Photo from the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend 2024, supported by Bicycle Queensland. Photo by Element Photo and Video Productions.
Bicycle Queensland has welcomed the Queensland Government’s commitment of $3.5 million to upgrade four regional rail trails, saying the investment will help grow bike tourism, improve community access, and support regional economies.
“Bicycle Queensland is delighted with the State Government’s announcement of $3.5 million in funding for regional rail trails,” said BQ CEO Professor Matt Burke. “The ‘cycling economy’ is transforming many regions in Australia and it’s great to see Queensland building up and planning more rail trail improvements.”
The new funding will deliver upgrades across four key projects:
Pioneer Valley Rail Trail will receive $75,000.
Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail will receive $1.6 million.
Bundaberg to Gin Gin Rail Trail will receive $147,000.
Brisbane Valley Rail Trail will receive $1.6 million.
These investments are designed to improve safety, accessibility, and the rider experience, while also strengthening Queensland’s regional tourism offering as part of the Destination 2045 strategy.
Bicycle Queensland believes the best rail trail is an open rail trail, and recently partnered with the Department of Transport and Main Roads to deliver a Rail Trail Toolkit. The toolkit provides practical guidance for community groups looking to start or expand rail trail projects, helping to move a feasibility project to something that can be planned, built and promoted. BQ believes that the toolkit can assist more parts of Queensland being able to enjoy the social, environmental, and economic benefits that rail trails deliver. The recent announcement of funding for regional rail trails is a great sign that there is state government support for the same goals.
With thousands of people riding Queensland’s rail trails each year, from day trippers to multi-day tourists, the latest funding announcement is an important step in ensuring Queensland has national and even globally significant riding infrastructure that not only drives a tourism economy, but provides social and health benefits for local communities as well.
Bicycle Queensland is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Matt Burke as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Following a rigorous recruitment process in which 140 applications were received, the Board has selected Professor Burke for his passionate commitment to bike riding and active transport and his deep and widely recognised expertise in the field.
Chair Rachel Nolan described Matt as “one of us, someone who has a genuine commitment to riding and to seeing bikes and active transport and bikes as a vehicle for shaping cities and towns across Queensland.”
“At BQ, we believe that people are happier and healthier, transport is cheaper and more sustainable and community amenity is massively improved when bike riding becomes a mainstream form of transport.
“That change is happening in the great cities of the world but we have only glimpses of it here. With the backing of our 12,000 passionate members, it’s the change we want to see for Queensland. We believe that Matt, as the leader of a great team, can help make that happen.
Professor Burke is recognised as one of Australia’s leading voices for active transport and city-shaping, and is deeply committed to advancing the benefits of bike and scooter riding to create healthier, more connected communities. A rider himself, he brings both personal and professional insight into the challenges and opportunities facing Queenslanders on two wheels.
With the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games on the horizon, Bicycle Queensland identified the need for an influential leader to ensure the Games’ investment leaves a lasting legacy in transport, recreation, and sustainability for the state.
Professor Burke has a longstanding connection with Bicycle Queensland, having first engaged with the organisation while completing his PhD in Brisbane.
“Leading Bicycle Queensland is my dream job,” Professor Burke said. “I’ve been a sustainable transport campaigner since I was a teenager. I’ve been a bicycle bureaucrat and then a transport educator and researcher. But by leading BQ I hope we can really generate change across Queensland. We should have a genuine state cycle network by now. We don’t. There are still no firm commitments to improving cycling networks for the 2032 Games. We are behind other states on rail trails and regional cycle tourism. Expect a serious campaign on this front.”
Bicycle Queensland looks forward to Professor Burke leading the organisation to strengthen advocacy for safe, connected, and sustainable transport options for all Queenslanders.
On July 22, Bicycle Queensland joined Queensland Walks in presenting to the Queensland Parliamentary Inquiry into E-Mobility, alongside representatives from RACQ, QFES, QUT’s Centre for Future Mobility, Dr Richard Buning from UQ, Lime, Neuron and Foucoult Dynamics.
The session highlighted both the promise and the pressure of the e-mobility boom, especially in urban areas. Key concerns from those who presented ranged from the safety of privately imported and modified devices, to rider education, infrastructure gaps, and the need for clear and enforceable regulations.
