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.
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.
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.
Bicycle Queensland welcomes today’s announcement of the results of the Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games 100 Day Review.
The announcement of the 63,000 seat major venue at Victoria Park gives real impetus to the creation of a wide, well-let and signposted walking and cycling link from the Brisbane CBD to this main stadium. This important connection also needs to link to the Valley, and the announcement of a new $650M aquatic centre at the existing Centenary Pool at Spring Hill in close proximity to the main venue reinforces the need for this vital link that includes both venues.
The current tired, old, narrow and inadequate path that goes behind the Grammar schools towards Victoria Park has needed significant upgrading for some time now, and the Games should see the creation of a world-class active travel corridor through this space and beyond into the Valley, creating a much-needed connection as a lasting legacy.
The 100 Day Review lists 9 critical transport programs to implement, including active travel and accessibility aligned to the Games Master Plan, acknowledging the need for more sustainable transport options and also acknowledging that existing transport infrastructure is insufficient to meet the Games transport requirements.
Given the regional distribution of Games venues across south-east Queensland and beyond, it is not surprising there is a heavy emphasis in the report’s critical transport program on public transport improvements. Nevertheless there are three important elements noted for improving active travel:
1. Expand inner-city and venue active travel corridors 2. Illuminate and shade inner city paths 3. Create bike and micromobility venue parking
Encouragingly, the report notes “A program of active travel infrastructure and facility upgrades needs to be co-ordinated, planned and prioritised across Queensland to ensure all venues, transit hubs and live sites can be adequately serviced by active travel needs”. This is great to hear.
BQ believes that the planned inner-city and venue expansion of active transport corridors should be complemented by an investment program across government of improved cross-city corridors that link to these essential new Games corridors, providing the opportunity for the public to ride all the way from home or hotel to venues. The rise of e-mobility supports this with longer journeys being easily undertaken, and the very welcome announcement of bike and micromobility parking at venues will be a key enabler for these trips.
“It is encouraging to hear that the review has listened to feedback,” said Bicycle Queensland CEO Alton Twine “but now the real work begins to plan and active the critical infrastructure to enable a successful Games and legacy”.
BQ looks forward to working with the Queensland Government on shaping the outcomes of this 100 Day Review to build great infrastructure for a successful 2032 Games and for the future of all Queenslanders.
Lots has been going on in 2025 so far, including Bicycle Queensland’s first meeting with both the Regional Bicycle User Groups, and the Brisbane Metropolitan area Bicycle User Groups.
As part of the Queensland Government’s Brisbane 2032 Olympic and Paralympic Games 100 Day Review, Bicycle Queensland has made a submission with the support of We Ride and AusCycling.
Bicycle Queensland have outlined the primary goal of improved connectivity and integration for active transport as a top priority outcome from the Games, creating a sustainable transport legacy.
The benefits of an improved active transport system are many. Riding and walking are ideal for the mass movement of people for the Games and any other major event, providing a carbon-neutral, accessible, healthy and affordable means of transport. It also requires less infrastructure investment and drives economic growth.
Bicycle Queensland proposes a target of 90% of all spectator trips to be made by public or active transport, with a legacy of 20% of all journeys in Brisbane to be made by active transport post-Games.
To achieve this, Bicycle Queensland recommends developing Smart Spines: tree-lined, digitally enabled active transport corridors that link event venues, accommodation and key city landmarks. Event venues must be active and public transport friendly, with ample parking for bikes or scooters and increased availability of hire bikes and scooters during the Games. We encourage the completion of missing links in the active transport network, and the funding of existing Principal Cycle Network Plans for improved access in areas of Regional Queensland.
‘The Games present a unique opportunity for Queensland to take our active transport network to a global standard,’ said Alton Twine, CEO of Bicycle Queensland. ‘Just last year, Paris showed us what is possible when it comes to effecting change of modality not just in the Games, but as a legacy. Queensland has a lot of the planning in place, and we need to seize this opportunity to deliver a great outcome for the Games, and for Queenslanders.’
Bicycle Queensland has started a new partnership with See.Sense, a cycling technology and data company, aimed at enhancing riding safety across the state. This collaboration combines high quality lights with the ability to report incidents and conditions on your bike routes.
See.Sense’s bike lights are equipped with advanced sensors and connectivity features, designed to help riders stay visible and safe in all conditions. The lights use patented technology to react to their environment, flashing brighter and faster at riskier moments. See.Sense lights are also daylight visible and help riders stay seen by motorists, pedestrians, and other riders whether riding day or night.
But what sets these lights apart is their ability to connect with the See.Sense app, enabling riders to report incidents or hazards they encounter on their rides, as well as access connected features like crash and theft alerts and personal stats. The app provides a platform for riders to make reports about any issues encountered on their ride such as a close pass, potholes, obstruction, or other factors that may impact safety.
In time, this feedback will be shown on a data dashboard on the BQ website and will contribute to better-informed advocacy and decision-making when it comes to improving cycling infrastructure, offering a unique opportunity for riders to directly shape their environment. Aggregated and depersonalised data insights will also be accessible to other partners such as TMR and local councils to help improve conditions for cycling. The data sharing is private, and riders can choose whether or not to opt in. Even if you don’t own See.Sense lights, you can use the See.Sense app to report any issues and record your rides.
This partnership is a natural progression for Bicycle Queensland. By collaborating with See.Sense, BQ is taking a proactive role in improving cycling safety through innovation and technology and using our member base to gain input as to conditions faced by people riding, and what facilities need maintenance. It offers a chance for riders to be individual advocates for infrastructure in their local area.
“Safety is at the heart of everything we do,” said Bicycle Queensland CEO, Alton Twine. “By working with See.Sense, we’re not only providing our members with great pricing fora practical tool to improve their safety, but we’re also contributing to a larger effort to gather data that can help shape safer roads and cycling infrastructure for everyone. This partnership will make riding more secure, connected, and enjoyable.”
“At See.Sense we want to enable more people to cycle more often. Through this partnership with BQ, we’re excited to provide insights that will shape safer, smarter roads for everyone. Together, we can create a better cycling experience for Queensland”, says See.Sense CEO, Philip McAleese.
As part of the partnership, BQ members will receive an exclusive 30% discount on See.Sense’s innovative range of smart bike lights, designed to enhance visibility, provide incident reporting, and tailor lighting output to suit varying conditions. These lights are not just about brightening the road ahead and being visible – they are part of a larger effort to make riding safer and smarter. Log in to the BQ Portal to access the discount code.
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.
