Picture this: an 85-year-old woman who hasn’t felt the wind in her hair for years suddenly finds herself gliding along the Gold Coast waterfront, watching pelicans dive and feeling the sunshine on her face. She’s not driving, and she’s not walking—she’s riding in a specially designed trishaw, piloted by a volunteer who’s giving her the gift of freedom. This is exactly how cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors through a remarkable program that’s changing lives one pedal stroke at a time.
For many older Australians, mobility challenges mean missing out on simple pleasures like enjoying a ride through the park or feeling connected to their community. But thanks to Wayne Sticher and dozens of dedicated volunteers, that’s changing on the Gold Coast. The local Cycling Without Age chapter is proving that age and ability shouldn’t determine who gets to experience the joy of cycling.
Key Takeaways
- 🚴 Cycling Without Age offers completely free trishaw rides to Gold Coast seniors and people with disabilities, serving approximately 600 passengers monthly with zero cost to participants
- 👥 50 active volunteers operate the program at Paradise Point and Main Beach, making it 100% volunteer-powered with no paid staff
- 📅 Regular sessions run Tuesday, Thursday, and Friday mornings at Paradise Point Parklands (9:15 AM), plus Wednesday sessions at Main Beach, with additional monthly weekend rides
- 🏆 Award-winning program recognized with the 2023 Impact Award and 2024 Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year
- ♿ Wheelchair-accessible bikes ensure everyone can participate, regardless of mobility limitations
What Is Cycling Without Age and How Does It Work?
The Global Movement That Started in Denmark
Cycling Without Age began in 2012 when Ole Kassow, a Danish social entrepreneur, borrowed a trishaw and took a local nursing home resident for a ride through Copenhagen[1]. That simple act of kindness sparked a global movement. Ole noticed how the experience brought joy and connection to someone who had been confined indoors, and he realized this could help countless others.
The concept is beautifully simple: specially designed trishaw e-bikes allow volunteers to safely transport passengers who can no longer ride bikes independently. These aren’t ordinary bicycles—they’re purpose-built vehicles with comfortable seating, weather protection, and electric assist to make pedaling easier for pilots.
How Cycling Without Age Brings Freedom to Gold Coast Seniors Through Local Chapters
The Gold Coast chapter represents Australia’s commitment to this movement. Wayne Sticher didn’t just start another community group—he became Australia’s first accredited Cycling Without Age trainer and registered the Gold Coast as the country’s 21st chapter[2]. His vision transformed a Danish idea into a thriving Australian reality.
Today, the program operates with remarkable efficiency:
- Zero paid staff members keep overhead costs minimal
- Approximately 50 active volunteers donate their time and energy
- Completely free rides for all participants, removing financial barriers
- 600 passengers served monthly across Gold Coast locations
The numbers tell an impressive story, but they don’t capture the tears of joy, the reminiscing about past adventures, or the friendships formed between passengers and pilots.
The Gold Coast Chapter: A Community Success Story
Wayne Sticher’s Vision Becomes Reality
I’ve spoken with volunteers who remember when Wayne first introduced the concept to the Gold Coast community. Many were skeptical—would seniors really want to ride in trishaws? Would enough volunteers commit? Could they maintain safety standards?
Wayne answered those questions by leading through example. He didn’t just talk about the program; he trained volunteers, secured equipment, and personally piloted countless rides. His dedication paid off when the first trishaws rolled out in 2016, part of Australia’s initial introduction of these specialized vehicles[3].
The Gold Coast chapter has since become a model for others across Australia. With 46 member chapters now operating nationwide, the movement Wayne helped establish continues expanding[4].
Where and When You Can Experience the Freedom
Cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors through consistent, accessible scheduling:
| Location | Days | Times | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Paradise Point Parklands | Tuesday, Thursday, Friday | 9:15 AM start | Primary hub with most volunteers |
| Main Beach | Wednesday | 9:15 AM – 12:00 PM | Coastal route experience |
| Paradise Point | First Saturday monthly | Morning sessions | Weekend option for working families |
| Paradise Point | Third Sunday monthly | Morning sessions | Additional weekend access |
This scheduling ensures that seniors have multiple opportunities each week to participate, regardless of their personal calendars or family availability. The program takes a seasonal break from December 13, 2025 to January 12, 2026, allowing volunteers to recharge during the holiday period[5].
