Bicycle NSW is a Member-funded organisation. The individuals and groups at the heart of the Bicycle NSW community are how we are able to do our work. They are also why we do our work. It is for them that we continue to campaign for a better cycling environment across NSW.
Yvonne Everett is actively involved in Coffs Hikers, an outdoor adventure club with a busy and varied program of outdoor activities. Coff Hikers recently affiliated as a Bicycle NSW Bicycle User Group and Yvonne decided to join Bicycle NSW to benefit from the cycling insurance that membership provides.
Yvonne was kind enough to share her cycling story with us, as well her recent adventures by bike on the beautiful Coffs Coast.
How did you get into cycling?
“Age four, I stole my older brother’s bike and rode it around the backyard. Of course I fell off, but that didn’t stop me! I was raised in South Africa, and at six, like many children, I was sent off to school on my bicycle. I rode to and from school every day for the next twelve years, through rain, wind and sunshine.
“Of course, like most children, I enjoyed the freedom of riding my bike, and usually took detours on my way home - via a juicy mulberry tree, through the bush on secret paths, or stopping to play at a friend’s house. I got lost more than once, but always found my way home eventually. I still delight in getting lost!”
Yvonne age ten riding to school (Image: Yvonne Everett)
“My first bike had no gears and back-pedal brakes, but by the time I finished school I was the proud owner of a bright red ten-speed drop handle-bar bicycle. That bicycle went with me to university, and I continued to ride in a few events, such as the Cape Town Cycle Tour, the largest individually timed cycling event in the world.
“Work, kids, a move to Australia, and a long break from cycling followed."
Up to 35,000 riders join the 109km route around the Cape Peninsula every March! (Image: www.capetowncycletour.com)
When and where did you start cycling again?
“About ten years ago, I started riding again on a road bike, and joined events in Sydney such as Gear Up Girl and Spring Cycle. Then two years ago, recently retired and living in Coffs Harbour, we bought e-MTBs. We have been having the best fun on two wheels ever since!
“I ride frequently, into town for coffee with friends, to the library, and longer trips on cycleways and shared paths, such as the lovely Coffs Creek, for exercise. We also take our bikes with us on holiday, and have enjoyed many rides around Australia, such as Indigo Epic and the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail.
“But the rides I enjoy the most are the crazy adventures into our local Coffs Coast state forests on fire trails and single tracks.
“These rides bring out the joy of that long ago wild child in Africa who could do anything and go anywhere on her bike. I love splashing through creeks, bumping over rocks, getting tired and dirty, never knowing what I might find around the next corner.
“You can find some favourite rides on our website CoffsTrails.com”
Crossing a dodgy bridge while exploring a local state forest (Image: Yvonne Everett)
How are you involved with the cycling community around you?
“Of course, adventures are always better when shared with friends. I hike and ride with Coffs Hikers, who are affiliated with Bushwalking NSW as well as Bicycle NSW.
“Coffs Hikers explain the benefits of Bicycle NSW membership and encourage all Coffs Hikers cycling members to join up.
“I signed up for membership with Bicycle NSW because of the great insurance it offers, and to support the advocacy work that the team does. Coffs Hikers are in the process of accrediting their cycling leaders through the Ride Leader training that Bicycle NSW offers.
“I love my trusty bicycle and going for a ride, and I hope to continue exploring for many more years!”
Before you pedal off!
Bicycle NSW is the only bicycle advocacy group based in NSW with full-time staff advocating every day for all riders. Our small team is dedicated to making NSW better for bike riding.
But did you know that we are funded only by membership fees and donations?
If you are not ready to join the Bicycle NSW family, then we would love you to consider a donation to the Australian Bicycle Advocacy Fund.
