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Two Students Receive Bikes To Ride To School

The Nationals Member for Morwell Russell Northe presented bicycles and helmets to two Latrobe Special Development School students,

By Russell Northe - 10th September 2010 - Back to News

Amy Crous and Takoda Rothie, at a school assembly attended by students, staff, parents and friends today.

"It’s always a privilege to visit Latrobe Special Development School, and I am always made to feel very welcome. The students that attend the school are just wonderful and are blessed to have such great teachers and staff, and are fortunate to be educated in such a caring environment.

The lucky students received the bicycles as part of the State Government’s Go For Your Life Ride2School bicycle giveaway program which provides 1000 bikes to 500 schools across Victoria.

The winners are selected on a basis of leadership qualities and encouraging an active lifestyle, Mr Northe said.

Mr Northe said he found it alarming that far fewer children walk and cycle to school now than in the past. Research indicates that in the 1970s and 1980s some 80 per cent of students walked or rode their bikes to school.

In 2006, it was estimated that the number of students walking or cycling to school was closer to 20 per cent.

"It’s important that parents and teachers encourage students to walk, cycle or use other non-motorised forms of transport for the benefit to their health and the environment.

"Exercise also has the benefit of giving youth’s additional confidence and independence in moving around their neighbourhood, and becoming familiar with their surroundings.

The Ride2School program works with individual schools in assisting them to develop their own activities and provides support in encouraging students to ride or walk more often.

"Cycling is an enjoyable activity for all ages, whether it is a leisurely ride with the family, or a race in an elite cycling competition.

"The Latrobe Valley has some fantastic scenic locations for a bike ride, and groups such as the Traralgon and Morwell Peddlers (TRAMPS) provide a great way to socialise and exercise at the same time.

"I have been a long time advocate for the construction of a Morwell to Traralgon bike path, and also the completion of the Gippsland Plains Rail Trail. Projects such as these would add immensely to our region as a destination of choice for cyclists..

"I encourage everyone to get out there and enjoy the sights, and improve your health."

Media: Russell Northe 0408 22 55 23 / Julia Auciello 5133 9088

Source: www.gippsland.com

Published by: news@gippsland.com

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