Wheel Sisters is an inspiring initiative funded by Merri-bek Council, designed to help women gain the skills needed to ride bikes confidently and independently. Since July 2023, we’ve partnered with Fawkner Neighbourhood House, Merri-bek BUG, and Bike It Better to teach 24 women in Fawkner to ride a bike for the very first time. This program isn’t just about learning to ride—it’s about building confidence, moving more, and fostering community.
”I am very glad to you and Merri-bek council for arranging this cycling course for women. It was my dream to ride, and you fulfilled it. Thank you to everyone in the community who helped me achieve this.
AfrinWheel Sisters participant
How Wheel Sisters started
The idea for Wheel Sisters came from Faith at Merri-bek BUG. After receiving numerous requests from women at the Fawkner Festa for a biking course and a ‘hijabi riding group,’ Faith saw an opportunity to make a difference. With support from a Merri-bek Community Strengthening Grant, she teamed up with Fawkner Neighbourhood House and Cazz from Bike It Better to create this transformative program.
Now, with 24 women trained in Fawkner and another 10 booked in for a new round in Glenroy, the program is growing and there has been interest from all over the north of Merri-bek. Similar programs overseas, such as CycleSisters in London, has shown that there is huge demand for programs to teach and bring women together to ride.
What is involved?
1. One-on-one training: Each participant receives 3 hours of personalised training to learn the basics of biking—pedalling, balancing, and steering. The women are provided with a free bike and helmet to take home, donated by Brainwave Bikes, a local not-for-profit that supports families affected by brain illness and injury. CERES Bike Shed have also provided free mechanical support when a bike needs some love or attention throughout the program.
2. Group classes: After the 1-1 training, the women join 4 weeks of group classes to build their skills. They learn to navigate bike paths, handle bends and curves, and manage various bike controls. Special attention is given to accommodating different types of clothing, including longer robes and hijabs.
3. Weekly riding groups: A regular Friday weekly riding group has been established at the Neighbourhood House. This provides a supportive, social environment where participants can continue to ride together and enjoy their new skills.
”Although initially hesitant, the support from organiser Faith and trainer Cazz helped me overcome my doubts and build confidence. Now, having mastered biking, I am grateful for this empowering initiative by the Council.
FahimaWheel Sisters participant
The impact
Of the 24 women trained in Fawkner, only 2 had ridden a bike before, and just 8 had a driver’s license. Most participants joined the program for exercise or to be able to ride with their children. The program has also helped women from multicultural and multi-faith backgrounds increase their mobility, health, independence and sense of community.
Celebrating achievements
To acknowledge the achievements of the Fawkner participants, 2 certificate ceremonies were held at the Neighbourhood House, complete with celebrations and halal cake. The women continue to ride together every Friday, enjoying their new skills and connection.
”I am very happy for bicycle class because I am very good now. I am going to kindergarten and drop off my daughter and sometimes shopping. It is very fast, faster than people walking. The class is very good support for me
AnumWheel Sisters participant and single mother with 2 children
What’s next?
We’ve launched a new round of the Wheel Sisters program in Glenroy, with 20 more women joining us over Spring and Summer.
Our goal is to build a vibrant community of women riders and Wheel Sisters in the north of Merri-bek. By bringing together new riders and building skills together, we hope to encourage more women to gain confidence on their bikes and create a sisterhood of riders who can inspire and support each other.
Stay tuned for more updates and join us in celebrating this wonderful journey towards independence and community building through riding!
You can follow along the journey of our Wheel Sisters in training through Merri-bek BUG’s Instagram.
