Pedal power: Celebrating World Bicycle Day in Aura
Aura residents are encouraged to play their part this World Bicycle Day by riding their bikes and enjoying the extensive network of veloways available in the “cycle city”.
World Bicycle Day, celebrated on 3 June, promotes cycling as a simple, affordable, and environmentally friendly mode of transportation. The day aims to raise awareness about the benefits of cycling for health, sustainability, and community wellbeing, encouraging more people to incorporate bike riding into their daily lives.
Aura residents enjoy the abundance of veloways and pedestrian walkways throughout the community
It is estimated that currently, more than half (55 per cent) of adults in Australia don’t meet the physical activity guidelines to maintain their health.1 By swapping the car, train or bus for a bike or opting to go on foot, residents can get their recommended daily exercise without having to spend extra time or money at the gym or undertaking other activities.
Having dedicated paths for pedestrians and cyclists not only contributes to physical health but can also have profound positive effects on mental health, including stress reduction, improved mood, social interaction and connection with nature.
Did you know that due to the energising powers of being in nature, just 20 minutes outdoors can have the same pick-me-up effect as a cup of coffee?2 Aura’s extensive network of interconnected walkways and veloways provide a safe and easy route for bikes, scooters and pedestrians, making active transport more viable.
In exciting news, Aura has been selected as a pilot site for Sunshine Coast Council’s ThinkChange initiative “linking locals” aimed at creating a healthier, more connected and sustainable Sunshine Coast. This travel behaviour change program is an initiative aimed at assisting residents to find ways to reduce car usage. Potential benefits to communities include reduced traffic and congestion on roads, lower carbon emissions, improved health and wellbeing and more connected communities.
A survey of 150 Sunshine Coast households found that 93 per cent of all trips are by car, either as a driver or passenger, and only 4 per cent of all trips are undertaken by walking or cycling. 3
Charlotte Buckley, Stockland Community Development Manager said that Aura was designed with the aspiration to be an active city.
“So far, more than 109km of walking paths and cycling veloways have already been delivered of the 200km planned on completion, providing residents with easy access to parks, schools and community facilities,” said Ms Buckley.
“This key infrastructure encourages the community to be happier, healthier and more active.
“Walking and cycling are environmentally-friendly, low-cost and healthy ways to spend time outdoors, enjoy an active lifestyle and explore all that Aura has to offer.
“We are delighted to be selected as a pilot site for the ThinkChange program and know that our Aura residents will embrace being part of this initiative.
“We’ve partnered with the ThinkChange team to introduce a unique valet service at a number of our Aura community events, allowing residents to bring their bikes and scooters with the assurance that they will be safe and securely handled.
“Not only is it a free service, it’s also a great way for residents to reduce their carbon footprint too.
“We encourage all Aura residents to play their part and think a little differently by looking at alternative modes of transport for their daily commute and everyday transport.
“And with Baringa Bikes now open in the Aura Business Park, there’s never been a better time to start riding.”
Find out more about Aura’s network of veloways and walkways, parks and open green spaces here.
*Sources:
1 Australian Government, Department of Health and Aged Care
2 The Nature Conservancy Australia
3 Sunshine Coast Council: ThinkChange brochure