October 13, 2014

Pedal power your way to better health on Ride to Uni day

Fresh air, fitness and a free breakfast await those taking part in the sixth annual Ride to Uni Day on Wednesday (15 October).

The day is part of the Australia-wide Ride to Work Day, which involves more than 50,000 Australians riding their bikes to work as well as encouraging people who have never ridden to work to give it a go. 

Virginie Schmelitschek, of UOW’s Bicycle Users Group (BUG), says that they’re trying to encourage staff and students to ride to uni. 

“It will help to reduce emissions, getting fit while riding, clear your head after a day in the office or class room, and avoid parking hassles and fees.”

Transport Project Officer Anna McNeil, who has organised the event, believes more people could be riding to campus.

“Cycling is as quick as driving if you live within seven kilometres, and we work closely with Wollongong City Council and the Roads and Maritime Services to improve signage and bike paths to and from campus,” she said.

“The Wollongong campus has approximately 800 bike parking spaces and bike racks outside most buildings, with 400 and 600 people arriving to the Wollongong campus by bike each day.”

Facilities Management Division has implemented initiatives to make the Wollongong campus a more inviting place for bike riders.

“One recent initiative was the installation of two bike maintenance stations, outside building 20 and also on the Jugglers Lawn, and there are also four secure undercover bike lockups, with access to showers and lockers,” Ms McNeil said. There will be a free breakfast held on the Jugglers Lawn for all those who participate on the day.

For more information or to register, visit the website.