Bicycle Network’s successful Back on your Bike program is on the lookout for a new funder as the expiration of its latest Healthy Tasmania grant approaches.
The program, which focuses on getting adults riding again after years off the bike, has been running on consecutive grants since 2021 but it wasn’t refunded in the recent round.
Grants are a great way to get new programs off the ground but we face a funding black hole once those programs prove themselves.
Bicycle Network has made a submission to the current state government budget process, asking that Back on your Bike receive recurrent funding as it has consistently helped people to get riding again.
In a survey of participants over one year more than 90% said they felt more confident on a bike and thought the skills they learned were useful, and 100% said they would recommend the program to others.
Helping people to ride ticks a lot of boxes for government goals such as improved physical and mental health, reduced climate change emissions, reduced traffic congestion, road safety and easing cost of living pressures.
Still pedalling
The Healthy Tasmania grant expires at the end of this financial year but a generous donor has stepped in to help the program continue for three more months.
Bicycle Network is applying for new grants to keep the program running and looking for support from government, sponsors and philanthropists.
The program will be available for organisations and businesses to book sessions on a one-off basis as well as establishing ongoing relationships.
Sessions can be tailored to your needs. In the past four years we’ve helped older Tasmanians, new e-bike riders, new migrants, people with disabilities, community groups, employers and staff, and people wanting to ride for transport.
If you are interested in hearing more about Back on your Bike and getting involved in its future, drop us a line at tasoffice@bicyclenetwork.com.au