Pedal power building community connections at Mansfield Community Hub
Our recent partnership with Cycling Without Age (CWA) brought smiles to our Mansfield Community Hub, as some of our clients had the chance to experience a ride on a trishaw bike.
Yooralla's Mansfield Community Hub is always looking for new ways to connect our clients to community activities and strengthen their connections to the local community. Our recent partnership with Cycling Without Age (CWA) brought smiles to the Mansfield Hub, as some of our clients had the chance to experience a ride on a trishaw bike.
A trishaw is a three-wheeled bicycle with a passenger seat at the front and a pilot at the back who pedals and steers, giving passengers a relaxing ride while enjoying the sights.
Cycling Without Age is a new initiative in the Mansfield area, currently operating one trishaw, with the community actively fundraising to purchase another.
When Sophie from CWA visited the Hub, her enthusiasm was contagious. Our clients were all smiles and laughter as they took their first ride around the car park.
The impact on our clients was immediate. “Two of our clients kept mentioning the bike and another was asking when they could go again,” said Suzanne, Acting Service Manager at Mansfield Hub. It’s moments like these that highlight the value of community connection and supporting our clients to try new experiences.
One of the most heartwarming moments was when one client reassured another, offering support and reminding Sophie to take it slow and steady. “There were so many positives from the experience—community connections, opportunities to try new things and clients supporting each other. Even though it was only a short part of the day, it provided plenty of conversation and laughter,” Suzanne added.
These opportunities are about more than just the ride – they’re about building friendships, fostering community spirit and, most importantly, having fun with friends.
“I think any opportunity for our clients to connect with the community is fantastic. Living in a small town, it’s all about building connections and friendships,” said Suzanne.
We’re excited to continue our partnership with CWA and are already planning more opportunities for our clients to enjoy the trishaw experience.
Interested in joining one of our Community Hubs?
Yooralla's Community Hubs are for adults with disability who would like to take part in educational, recreational, creative, social or workplace skills activities. With hubs and supports located across Victoria, you can join in person or online.