New all abilities learn to ride bike facility for Canberra’s Evatt community playground

Abilities Unlimited Australia has secured $425,000 from the ACT Government to construct a new 370 metre hard surface accessible Road Safety Learn to Ride bike track and a bike storage shed for the Evatt community playground to help children of all abilities to learn to ride.

This funding has been provided through the ACT Government’s 2024 Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme.

Chris Nunn, Chairman of the Board of Abilities Unlimited Australia shared “Abilities Unlimited Australia is absolutely delighted to support the development of a community facility that will enhance road safety awareness of all children and their families.

“The project has been a dream of Abilities Unlimited Australia volunteers for several years and with this funding from the ACT Government, it will now come to fruition.”

ACT Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said road safety awareness was essential for young bike riders and noted “This new community facility will provide a safe environment that will allow inclusive instruction for children of all abilities.

“An active, healthy lifestyle is a basic right for all children, and we want to support organisations like Abilities Unlimited Australia to provide services for children to make that possible.

“This new funding through the ACT Government’s 2024 Sport and Recreation Investment Scheme will provide a safe facility for the use of the entire community.”

Construction is set to start next month on the new path that will make learning to ride safer for children participating in the AUA’s Cyclabilities program.

The Cyclabilities program is an inclusive cycling initiative for children of all abilities that teaches cycling skills and also fosters social, emotional and physical development.

Cyclabilities, held on Saturday mornings, currently has over 100 participants and it is anticipated that with the addition of the new hard surface bike path, participation will grow.

While open to the entire community, the new facility will provide a more welcoming and inclusive environment as well as capacity for AUA to store bikes and other equipment in the new storage shed on site.

Abilities Unlimited Australia provides tailored programs for children with disabilities, promoting inclusion and empowering every child to discover their potential through sports.

Their 1:1 and small group sports programs are designed to meet the unique needs and abilities of each child.

Image. Credit: Abilities Unlimited Australia