Pictured: Subiaco local Sheila Davies and Wandana resident, Suhaila “Sue” Sabiry setting off around the park.
Have you experienced the warm sunshine on your skin, the wind in your face and the beautiful scenery of Kings Park’s bushland? Today, 18 seniors and people with mobility issues got to experience just that.
To celebrate Mental Health Week and Bike Month, the City hosted a morning tea at Zamia Café this morning followed by free bike rides for seniors and those with mobility issues at Kings Park.
Cycling Without Age is a not-for-profit charity that provides a service connecting those no longer able to ride for themselves with their community and the outdoors by giving them free rides on trishaw ebikes, piloted by volunteer cyclists.
Standing under the shade of a beautiful gum tree City of Subiaco Community Development Officer for Safety and Wellbeing Rachel Gell spoke about the day’s events.
“The month of October is Bike Month, and this week is Mental Health Week and we’re here with Cycling Without Age to offer a beautiful experience to our residents who may not be able to experience this on their own.”
“This morning we brought the bus to Shenton Park Community Centre, Wandana flats and Subi Library to include those who want to come along and don’t have their own transport. Then we had a morning tea in the café here, so people can get together and relax while they wait for their turn on the bikes.”
The Subiaco and Wandana residents talk to the three volunteer pilots as they await their turn. They’re assisted onto the bench seats on the front of the bicycles and reminded to buckle up before they’re taken for a spin around the park.
“Each ride is about 20 minutes,” volunteer pilot Wal said. “It’s a great day for it – riding through the bush with all the birds out.
“I do this because I love seeing the change in people by the time they get off the bike.”
Subiaco local and City volunteer, Sheila Davies said she was lucky to get a ride this morning.
“I just came down here to help out this morning, a ride would be a bonus!” she said.
Sheila has been volunteering with the City of Subiaco’s Positive Ageing Program for 13 years.
“I’ve got such a good life myself; I like to give back.”
Next month, Sheila will celebrate her 90th birthday. She said since retirement and then losing her husband a few years ago, the City’s Positive Ageing Program has expanded her social life immensely.
“I’ve met so many wonderful people and made so many friends through this program.”
Wal helps Sheila and Sue onto the bike and Sue yells, “off to the airport please”, and everyone laughs.
The City of Subiaco has a dedicated
Senior Space to celebrate our senior residents and continue to keep them engaged in the community through fun activities and events like this.
For more information and future events, visit
the City’s website.