MEDIA RELEASE, 7 September 2012
Darebin resident Grace Longmead hasn’t looked back since purchasing an electric bicycle as part of a Darebin Council and Moreland Energy Foundation Limited (MEFL) bulk buy scheme earlier this year.
Grace purchased an Easymax electric bicycle initially to improve her personal health and well-being, decrease personal transport costs, and do her bit to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and pollution.
She didn’t expect the newfound freedom and fun she has experienced since getting out and about on her new bike.
The electric bicycle bulk buy scheme was offered by Darebin Council together with Moreland Energy Foundation Limited (MEFL) early in 2012. It gave residents the opportunity to purchase electric bicycles at a reduced price as part of Council’s commitment to reducing community greenhouse gas emissions and promoting lifestyles which are healthier for residents and the environment.
The Easymax electric bicycles were test ridden by both new and experienced cyclists, with the test riders all smiles at how easy the riding was – especially up hills!
Council encourages residents who are also keen to ride a little more often, to consider beginning with Ride to Work Day on 17 October 2012. The event encourages people who might be thinking about commuting by bicycle, or who might be thinking about riding more often, to give it a try. Cyclists are encouraged to consider getting a group together to ride to work, so that those more experienced riders can provide assistance and support to those who are still ‘finding their wheels’.
Nominations are now open for the Banyule and Darebin Councils’ Sustainability Awards. If you or someone you know has made significant changes to reduce car use and greenhouse gas emissions, now is the time to nominate them or yourself for an award Nominations close on Sunday, 16 September, with winners announced and prizes awarded at the Sustainability Awards Night on Thursday, 22 November at Preston Town Hall. For more information about the Sustainability Awards, including nomination forms, visit www.sustainablecommunities.vic.gov.au/awards
Top tips to travelling sustainably:
• Set yourself a challenge to drive less – even if it’s only one day a week
• Speak to your work colleagues, friends or neighbours about sharing a ride to cut down on your car use.
• Join DBUG to find out about their education programs or take part in some of their recreational rides
• Sign up to Ride to Work Day http://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/ride2work
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