Empowering young people with practical skills and sustainable transport, WestCycle recently delivered a successful bike education program at Carnarvon Community College. WestCycle Regional Coordinator, Andrew Turns, and Josh Curulli, Schools Manager, led the initiative.

Andrew highlighted the program’s crucial role: “We know that bikes in regional communities are underutilised due to access to parts and knowledge on how to repair bikes once they get flat tyres or gears and brakes no longer work. This program is designed to empower students to repair common issues and share their knowledge with others.”

Bikes generously donated by the local shire after being handed in by the community were enthusiastically repaired by the students. The refurbished bikes were given to participants, providing them with reliable transport for school or sporting activities.

The program received great feedback from participants and staff. Nick from Clontarf shared:

“On behalf of the Carnarvon Clontarf fellas, thanks greatly for coming all the way to Carnarvon to show the boys the A-Q of bike maintenance (the essential skills from A to Q). The lads had a great time working with their hands in an engaging session outside the classroom. The older lads were out over the weekend riding around town on their new bikes. Edgar is now riding to footy training rather than waiting for the bus.”

WestCycle is looking to expand this program in the regions over the coming years with wider community reach, aiming to bring these vital skills and transportation opportunities to even more regional areas and age groups.

The program was delivered in conjunction with DLGSC, Shire of Carnarvon, and the Clontarf Foundation, showcasing the power of collaborative community initiatives.