BQ’s submission called for:
Increased investment in active transport, especially separated infrastructure
Mode share targets to guide planning and transport policy – aiming for 10% of trips via active transport (walking or riding)
Investment in infrastructure to match the mode share goals – lifting from the current funding of under 1% of total transport funding
A stronger focus on the desirability and safety of walking and cycling, especially as urban congestion grows
A reduction of speed limits on local streets to 40km/h to protect vulnerable road users
Match import and sales regulations for e-mobility devices to the legislated standards, and run a professional public education campaign to support that
BQ’s Director of Advocacy Andrew Demack pointed out that the need for separated infrastructure for all riders was essential. But clarification is required around what a shared path is, and what a bike path is. Currently the differences and therefore the e-mobility speed limits for the different paths, is not signed. This has lead to confusion for many users.
Queensland Walks was clear on their message, that the rise in e-mobility must not come at the cost of walking and riding. “Footpaths are for walking,” Queensland Walks President Greg Vann reminded the inquiry, urging dedicated infrastructure for all micro-mobility users to avoid conflict and confusion.
Other presenters shared concerns about non-compliant devices, particularly e-scooters capable of exceeding 25km/h, which RACQ identified as unregistered mopeds. Both RACQ and QFES supported crackdowns on illegal imports especially around unregistered e-motor bikes that are frequently sold as e-bikes. They have called for stronger battery safety standards, and emphasised the need to educate both riders and parents about what the rules are.
Commercial hire operators Lime and Neuron along with manufacturer Foucoult Dynamics presented their safety records and called for better infrastructure and clearer parking policies, while academic experts from QUT and UQ reinforced that improved infrastructure – not stricter rules – has the biggest impact on compliance and safety.
BQ Interim CEO Liana Heath reminded the inquiry that active transport delivers connectivity, access, equity, and health benefits across the community – values at the heart of the Brisbane 2032 legacy that the Queensland Government is committed on delivering.
Where to from here?
The inquiry is ongoing, with more presentations being made on both the Gold Coast and Sunshine Coast. Bicycle Queensland believes that there is already a need for immediate action from the Queensland State Government in three key areas:
Infrastructure: the lack of specific infrastructure for bikes and e-scooters was a common theme, with all presenters highlighting that the lack of purpose-made infrastructure was one of the leading issues for injuries. Additionally, forcing e-mobility devices and bikes onto footpaths has reduced confidence in walking – which is the main mode of transport for everyone. Proper investment in separated paths is an immediate requirement, with transport funding to match a mode shift goal.
Illegal imports: BQ and RACQ pointed out, many of the e-devices (both illegal e-bikes and some privately owned scooters) are illegal, unregistered motor vehicles. Their import and sale in Queensland must be blocked. This is an action that Fair Trading can take for Queensland with immediate effect, drastically reducing the sale and use of illegal vehicles that are headlining negative press on the e-mobility movement and creating over-representation in hospital admissions.
Education and enforcement: Queensland has some very thorough rules in place around e-mobility use including who can use what devices and where, and limits for assistance from the electric motors. Beyond illegal imports, education needs immediate action. The Queensland Government need to invest in a thorough, professional public education campaign to inform riders and parents about the limits on devices and their use. And then they need to enforce it.
BQ Chair, Rachel Nolan urged caution regarding over regulation, emphasising the need to focus on enforcing current laws and public education, before crackdowns, “We caution the Government to use current levers and education before mandating new rules. We want to promote riding and e-mobility, not introduce further obstacles or complexity”.
As Queensland’s voice for bike and scooter riders, BQ will continue to advocate for safe streets, smarter policy, and sustainable solutions that support both existing riders and the growing diversity of people using e-mobility to move around.
Bicycle Queensland (BQ) has made a strong case to the Queensland Parliamentary Inquiry into e-mobility, urging the State Government to embrace the opportunities of e-mobility while putting in place the essential infrastructure, regulation and education to ensure safety and equity for all road users.
Describing the e-mobility revolution as a positive and permanent shift, BQ emphasised the potential for e-bikes and e-scooters to deliver cleaner, healthier, and more accessible transport options — if managed with clear policy, proper planning and strong enforcement.
BQ’s submission calls on the Government to take decisive action in three priority areas:
Build long-promised infrastructure such as separated bike lanes and safe paths to keep riders away from vehicles and pedestrians.
Enforce existing laws which are allowing throttle e-bikes to be sold, despite them being illegal to use in Queensland.
Coordinate nationally to avoid a fragmented patchwork of rules across state borders.
“We encourage the Government to facilitate the growing interest in e-mobility through a properly funded active transport network” said BQ Interim CEO Liana Heath. “To improve safety concerns for riders and the public, we need to ensure current laws and rules are enforced, rather than introducing further complexity and obstacles to safe riding,” said Heath.