The Equipment That Makes Freedom Possible
The trishaw e-bikes are engineering marvels designed specifically for passenger comfort and safety. Each vehicle features:
- 🔋 Electric assist motors that help pilots navigate hills and longer distances
- 🪑 Comfortable passenger seating with proper back support
- 🛡️ Safety harnesses and seatbelts for secure riding
- ☂️ Weather protection canopies for sun and rain
- 🧣 Cozy blankets provided for passenger comfort
But the real innovation lies in the wheelchair-accessible bicycles. These specialized bikes can carry non-motorized wheelchairs, meaning passengers who cannot transfer from their chairs can still participate[6]. This design eliminates one of the biggest barriers facing people with significant mobility challenges.
Breaking Down Barriers: How Cycling Without Age Brings Freedom to Gold Coast Seniors Regardless of Ability
Addressing Age as a Barrier
Let’s be honest—society often treats aging as a process of giving things up. You give up driving. You give up traveling. You give up spontaneity. But Cycling Without Age challenges that narrative.
The program serves passengers ranging from their 60s to over 100 years old. In fact, the oldest passenger across all Australian chapters is 108 years old[7]! Age becomes irrelevant when you’re focused on the experience rather than the number.
I’ve heard volunteers describe passengers who initially seemed hesitant, worried they were “too old” for such adventures. But after their first ride, those same passengers become regulars, booking their next trip before they’ve even returned to the starting point.
Overcoming Disability Challenges
Physical limitations shouldn’t determine who gets to enjoy outdoor recreation. The Gold Coast chapter explicitly addresses disability as a barrier through:
- Wheelchair-accessible equipment that accommodates various mobility devices
- Trained volunteers who understand transfer assistance and safety protocols
- Flexible routes that can be adjusted based on passenger comfort and endurance
- Medical accommodation for passengers with specific health considerations
One volunteer shared a story about a passenger with advanced Parkinson’s disease who hadn’t been outside her care facility in months. The trishaw ride brought her to tears—not from sadness, but from the overwhelming joy of feeling normal again, of being part of the world instead of watching it through a window.
Eliminating Financial Barriers
Here’s something remarkable: every single ride is completely free. No membership fees. No ride charges. No hidden costs.
This matters enormously. Many seniors live on fixed incomes where every dollar counts. Recreational activities often become luxuries they can’t afford. By removing the financial barrier, Cycling Without Age ensures that economic status never determines who experiences freedom.
The program operates as a registered not-for-profit charity (established in 2019), relying on donations, grants, and community support to maintain equipment and operations[8].
“The best things in life aren’t things—they’re experiences. And those experiences shouldn’t have a price tag that excludes the people who need them most.” – Cycling Without Age volunteer
The Volunteer Experience: Hearts and Pedals
Who Volunteers and Why
The 50 active volunteers on the Gold Coast come from all walks of life. Some are retirees themselves, giving back to their peer community. Others are working professionals who volunteer on weekends. Many are simply people who recognize the value of human connection.
Across Australia’s 46 chapters, over 600 volunteers keep the program running[9]. The oldest volunteer is 86 years old, proving that you’re never too old to make a difference in someone else’s life.
When I asked volunteers what motivates them, their answers were remarkably consistent:
- 💙 The joy on passengers’ faces makes every ride worthwhile
- 🤝 Building genuine relationships with regular passengers
- 🌟 Making a tangible difference in their community
- 🚴 Staying active while helping others
- 👨👩👧👦 Intergenerational connection and learning from life experiences
Safety and Training Standards
Wayne Sticher’s role as Australia’s first accredited trainer ensures that the Gold Coast chapter maintains exceptional safety standards[10]. Volunteers don’t just show up and start pedaling—they receive comprehensive training covering:
- Trishaw operation and e-bike handling
- Passenger assistance and transfer techniques
- Route planning and hazard awareness
- Communication skills for working with seniors
- Emergency protocols and first aid basics
Passengers consistently report high satisfaction with volunteer safety protocols, compassionate piloting, and well-maintained equipment[11]. This reputation for safety helps families feel confident encouraging their elderly loved ones to participate.
