If you are keen to learn how to become a better cyclist, it’s time to get on your bike.
The Disability Trust’s CycleAbility program is tailored towards helping people with disability improve their cycling skills whether they are already comfortable on a bike or have no experience whatsoever.
Our first Come and Try Day for 2024 was held recently and there were plenty of smiling faces with more than 40 budding cyclists enjoying the chance to test out their prowess.
The Come and Try Days are held regularly, on the last Saturday of every month outside The Disability Trust head office at Edney Lane in Wollongong.
Former Australian representative cyclist Brad Heffernan runs the CycleAbility program along with devoted volunteers who help out.
The program started in 2022 with TDT Chief Operating Officer Ed Birt riding across the country to raise funds and along with support from Michael Norris and Amy Carroll and the Sport and Recreation team, CycleAbility has thrived due to their ongoing support.
Last year, Brad started also doing one-on-one training with participants on a regular basis.
Brad covers everything from the basics of learning to ride, whether that’s on a standard two-wheel bike or a trike, in a safe environment.
The program, runs in a range of locations catering to each individual’s needs and experience, using the Illawarra’s diverse mix of cycleways and shared pathways along with TDT’s car park at the Wollongong head office on occasions for beginners.
Brad also uses the new Unanderra Criterium track for sessions as the circuit is safe and closed to traffic.
Work recently started at the criterium for a new facility to be built to become the new home for CycleAbility.
Everyone in the program gets a decent physical workout as they improve their balance and coordination, gain self-confidence and independence, all while getting outside and being active.
The CycleAbility program has its own All-Abilities team which competes annually in the shorter course in the famous Sydney 2 Gong event.
Participants also get active in other events like Ride Wollongong and the All Abilities Ride.
Other TDT programs like Vacation Care and TeenAbility also get involved with CycleAbility.
“The goal is for people to have the ability to gain their own independence from the program,” Brad said.
“They get movement, exercise, enjoyment – they love it.”
There are plans to expand the program into new regions – stay tuned for further announcements.
For more information about CycleAbility individual sessions and the monthly Come and Try Day, email or call 1300 347 224.
