Bicycles, Bike Racks and Cycle Tourists

The O’Keefe Rail Trail linked Heathcote to Axedale and Bendigo in mid 2015, then officially opened on 21 Dec 2015. An increasing number of cyclists and walkers were coming to town , seeking food, wine, coffee and often accomodation. Where were the bikes being left in Heathcote, while all this ‘seeking’ was happening?

A review noted bikes leaning against buildings and rubbish bins, or ‘looking lost’ along Heathcote’s High St area. The High St footpaths outside cafes and bakeries were often cluttered by bikes, being dodged by pedestrians. Where were the bike racks to assist? For a town reported as having the longest main street (High St) in Australia, it was found that there were only two (2) aging single hoop bike racks available!

With the involvement of some proactive local Heathcote residents plus assistance of the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail, the Council and Councillors were approached to review the situation. Realising the lack of bike parking facilities, Council staff then determined the best locations for new racks, with input sort from local businesses. During the investigations, a suggestion was made to Council staff by the Friends of the Bendigo-Kilmore Rail Trail that related to the Heathcote area having the reputation as a producer of fine wines. The suggestion was to  provide some ‘corkscrew’ (spiral) bike racks, to align with this wine related reputation.

New ‘corkscrew’ bike rack – Heathcote Wine Hub 11 June 2016. Photo Lyn Furneaux

The outcome has become a streetscape highlight, with Council installing three new ‘corkscrew’ or spiral stainless steel racks plus 9 hoop type stainless steel bike racks along High St. The spiral rack types are the first to be installed within the City of Greater Bendigo area, so reflects the impact that the new O’Keefe Rail Trail is having on local cycle tourism!

New spiral bike rack, full with bikes! High St Heathcote 11 June 2016. Photo Lyn Furneaux