June 29th: Charity Ride around Townsville – 30 km
Day 259
We joined more than three hundred local cyclists today for a charity ride in memory of Sue Bell, who was struck and killed by a motorist carrying an un-escorted wide load of 3.8 meters on a 3.4 meter road when he attempted to pass Sue Bell, killing her and injuring two other riders. This tragedy led to the implementation of laws requiring vehicles in Queensland to give cyclists as least 1 meter when the speed limit is 60 kph and 1.5 meters when the speed limit is higher.
Mick and Jen let us sleep in, but they woke up at 4am after what can only be described as a nap. They volunteered to put up road signs to make motorists aware of the cyclists. True to the cause of cycle advocacy, Mick and Jen have banned the use of their car for 2 weeks and must run all their chores by human power. Fortunately they have a large array of bikes to choose from, including old style recumbents, road bikes, a tandem, a cargo bike and several others.
We woke at around 6am and found our way to the start, where we joined Mick, Jen and their friend Ian. We were immediately impressed by the amount of riders in attendance once the ride began. Everywhere in the park along the waterfront cyclists on sleek modern road bikes clad in spandex streamed to the starting point. With Mick and Jen on their tandem, Ian on his homemade recumbent, and us on our trikes we were an eccentric crew.
Jen and Mick on their touring tandem
Ian on his D.I.Y. recumbent
Chased by the cops!
This was the first modern town that we had come across since leaving Darwin, 2,500 kms ago. We were impressed by the well planned city center with cafe’s, restaurants and a stunning ocean front promenade, as well as the natural layout, being nestled along the coast all lush and exuberant. Cher and I did take a moment to consider living here. Although we were here during the winter, when a cool day is in the 20’s Celsius, while in the summer is a good deal hotter and humid.