Graham Gillette, Phil Barton, Phil Davidge, Dougall McKellar and Dave Pearce cycle around Wagga every week with Neil Cole (missing). Photo: Supplied.
Each week, six retired gentlemen can be seen quietly making their way around the extensive cycle network that winds through Wagga Wagga.
They are not training for races or chasing records. Instead, they are enjoying something far more valuable — friendship, good health and the simple pleasure of being active.
Their ages range from 69 to 81 years, and together they average around 100 kilometres of cycling each week.
The kilometres are important, but they are only part of the story. The greatest rewards are the conversations shared along the way, the laughter over coffee and the knowledge that they are doing something positive for their physical and mental wellbeing.
One member of the group has a particularly remarkable story.
David Pearce has been cycling around Wagga Wagga for the past 18 years. His current bicycle has travelled an extraordinary 105,000 kilometres.
Even more remarkable is that during all those kilometres, he has only replaced the chain twice — a testament to his smooth riding style and meticulous maintenance routine after every ride.
Dave’s story is even more interesting when you consider his background.
During his working life as a motor mechanic, he owned no fewer than 72 motorcars.
Then, in 1995, he had what he describes as an awakening. He realised that owning a car was no longer a priority in his life. He sold it and embraced cycling as his primary means of transport.
Today, he owns no motor vehicle at all.
Since retiring in 2019, Dave has experienced reduced mobility, yet his e-assist bicycle has given him continued independence.
It allows him to shop, visit friends, meet the cycling group and remain an active participant in the community.
Dave Pearce has ridden the bike in the photo 105,000 km around Wagga. Photo: Supplied.
His story demonstrates how modern e-bikes can be life-changing, particularly for older Australians wishing to remain mobile and independent.
The weekly rides take them across Wagga Wagga’s outstanding network of shared pathways, regularly visiting coffee shops throughout the city, supporting local businesses while enjoying the social side of cycling.
Those cafe stops are every bit as important as the rides themselves.
They are where friendships are strengthened, stories are shared and plenty of good-natured banter takes place.
The benefits of regular cycling at any age simply cannot be overstated.
Medical research consistently shows that regular physical activity improves heart health, strengthens muscles and bones, assists with weight management, reduces stress, anxiety and depression, and helps people remain independent for longer.
For retirees, the social interaction is equally important.
Loneliness and isolation can have a significant impact on health, and cycling provides a simple and enjoyable way to stay connected.
It is the group’s hope that when people see their small group riding around Wagga Wagga, they don’t simply see six older men on bicycles.
They see six mates enjoying life, looking after their health, supporting local businesses and proving that growing older doesn’t mean slowing down.
Their message is a simple one.
It is never too late to get on a bike.
Whether you’re 25 or 85, cycling offers enormous physical, mental and social benefits. Find a friend, join a local group, explore your community and discover for yourself why two wheels can make such a positive difference to your life.
After all, age is just a number — but friendship, good health and an active lifestyle are priceless.
