Bike Khana wheelie fun for Echuca students

 

As the Ride2School program grows, we are committed to developing strong regional relationships with schools and communities. Ride2School\'s first 2009 regional trip took us to the famous paddle steamer town of Echuca to visit St Mary\'s, Echuca South, Echuca West, Echuca East and Echuca 208 Primary School.

Ride2School decided to visit Echuca after receiving an invitation from local school teacher Carmel O\'Connell. Carmel, a passionate rider herself was keen to get more students walking, riding, and scooting to school, and thought a visit from Ride2School would inspire more students to get active.  The trip was a learning opportunity for Echuca students and teachers as well as a chance for Ride2School to discover the current strategies Echuca schools use to promote active travel.

Covering over 40km on their bikes, Ride2School team members Mardi and Jacinta conducted 4 school assembly presentations, 1 bike khana, a radio interview, a newspaper photo, and a teachers professional development session. Recognising all members of the community have a key role to play in active travel the day involved working with schools as well as the Campaspe Council, Echuca Regional Health and local media.

Witnessing the enjoyment of students as they participated in the bike khana was one of the many highlights. Students unanimously voted their favourite activity \'bike limbo\' - an activity which tests students riding and balance skills was loved as it was a challenge and a new way to practice bike and scooter skills.

The day was a huge success with students learning more about the benefits of walking and riding and how they can become more active on their way to school.  A special thank you to students of Echuca for their enthusiasm, and at times much needed directions which ensured Mardi and Jacinta were always heading to the right destination.

 

 

Echuca Primary students getting active