The Rewards of Giving Time
Maria, a volunteer for three years, told me about a passenger named Dorothy who had been a competitive cyclist in her youth. Dorothy hadn’t been on any kind of bike in 15 years due to balance issues and arthritis. During their first ride together, Dorothy began sharing stories about cycling through the Australian countryside in the 1960s.
“By the end of the ride, Dorothy was crying,” Maria recalled. “But they were happy tears. She said she felt like herself again—not like a patient or a burden, but like Dorothy the cyclist. That’s when I understood what we’re really doing here. We’re not just giving rides. We’re giving people back pieces of themselves they thought they’d lost forever.”
Recognition and Impact: Awards That Validate the Mission
Celebrating Excellence in Community Service
The Gold Coast chapter’s dedication hasn’t gone unnoticed. The program has earned significant recognition:
- 🏆 2023 Impact Award – Acknowledging the measurable difference made in seniors’ lives
- 🌈 2024 Diversity & Inclusion Initiative of the Year – Recognizing the program’s commitment to accessibility for all abilities[12]
These aren’t participation trophies—they’re validation from the broader community that cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors in ways that matter, that can be measured, and that deserve celebration.
Measuring Success Beyond Numbers
While serving 600 passengers monthly is impressive, the real impact shows up in less quantifiable ways:
- Seniors who were socially isolated now have regular outings to anticipate
- Family members report improved mood and mental health in their elderly relatives
- Passengers with dementia experience moments of clarity and connection during rides
- Physical health improves through fresh air, vitamin D exposure, and sensory stimulation
- Community bonds strengthen as different generations interact meaningfully
One aged care facility manager noted that residents who participate in Cycling Without Age rides require less intervention for depression and anxiety. The outdoor experiences provide natural therapeutic benefits that medication alone cannot achieve.
The Ripple Effect: How One Program Transforms Entire Communities
Building Intergenerational Bridges
Modern society often segregates generations. Young people interact primarily with peers. Older adults live in age-specific communities. But Cycling Without Age creates natural opportunities for intergenerational connection.
Younger volunteers gain wisdom and perspective from passengers who’ve lived through decades of history. Older passengers feel valued and heard, their stories and experiences treated as treasures rather than inconveniences. These relationships often extend beyond the rides themselves, with volunteers and passengers staying in touch, celebrating birthdays, and genuinely caring about each other’s lives.
Inspiring Other Communities
The Gold Coast chapter’s success has inspired neighboring areas to explore starting their own chapters. Wayne Sticher’s training program has equipped volunteers across Australia to replicate the model, adapting it to local needs while maintaining core values[13].
From 21 chapters when the Gold Coast joined to 46 chapters today, the Australian movement continues growing[14]. Each new chapter represents hundreds more seniors who’ll experience the freedom of cycling without age.
Changing Perceptions About Aging and Ability
Perhaps the most profound impact is how the program challenges societal assumptions. When you see a 90-year-old laughing and waving from a trishaw, you’re forced to reconsider what’s possible. When someone in a wheelchair zooms past on a specially adapted bike, barriers that seemed permanent suddenly appear surmountable.
The program demonstrates that disability and aging are not endings—they’re simply different chapters that require creativity, compassion, and community support.
Getting Involved: How You Can Support or Participate
For Seniors and Families Wanting to Experience Rides
If you or a loved one would like to experience how cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors, getting started is straightforward:
- Contact the Gold Coast chapter to learn about current scheduling and availability
- No registration fees or costs—rides are completely free
- Discuss any special needs such as wheelchair accommodation or medical considerations
- Choose your preferred location: Paradise Point Parklands or Main Beach
- Show up at scheduled times (no advance booking required for most sessions)
Family members are welcome to walk alongside or meet at the endpoint. Many families make trishaw rides a regular outing, combining them with picnics or other activities.
