A Metre Matters
23rd November 2009
The Amy Gillett Foundation has launched a new campaign urging cyclists and motorists to be more vigilant in leaving at least one metre between them when sharing the road.
The catch-cry forms the Foundation’s new community service announcement, which encourages motorists to allow at least a metre’s space when passing cyclists. It is also the name given to the inaugural Melbourne – Canberra Ride, which commences immediately after the launch.
The ‘A Metre Matters’ message was unveiled today in Canberra.
“The Amy Gillett Foundation is committed to improving cyclist/motorist mutual awareness and respect in an effort to make Australian roads as safe as possible for all who use them,” said Amy Gillett Foundation CEO Tony Fox.
“We firmly believe that by allowing at least a metre when passing cyclists, motorists will assist in reducing the risk of impact incidents caused on Australian roads,” said Fox.
The Foundation’s commitment to improving cyclist/motorist awareness and relations was supported by the Federal Minister for Transport, the Hon. Anthony Albanese, who joined other representatives including Tour de France star Stephen Hodge, elite cyclists and AGF Sport Scholarship recipients Amber Halliday, Jessie MacLean and Carla Ryan at this morning’s launch.
The campaign was then literally taken to the roads, with some 27+ participants departing the launch to embark on the inaugural A Metre Matters Ride, a cycling journey expected to take six days, amass 830km+ and raise awareness for the campaign and general road safety.
The epic Canberra – Melbourne ride will weave its way through Jindabyne, Khancoban, Beechworth, Mansfield and Yarra Glen before finishing in Port Melbourne.
Riders to participate in either all or parts of the A Metre Matters journey include Amy’s husband Simon Gillett, Tour de France heroes Phil Anderson and Stephen Hodge, members of the women’s AIS cycling team, swimming sensation Grant Hackett, radio personality Matt Tilley and many other friends of the Foundation who share a commitment to improving road safety for all users.
The riders will also endeavour to raise funds for the Amy Gillett Foundation, and its wealth of programs currently underway, including:
- Road Right - An innovative program to encourage learner drivers to better understand the road laws in relation to cyclists
- AustCycle – In partnership with Cycling Australia we have created a program to train and accredit cycling teachers around Australia with a standardized training program.
- Research Scholarship – Our PHD student is currently 2 years into a three year study on the causal effects of bicycle crashes
- Sporting Scholarship – Each year an up and coming female cyclist is placed on scholarship with the AIS road cycling team
Donations can be made at http://www.amygillett.org.au/canberra-to-melbourne-fundraising-ride/
