Released 08/12/2024
Today is Empowering All Abilities Day and to celebrate this important day, a new accessible Road Safety Learn to Ride bike track and bike storage shed was opened at the Evatt Community Playground.
Minister for Sport and Recreation, Yvette Berry was joined by Abilities Unlimited Australia (AUA), Paralympians Vanessa Low, Scott Reardon, Michael Milton, Cameron Crombie and Sue Powell, a number of sporting organisations, therapy providers, and community and disability organisations to cut the ribbon on the new community facility.
An enthusiastic group of young bike riders were excited to try out the new facility – which is adjacent to Evatt Primary School - for the first time.
The ACT Government’s 2024 Community Sport Facilities Program provided $425,000 in funding to Abilities Unlimited Australia (AUA) for the project.
The new path will make learning to ride safer for children participating in the AUA’s Cyclabilities program. The Cyclabilities program is an inclusive cycling initiative for children of all abilities that teaches cycling skills and also fosters social, emotional and physical development.
Cyclabilities is held on Saturday mornings, with over 100 participants and the new facility will allow participation to grow. When not in use by Cyclabilities, the facility is a great place for the local community to enjoy.
“I’m thrilled to be here on Empowering All Abilities Day to formally open this important new community facility. It provides a safe space to learn and develop bike skills and the cycling do’s and don’ts that exist beyond this community facility,” Minister for Sport and Recreation Yvette Berry said.
“The facility will allow inclusive instruction for young bike riders of all abilities to gain essential road safety awareness.
“An active, healthy lifestyle is a basic right for all children, and the ability to ride, and ride safely is like a passport to childhood. Supporting organisations like Abilities Unlimited Australia who provide services for children make that possible."
Abilities Unlimited Australia provides tailored programs for children with disabilities, promoting inclusion and empowering every child to discover their potential through sports.
Their 1:1 and small group sports programs are designed to meet the unique needs and abilities of each child.
Quote attributable to Fiona Jarvis, Co-Founder Abilities Unlimited Australia:
“Abilities Unlimited Australia (AUA) extend heartfelt thanks to Minister Yvette Berry and the ACT Government, Sport and Recreation, for making the All-Abilities Bike Precinct a reality.
"This inclusive facility is a vital gift to our community, offering children of all abilities a safe space to learn cycling, develop essential road safety skills, and build confidence.
“Children with disabilities face heightened risks and barriers to participation. This precinct breaks those barriers, fostering independence, inclusion, and community connection. Thank you for your leadership in creating a space where every child can thrive.”
- Statement ends -
Yvette Berry, MLA | Media Releases