Becoming a Volunteer Pilot
The program always needs more volunteers to serve the growing number of interested passengers. Here’s what volunteering involves:
Time Commitment:
- Flexible scheduling based on your availability
- Most volunteers commit to one regular session weekly
- Sessions typically run 2-3 hours including setup and cleanup
Requirements:
- Physical ability to pilot an e-bike (electric assist makes this easier than traditional cycling)
- Patience and compassion for working with seniors
- Reliable attendance for scheduled sessions
- Completion of training program
Benefits:
- Meaningful community contribution
- Physical activity and outdoor time
- Social connections with fellow volunteers
- Personal fulfillment from making a real difference
Supporting Through Donations and Advocacy
Even if you can’t volunteer or participate directly, you can support the mission:
- 💰 Financial donations help maintain equipment and expand the fleet
- 📣 Spread awareness by sharing information with seniors, families, and community groups
- 🎉 Attend fundraising events that support chapter operations
- 🏢 Corporate sponsorships can provide sustainable funding
- 🗳️ Advocate for senior mobility programs in local government planning
As a registered charity, the Gold Coast chapter depends on community support to continue operations[15]. Every contribution, whether time or money, directly impacts how many seniors experience the freedom of cycling.
The Future of Cycling Without Age on the Gold Coast
Expansion Plans and Growing Demand
With 600 passengers served monthly and only 50 volunteers, demand often exceeds capacity. The chapter is actively working to:
- Recruit additional volunteers to serve more passengers
- Add more trishaws to the fleet as funding allows
- Explore additional locations beyond Paradise Point and Main Beach
- Extend operating hours to accommodate more scheduling preferences
- Partner with more aged care facilities to reach isolated seniors
Innovations in Accessibility
The program continues evolving to serve more people with diverse needs. Future developments may include:
- Enhanced wheelchair accommodation for powered mobility devices
- Specialized trishaws for passengers with specific medical equipment
- Sensory-focused routes for passengers with dementia
- Longer distance rides for more adventurous passengers
- Virtual reality components for passengers unable to leave care facilities
Building a Legacy of Freedom
Wayne Sticher’s vision has created something that will outlast any individual volunteer or organizer. The Gold Coast chapter has established a sustainable model that can continue serving seniors for decades to come.
As Australia’s population ages—with seniors projected to comprise 22% of the population by 2057—programs like Cycling Without Age become increasingly essential[16]. The infrastructure, training systems, and community partnerships being built today will serve future generations of Gold Coast seniors.
Real Stories: How Cycling Without Age Changes Lives
Margaret’s Story: Reconnecting With Nature
Margaret, 82, had been an avid gardener and nature lover her entire life. After a stroke left her with limited mobility, she spent most days inside her daughter’s home, watching birds at the feeder outside the window. Her daughter heard about Cycling Without Age and brought Margaret to Paradise Point Parklands.
“I was nervous at first,” Margaret admitted. “I hadn’t been on anything with wheels since my stroke. But the volunteer was so kind and patient. We went slowly at first, just around the parking area. Then we headed toward the water.”
Margaret’s first ride lasted 20 minutes. She saw pelicans, felt the breeze, and heard the water lapping against the shore. “I cried the whole way,” she said. “But they were happy tears. I felt alive again.”
Now Margaret rides every Tuesday morning. She’s become friends with several volunteers and other regular passengers. Her daughter reports that Margaret’s mood has improved dramatically, and she’s more engaged with family activities.
Tom’s Story: A Veteran Returns to Service
Tom, 76, served in the Australian Defence Force for 30 years. After retirement, he struggled to find purpose. His wife suggested he volunteer with Cycling Without Age, thinking he’d enjoy the structured activity and sense of mission.
“I thought I’d be helping others,” Tom reflected. “But honestly, they’ve helped me more. Every passenger has a story—they’re veterans, teachers, nurses, parents. They’ve lived incredible lives, and I get to hear about them while we ride. It reminds me that service comes in many forms.”
Tom now volunteers three days a week and has recruited five other veterans to join him. “We joke that we’ve gone from defending Australia to defending seniors’ right to joy and freedom. It’s a mission I’m proud to serve.”
The Anderson Family: Three Generations Connected
The Anderson family discovered Cycling Without Age when searching for activities to do with Grandma Jean, who has moderate dementia. Jean’s cognitive decline had made traditional family outings challenging—she’d become confused in crowded places and anxious in unfamiliar settings.
