Business, Community and Environment in the Yarra Ranges and surrounding suburbs
Did you know that in Belgrave there is a community service that is hugely valuable to the people struggling in the local area? Dandenong Ranges Emergency Relief Inc. provide a no judgement support care and aid network for those who are doing it tough. You never […]
Music and theatre are a huge part of the culture when living in the Dandenong Hills. Across Victoria theatre companies hold auditions for various music and theatrical productions each year, from pantomime and plays to large scale musicals. To be involved in these shows are […]
Cyclists in the Dandenong Ranges are a huge issue for local and visiting motorists. These lone riders and pelatons of cycle enthusiasts are all over the the hills ever single day, but most prolific on weekends and holidays. It can be infuriating to sit behind these Lycra clad racers as they take up most of the lane on a winding one lane road. It is simply impossible on many occasions to pass them safely, and as such frustrated drivers often take too many chances with the safety of the individuals on the bikes.
The problem is not a new one and the argument cemented in time. If motorists have to pay nearly $800 per car, per year to drive on Victorian roads, why don’t the serious cyclists who use the same roads have to pay? This in theory would provide them with safer paths and perhaps allow for particular bike lanes on many roads. In my experience people who indulge in this sport are not short of cash. They can generally afford to pay to use and improve the roads and infrastructure for their own use. It is an expensive hobby and in the hills a dangerous one.
I have seen many cyclist fly down some roads at a breath taking 60 to 70 kilometers per hour followed behind at a safe distance to allow for error. They are hugely vulnerable at this speed around cars and on these roads. You cant help but be thoroughly impressed by the fearlessness of some and their genuine commitment, discipline and obvious love of the sport. I personally try very hard to be patient , respectful and above all to allow a safe distance, and many cyclists are respectful in return, however it seems the majority are single minded in their quest for personal best times and to see the motorist as nothing but an annoyance who should always provide them with right of way.
Cars have the obvious advantage and drivers should really keep in mind what could happen if you hit someone on a bike. While cyclists should remember whose roads they are on and the tonnes of steel they share the space with.
The Dandenong Ranges and surrounding areas are prolific with different types of markets that operate each and every weekend, both Saturdays and Sundays somewhere in the hills, allowing local residents, day trippers and tourists access to a diverse array of art, entertainment, local produce and […]