Two deputy mayors from the Surf Coast and Golden Plains have battled it out in a cycling showdown to raise awareness for safe cycling.
Surf Coast Shire Council’s Mike Bodsworth and Golden Plains Shire Council’s Gavin Gamble embarked on the Citroën Army’s Great Ocean Road Gran Fondo on Sunday, September 10.
Cr Gamble said the deputy mayors competed in the 122km race, which started at 7.30am in Lorne, to raise awareness for a cycling safety organisation and that it was a challenging ride.
“Supporting the Amy Gillett Foundation is supporting an effective advocacy and educational group to help prevent rider injuries and fatalities,” he said.
“You have to train for a ride like this and prepare well, which for me is part of the enjoyment and benefit as it gives extra meaning to my training rides and even ‘utility cycling’.”
Cr Gamble said the two deputy mayors had become friends through their councillor roles and were both “keen cyclists” who advocated for cycling and transport infrastructure improvements.
“As we were both entering the Citroen Great Ocean Road Amy’s Grand Fondo, we agreed to ‘ham it up’ a bit with a faux race ‘battle’,” he said.
“It was great riding the Gran Fondo with a cycling buddy and chatting about the ride, amazing environment, thrilling descents, and even local government issues.
Cr Bodsworth said the ride was more about cooperation than competition between the deputy mayors.
“I was happy to ride the event with Gavin as he’s a strong advocate for safe cycling and active transport and an experienced road racer, so I’ve picked up some handy tips,” he said.
“Riding a bike is a joyous thing and it’s great for physical and mental health, but also for the household budget, convenience and the environment.”
Cr Bodsworth said it was important for bikes and cars to be aware of each other on the road as safe cycling is “literally a matter of life and death”.
“Safety is absolutely central to cycling participation and unlocking the massive benefits that flow from high cycling participation,” he said.
“The Geelong region has a proud cycling history and hosts several world-class cycling events, yet everyday conditions for riders aren’t great and participation is pretty low.”
