Bendigo Advertiser: Pedal power honours fallen cyclists

A mass of cyclists took to Bendigo’s streets on Saturday to highlight the need to share the road and honour those who have died in traffic accidents. As part of the world-wide Ride of Silence event, a group of about 200 cyclists rode from the Epsom Sports Ground to High Street, Bendigo. The event is held in more than 250 cities across the world, and this is the second year a ride has been organised in Bendigo. Event organiser Eddie Barkla said its primary purpose was to raise awareness of road safety and shared road use. “It’s to reflect and remember people who have been killed or seriously injured as a result of a road accident,” he said. ”

The ride is so important because more people are going to choose cycling. “It’s a massive part of Bendigo’s culture.” Cycling enthusiasts of a variety of ages took part in the silent procession. “I’d say anything from (people aged in their) 70s down to about 15,” Mr Barkla said. “It crosses all boundaries and barriers.” Bendigo Bicycle Users Group and the Bendigo Cycling Club were among the riders who took part in the event.