Mobilise TI is a grassroots community initiative to improve access to easy, affordable and enjoyable transport options for everyone that lives, works or plays in the Zenadth Kes / Torres Strait.
Bikes are a central element of this initiative through the Ride Revolution Project - where we have secured funding to bring 100 new bicycles to the region.
why bikes?
Bikes, especially family-friendly ones, are:
- free (or incredibly cheap) to run (especially when compared with private cars or taxis);
- enable us (and/or our children) to move quickly and efficiently;
- easy to maintain and repair;
- compact to park and store;
- give us an opportunity for low impact exercise and time outdoors;
- are quiet and free from pollution
- reduce traffic and parking issues;
- can be a fun and enjoyable way to move;
- offer independence and flexibility;
- promote a sense of community;
- have a lower carbon footprint;
- use the existing paths/roads;
- can be customised to fit personal or family needs e.g. seating multiple children/infants, transport elders or those with a disability, carry cargo, etc.
- can be safely ridden by children, as an independent travel option.
I live on TI or surrounding inner islands, and do not have a bike but would like one...
1. complete this application and we will be in contact if we are donated a bike within the community that is suitable to you (or your family member) or let you know if we organise another bulk bike buy (both options are subject to availability and priority criteria).
2. when you next travel to the mainland, plan to bring a bike back in a box on your return flight. This should be free if the box is your only checked item, or around $65 if it is a second item. Contact Qantas first to confirm. We recommend purchasing a bicycle from a bike shop, such as Giant Cairns. You can contact the manager Nathan on (07) 4041 1700 for help with selecting the best bike for your needs and preparing it for the return journey. Mention Mobilise TI to get the best deal and assistance.
We do not recommend buying a bicycle from Kmart, Target, Big W or any other big box store. Even if you are purchasing a child's bike, and think it will only be used for a short time - remember better quality bikes can be passed on to other children and families, whereas lower quality ones will often be unrepairable after the first year (or less!).
