A remote Western Australian town has found a simple yet powerful solution to get kids to school - a community day to repair and renew old bikes.
The Shire of Meekatharra, in partnership with Malya Mayu and other community organisations, recently hosted a community bike build & ride event that attracted around 130 locals.
The local youth centre workshop buzzed with activity as volunteers worked alongside young people to pump tyres, tighten chains, decorate frames and get bikes road-ready. Once done, kids and parents proudly rode to the local oval — laughter carrying across the flats as they zoomed around on their freshly fixed wheels.
Meekatharra — a Yamatji word meaning "place of little water" — sits in WA's Mid West region and has a population of around 850, nearly half of whom are Indigenous.
Community consultant Timika King said the local school's bike storage area went from empty to overflowing overnight, with more kids than ever riding to and attending school.
Ms King said one of the project's goals was to make Meekatharra a better place to live. She said there had been a visible increase in students making their own way to school, and added that organisers recognise that cycling promotes physical health, reduces stress, builds resilience, and strengthens social bonds.
The refurbished bikes were gifted to young people and families in need, ensuring the day's impact continued beyond the working bee.
Young people worked alongside adults to learn practical repair skills, problem-solve, support one another and take pride in what they achieved.
Special recognition went to Petina Gilla, who received a brand-new bike — generously sponsored by Yulella Aboriginal Corporation — for her outstanding participation throughout the event.
The refurbished bikes were gifted to young people and families in need, with all bicycles donated by Bikes for Humanity WA, and deliveries coordinated by Westgold Resources from Perth and Communities of Focus from Geraldton.
Local Youth Focus service manager Paulette Anderson said as a result of the community event, more young people were heading to school and getting fresh air thanks to the bikes.
“It's a hell of a lot easier to ride a bike in 45-degree heat than it is to walk,” she laughed.