For firefighting veteran Wayne Sticher, community service didn’t end at retirement. A lifetime cyclist, Wayne launched the Gold Coast chapter of Cycling Without Age in 2020 so that everyone, no matter their age or ability, could enjoy a bike ride.
Cycling Without Age takes the elderly or those who have disabilities out on specially designed trishaws piloted by volunteers. Its youngest passenger was three months old and the oldest, 104. Passengers report improvements in mood, appetite and sleep after a trip. The local community has also rallied around the initiative. The volunteer team, who are trained to ensure the safety and enjoyment of all passengers, is now 60 strong with an age range spanning 65 years.
On top of Cycling Without Age, Wayne holds several volunteer positions in the community, including as a radio operator for Volunteer Marine Rescue Southport.
Cycling Without Age was recognised last year with the Queensland Volunteering Impact Award.