‘I love the thrill of flying (safely) down hills!’: Biketober champions share their tips for riding in western Sydney
Dr Conrad Moreira, Bronnie Anderson-Smith, Caroline Scott and Dr Ben Silberberg work at the Centre for Population Health in Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD) and all ride to work regularly.
During the month of October – or ‘Biketober’ – this group of cycling enthusiasts have an additional motivation to ride to work.
Biketober is a national bike challenge that runs during the entire month of October with prizes on offer for participants, encouraging people to ditch the car and ride a bike where possible.
From keeping fit to looking after mental health, each of these Biketober champions have shared their tips and advice for those looking to get involved.
“One of the reasons I got back on the bike was because it’s a fun way to get around the neighbourhood and to get some exercise while leaving the car at home. Sydney has some excellent cycle ways and I really enjoy exploring the city on my bike while feeling safe at the same time.”
Dr Conrad Moreira, Acting Director of Public Health
“Riding to work gives me physical and mental health benefits and I know I’m making a positive choice for the environment. Plus when I get I home, I can relax as my exercise for the day is done.”
Bronnie Anderson-Smith, Manager Strategy, Planning and Engagement
“Riding keeps me flexible, is good for my knees and I love the thrill of flying (safely!) down hills. Riding gives me a real sense of freedom.”
Caroline Scott, Clinical Nurse Consultant for the School Vaccination Program
“Riding helps me feel relaxed after a busy day at work.”
Dr Ben Silberberg, Public Health Registrar
Why is bike riding good for you?
Western Sydney Local Health District (WSLHD)’s Centre for Population Health encourages WSLHD staff and the wider community to be physically active every day and integrate this incidental exercise into your routine. This is called Active Travel.
Bike riding does not take a lot of skill and can be enjoyed by the young and the young at heart. It is good for both mental and physical health and can help protect against depression, anxiety, diabetes, arthritis, obesity, stroke, heart attack and some cancers.
Riding a bike is also good for our environment as there is no air or noise pollution produced from riding.
Get involved in Biketober!
Join in the fun and take part in Biketober – it’s free to register and be involved in Biketober.
The aim of the month is simple: to get more people riding bikes and taking advantage of the fantastic bike tracks in western Sydney. Why? Riding is good for the planet and good for you.
Anyone can get involved in Biketober – from absolute beginners and those who haven’t ridden in years, to regular bike riders. All you have to do is ride for at least 10 minutes and log your ride on the Biketober website. You can participate solo or get a group together for some friendly competition on the Biketober leaderboard. Whether you’re riding to work for to the local shops, it all counts!
There are fantastic prizes to be won! Some of the prizes include a $200 spa voucher, a brunch flight for two valued at over $500, family pass to Western Plains Zoo or organisation prizes like a morning tea with fruit and goodies delivered to your office.
Where to go riding
To discover local bike paths, shared paths and trails, visit your local Council website:
Or for locations throughout NSW, try Cycleway Finder.
Don’t forget your helmet!
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