Local

Wind in their hair: Cycling Without Age returns to Junee

Published

17 hours ago

September 30, 2026

THERE were plenty of smiles in Junee this week as Cycling Without Age returned to town, giving local aged care residents the chance to enjoy the sunshine, fresh air and a little taste of freedom on wheels.

Residents at the Junee Multi-Purpose Service took to the streets aboard specially designed electric-assist trishaws on Tuesday morning, piloted by trained volunteers from Cycling Without Age’s Wagga chapter.

It was the not-for-profit organisation’s third visit to Junee since it was first engaged by the Multi-Purpose Service in late 2025.

Residents travelled along Broadway’s Federation Pathway and around Burns Park before continuing along the footpath behind John Potts Drive and through the Junee Wetlands.

For many, the outing offered far more than a bike ride, providing a chance to revisit familiar places, relive treasured memories and share conversations with volunteers, staff, family and friends while enjoying the simple pleasure of being outdoors and feeling the wind in their hair.

The Junee Bulletin was invited along to capture the morning, where children rode alongside their great-grandparents and husbands and wives enjoyed a spin together.

Junee Allied Health Lifestyle and Leisure Coordinator Amy Davies-Mack said the visit was warmly welcomed by residents and staff.

“This wonderful initiative gives our residents the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors, feel the freedom of being out in the community, seeing all the familiar buildings and landscapes and create meaningful connections with the volunteers,” she said.

“For many of our Residential aged care residents, it can bring back memories, promote wellbeing and provide a sense of joy, independence and belonging.

“It’s a beautiful way to ensure everyone can continue to experience the simple pleasure of getting out and about, regardless of age or mobility.”

The global Cycling Without Age movement began in Denmark in 2012 before making its way to Australia.

The Wagga chapter was established in early 2023 and has since become a familiar sight across the Riverina, visiting aged care homes, community groups and disability services throughout the region.

Volunteer pilots use the specially designed trishaws to take passengers on rides through their local communities, allowing people who may no longer be able to ride independently to experience the outdoors and feel the wind in their hair.

The initiative has since grown to over 45 chapters across Australia, powered by volunteers committed to helping older people and those living with disability remain connected to their communities.

Each electric-assist trishaw costs upwards of $20,000, with Cycling Without Age relying on volunteers and tax-deductible donations to continue providing rides.

Cycling Without Age Australia is always looking for more volunteers and pilots, with donations also helping the organisation bring the experience to more people.

You can support the organisation by donating here.