The BQ submission sets out four recommendations exactly how that can be done. BQ welcomes the inquiry and looks forward to contributing to more safe, active transport for everyone.
1. Fund and prioritise active transport
Reinstate mode share targets in transport planning
Lift active transport funding from under 1% to 10% annually by 2032
Reduce local road speed limits from 50km/h to 40km/h
Complete the Principal Cycle Network Plan by 2032
Develop Ride Safely to School strategies including bike lanes and bike tracks to new schools
Enforce a zero-tolerance approach to aggressive behaviour towards riders and e-scooter users
2. Ensure only safe, compliant devices are imported and sold
Enforce Australian safety standards
Restrict import and sale of non-compliant e-bikes and scooters
Govern or remove speed/throttle functions on illegal devices already sold
3. Launch a statewide public education campaign
Educate the public on what devices are legal and where they can be used
Promote rider training and safety awareness
4. Collaborate nationally on battery and safety standards
Implement national battery safety and charging standards
Coordinate legislation across states for clarity and consistency nationally
BQ welcomes the Parliamentary Inquiry and looks forward to working with the State to ensure safe and active transport for all Queenslanders.
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.”
Alton Twine discussed the benefits of Tricycles with TQ’s stakeholders ahead of today’s announcement.
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!
Photo from the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend 2024, supported by Bicycle Queensland. Photo by Element Photo and Video Productions.
Bicycle Queensland are set to host a thrilling line-up of riding events in 2025, catering to riders of all abilities, from families to seasoned riders alike. The 2025 calendar promises a diverse range of experiences, from scenic, leisurely rides to challenging gravel trails, all designed to foster a sense of community, adventure, and active lifestyles across Queensland.
Event Summary:
Park Pedal & Scoot Family Events: February – June 2025, Minnippi Parklands
Weekend in Wondai: April 25-27, 2025
Her Ride Sunshine Coast: Starting May 25, 2025
Y2W (Brisbane Valley Rail Trail): July 4-6, 2025
Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend: October 3-6, 2025
Park Pedal & Scoot Family Events: February to June 2025
Kicking off the year, Bicycle Queensland presents a series of six Park Pedal and Scoot events at Minnippi Parklands, running from February 2 to June 29. These events are designed with families in mind, offering a fun and supportive environment for bike and scooter riders of all ages.
Whether you’re introducing your kids to riding or enjoying a leisurely ride through picturesque parklands, Park Pedal and Scoot events provide an opportunity for everyone to get on their bikes, socialise, and enjoy the outdoors. You can expect a range of activities and support, with a focus on creating lasting memories and promoting active lifestyles.
From April 25-27, 2025, the Weekend in Wondai promises to be an unforgettable 3-day riding experience. Set against the backdrop of the charming South Burnett region, this event celebrates both the spirit of ANZAC Day and the joys of bike riding. Combining family-friendly rides with more challenging routes for experienced riders, participants will explore scenic attractions, local history, and the natural beauty of the area on and around the South Burnett Rail Trail.
Event entry includes all catering, ride guides, camping, amenities and evening entertainment. The Weekend in Wondai will be an ideal getaway for riding enthusiasts of all levels, ready to ride the gravel roads and rail trails in the South Burnett region.
Her Ride Sunshine Coast: Empowering Women Cyclists
Starting on May 25, 2025, Her Ride Sunshine Coast will offer a series of nine sessions aimed at building cycling skills, safety, and social interactions for women who ride. The sessions are run on Wednesday and Sunday mornings.
These sessions are designed to empower women cyclists by offering a supportive and inclusive environment where participants can improve their confidence, learn valuable skills, and connect with other women who share a passion for cycling. The program focuses on everything from bike handling to group riding techniques, with a strong emphasis on fun and camaraderie.
From July 4-6, 2025, Y2W will take participants on a 3-day, point-to-point adventure along the Brisbane Valley Rail Trail. This fully catered and supported event offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Queensland’s most scenic gravel riding routes, starting in Yarraman and finishing in Wulkuraka.
Descending the range to Linville on the BVRT
Riders will pass through charming towns, enjoy spectacular rural landscapes, and experience the thrill of long-distance gravel riding. Overnight stays in Linville and Esk will host evening entertainment, with equipped camp villages providing well-deserved rest after each day’s adventure. This event is a must for gravel enthusiasts and gravel-curious riders alike.
The Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend is back in 2025, moving to Mundubbera for October 3-6, 2025. The event offers a 4-day riding experience along parts of the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail and other surrounding areas. Participants will enjoy a mix of diverse rides, from relaxed routes to more challenging adventure trails, all set in the historically rich and visually stunning landscape of the region.
Photo from the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend 2024, supported by Bicycle Queensland. Photo by Element Photo and Video Productions.
With plenty of opportunities to explore the local sights, history, and wildlife, this event promises to be a memorable ride for all involved. The diverse terrain, full-service campsites, evening entertainment and catering makes this an event that riders won’t want to miss.
With events that cater to families, women, and seasoned cyclists, Bicycle Queensland’s 2025 event calendar offers something for everyone.
‘Bicycle Queensland has a long history of delivering great value, fun events throughout Queensland, and I’m proud that we are delivering such an extensive calendar for 2025,’ said Alton Twine, CEO of Bicycle Queensland. ‘The Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail event in May 2024 was our first multi-day event in years, and the response was really positive. So while we’ll be going back to Central Queensland in 2025, we are also expanding our events to include more for young families and gravel riders alike.’
‘This event line up is an important step for Bicycle Queensland, and it is a precursor to bringing more great events to many regions of Queensland in the coming years.’
Whether you’re looking for a leisurely weekend getaway or an epic multi-day gravel ride, these events provide the perfect mix of adventure, community, and outdoor exploration. Get ready to saddle up and enjoy the best of Queensland cycling in 2025!
Park Pedal and Scoot, Weekend in Wondai, Her Ride and the Boyne Burnett Inland Rail Trail Weekend are all made possible thanks to support from the Queensland Government.
The Sono Lumo lights festival at Star Casino is causing an issue for bike and scooter riders who use the Bicentennial Bikeway. The event organisers had required that riders must dismount from 4-11pm to travel through the Festival area at Queen’s Wharf.
Bicycle Queensland CEO Alton Twine said: “It is unacceptable to require bike riders to dismount on their commute home on Brisbane’s busiest bikeway. The timing applied to date is simply too restrictive. We’ve heard from plenty of members who are having to find other routes to bypass this event.”
There has been also significant protest about this blockage from Brisbane CBD BUG and Space4Cycling.
BQ had earlier spoken to Destination Brisbane Consortium before the festival began, and had offered a solution that would enable commuters to continue to ride through the space (Queen’s Wharf Plaza) which bisects the Bicentennial Bikeway at the new casino, until the end of the evening peak.
Today BQ spoke with organisers of the event and let them know of the concerns of the cycling community, asking for a push-back on the timing that will at least allow for the evening commute to occur without interruption. Star Casino have agreed to not enforce the dismount until it is necessary for safety reasons, and have asked all bike riders to please ride slowly through the event zone. BQ’s understanding is that the requirement to dismount will now be after the evening peak. We remain concerned about this situation and will continue to monitor it until we have an outcome that allows people using this space for active transport to do so safely and conveniently.
At the heart of the issue is the poor design choices made in this area when part of this transport corridor was surrendered to become part of this precinct. The State could have kept the bikeway separate to the multi-use area, but have compromised both the integrity of the corridor and the safety of all users by choosing not to. When an event like Sono Lumo comes along, this failure becomes all too evident.
BQ has also raised with Destination Brisbane Consortium our concern over the rumble strips placed on the bikeway near Queens Wharf Plaza without consultation with any bike groups. We believe that these strips are unnecessary, and a safety concern especially for e-scooter riders. This is an on-going concern and we have no news to report on that matter.
It is clear that Queens Wharf Plaza must have an uninterrupted path for bike riders that can be ridden safely and conveniently 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year. It is part of the Bicentennial Bikeway, the most popular bike route into Brisbane’s CBD.
On January 1 2025, Bicycle Queensland memberships will have a minor price increase. All annual memberships will have a total price increase of $4, and any monthly memberships will have an increase of 50c per month.
Annual Individual
$138
Annual Household of 2
$176
Annual Household of 3+
$202
Annual Concession
$103
Annual BQ Supporter
$53
Monthly Inidividual
$13.49
Monthly Household of 2
$16.49
Monthly Household of 3+
$18.49
Monthly Concession
$10.49
Monthly BQ Supporter
$5.50
We were pleased to hold pricing steady through 2024 but have needed to introduce this minor price increase in line with CPI. For more details, email bqinfo@bq.org.au or call our office on 07 3844 1144.
