Bicycle Queensland CEO Alton Twine and Director of Advocacy Andrew Demack check in for an update this April. With a federal election coming up, Alton covers what Bicycle Queensland and We Ride are asking for: federal funding for active transport (walking and riding). They also discuss high powered e-bikes, tariffs and more.
Month: April 2025
Categories
Advocacy Update: April 2025
In a dynamic discussion held recently with Roxanne De Beaux, CEO of Camcycle, along with several active transport advocacy groups, Bicycle Queensland joined voices across hemispheres to reflect on the progress and persistent challenges of building safer, more inclusive streets for everyone.
The conversation began with a bold comparison: Sydney — once dubbed “the city that hates bikes” — is transforming its reputation. The opening of a new cycleway in Ultimo on the very day of the discussion marked another step forward, with attendees applauding Fiona Campbell’s leadership as Manager of Cycling Strategy for City of Sydney.
Cambridge’s experience offers powerful lessons in how storytelling can shape public perception. Rather than speaking only to ‘cyclists,’ Camcycle tells stories that resonate more broadly — with parents, workers, students, and communities. This shift from reactive to proactive advocacy has helped them set a compelling vision, making tough but strategic decisions like scaling back the Reach Ride program in order to better allocate resources. Their growing network of influence — including allies in industry and government — is a testament to the power of alignment and clear priorities.
The discussion also touched on the shared growing pains of expanding cities. From Waterbeach in Cambridge to Bradfield in Sydney, and even Brisbane’s own suburban sprawl, the message was clear: advocacy must begin early in the planning process to ensure walking and cycling infrastructure is not an afterthought. With the 2032 Brisbane Olympics on the horizon, many noted this as an “all or nothing” opportunity to embed legacy-defining infrastructure for generations to come.
Another powerful thread was the importance of including the “unusual suspects” — voices often left out of traditional active transport narratives. Culturally and linguistically diverse women in western Sydney were highlighted as powerful advocates for safer walking and cycling, bringing fresh perspectives and a deeper understanding of the ‘why’ behind active transport.
As the conversation wrapped up, there was a shared moment of reflection. Advocacy can be tough. It takes stamina, resilience, and compassion. But it also comes with the deep reward of seeing streets transformed and lives changed.
“These conversations show us we’re not alone — our challenges are shared, but so are the solutions,” said Bicycle Queensland’s CEO Alton Twine after the discussion. “What we’ve seen in Cambridge and Sydney proves that change is not only possible, it’s already happening. It’s a reminder to keep pushing forward, because the streets we imagine are within reach.”
For Brisbane and Queensland’s regional centres, the message is clear: the road ahead may have bumps, but it’s one worth riding.
In a bold move to enhance rider safety and future-proof cycling infrastructure, Bicycle Queensland has announced a major rebrand to Tricycle Queensland. The shift from two wheels to three marks a new era in active transport advocacy, aligning with the organisation’s commitment to making cycling safer and more accessible for all.
CEO Alton Twine explained the decision, stating, “We’ve always been about championing safe and sustainable transport. Moving to three wheels instead of two is a natural evolution in our work. With greater stability and enhanced rider confidence, tricycles are the future of cycling in Queensland.”
The transition comes as part of a broader initiative to update Queensland’s cycling infrastructure ahead of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games. Under the new strategy, existing bike lanes and pathways will be widened to accommodate the increased width of tricycles, ensuring a smooth transition for riders making the switch.
Andrew Demack, Tricycle Queensland’s Director of Advocacy, reassured members that traditional bicycles will still have a place in the organisation’s mission. “We want to make it clear: we still love bicycles, but as we always say—two wheels good, three wheels better. This change is about expanding possibilities, not limiting them.”
As part of the rebrand, Tricycle Queensland will introduce a new fleet of demonstration tricycles, host ‘Try a Trike’ days across the state, and launch a campaign to educate riders on the benefits of a more stable, three-wheeled future. You may not love the cornering, but you’ll love the straight line stability!
While some riders may be sceptical about the shift, Tricycle Queensland is confident that the change will lead to a safer and more inclusive riding experience for all Queenslanders.
For more information, visit Tricycle Queensland’s website—or better yet, take a tricycle for a spin and see the difference for yourself!