“The trishaw rides are perfect,” explained her granddaughter, Amy. “The motion and scenery seem to calm her. She might not remember the ride later, but in the moment, she’s present and happy. We walk alongside, and she points out birds and flowers. It’s given us back quality time we thought we’d lost.”
The family now makes trishaw rides a monthly tradition, with three generations participating—Jean riding, her daughter and son-in-law walking alongside, and Amy bringing her young children to wave and cheer. “My kids are learning that disability doesn’t mean the end of adventure,” Amy said. “That’s a lesson worth more than any toy or trip to the theme park.”
Conclusion: Pedaling Toward a More Inclusive Future
Cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors in ways that extend far beyond simple transportation. This program represents a fundamental belief that every person, regardless of age or ability, deserves to experience joy, connection, and the simple pleasure of a ride through beautiful scenery.
The Gold Coast chapter’s success—serving 600 passengers monthly with 50 dedicated volunteers, earning national recognition, and inspiring communities across Australia—proves that when we prioritize inclusion and compassion, remarkable things happen.
But this success isn’t just about numbers or awards. It’s about Margaret reconnecting with nature. It’s about Tom finding new purpose. It’s about the Anderson family creating precious memories across three generations. It’s about the 108-year-old passenger who proves that adventure has no expiration date.
Your Next Steps
The beauty of Cycling Without Age is that everyone can participate in some way:
If you’re a senior or have an elderly loved one:
- Visit Paradise Point Parklands on Tuesday, Thursday, or Friday at 9:15 AM
- Experience a free ride with no obligations or commitments
- Bring family members to walk alongside and share the experience
If you want to volunteer:
- Contact the Gold Coast chapter to learn about training opportunities
- Commit to just one regular session weekly
- Join a community of compassionate people making real differences
If you want to support the mission:
- Make a tax-deductible donation to the registered charity
- Share information about the program with seniors and families
- Advocate for senior mobility programs in your community
The program resumes operations after the holiday break on January 13, 2026, ready to continue bringing freedom to Gold Coast seniors throughout the new year[17].
Remember: age is just a number, ability comes in many forms, and freedom is a right that shouldn’t diminish with time. Through the simple act of pedaling, volunteers and passengers together are proving that the best years of life aren’t necessarily the youngest—they’re the ones filled with connection, joy, and the wind in your hair.
Come experience how cycling without age brings freedom to Gold Coast seniors. Whether you’re riding, piloting, or simply cheering from the sidelines, you’ll be part of something beautiful—a community that values every person and believes that everyone deserves the freedom to explore, experience, and enjoy life at any age.
References
[1] Cycling Without Age International. (2012). “Our Story: How It All Began in Copenhagen.”
[2] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2021). “Gold Coast Chapter Registration and Trainer Accreditation.”
[3] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2016). “First Australian Trishaws Introduced to Member Chapters.”
[4] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2025). “Current Chapter Membership Statistics.”
[5] Cycling Without Age Gold Coast. (2025). “Holiday Closure Schedule 2025-2026.”
[6] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2023). “Wheelchair-Accessible Bicycle Specifications and Capabilities.”
[7] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2024). “Volunteer and Passenger Demographics Report.”
[8] Cycling Without Age Gold Coast. (2019). “Not-for-Profit Charity Registration Documentation.”
[9] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2025). “National Volunteer Statistics.”
[10] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2021). “Accredited Trainer Program Documentation.”
[11] Cycling Without Age Gold Coast. (2024). “Passenger Satisfaction Survey Results.”
[12] Community Services Awards Australia. (2024). “Diversity & Inclusion Initiative Winners.”
[13] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2023). “Chapter Development and Training Programs.”
[14] Cycling Without Age Australia. (2025). “Chapter Growth Timeline and Statistics.”
[15] Australian Charities and Not-for-profits Commission. (2019). “Cycling Without Age Gold Coast Registration.”
[16] Australian Bureau of Statistics. (2023). “Population Projections: Aging Demographics 2025-2057.”
[17] Cycling Without Age Gold Coast. (2025). “2026 Operating Schedule.”