to James Ruse Drive on the north side of the River, through the University grounds. The underpass under James Ruse Drive is already open. Check it out!
Liverpool Busway EIS, Meeting
CAMWEST produced a submission in response to the EIS for the Parramatta-Liverpool Busway. We supported the concept of a cycleway along the route. We will be having a meeting with the RTA to discuss the design and route of the cycleway. See the EIS online or call 1800 335 742.
Active Australia Day Preparation
This year's Active Australia Day is on
Sunday October 29. Why not get that old bike out of
the garage and go for a ride? You could set yourself a
challenge for the big day and start training now. Otherwise
you could join us in one of our rides.
CAMWEST is an official event organiser. We are joining the party by organising one of our popular community rides on the day, the Bay to Mountains.
RTA Removes Breakdown Lane
We must give our thumbs down to the RTA for closing the breakdown lane along Qantas Drive.
Cycle Rickshaws in Sydney
A CAMWEST member has spotted a cycle rickshaw in Sydney
CBD! Rickshaws are three wheel cycles with a a two person
'couch' at the back and a rider. They are a very common
'taxi' all over Asia. While the CAMWESTie was lucky enough to
use them in Nepal and India, he's happy to see them coming to
Sydney too! They are a fun, 'green' way to get around town.
They are also quiet and clean. It'd be great to have some in
Parramatta CBD!
More on Rickshaws
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