Over the years I have heard many Yamba residents, who happen to enjoy cycling, express concerns over the fact that the only road between their town and Maclean is nigh on impassable for two-wheeled traffic and, that Yamba might as well be an island when it comes to bicycle travel.People who enjoy a long brisk walk rarely proceed even as far as Yamba bridge due to the uncomfortable proximity of vehicular traffic.
If for no other reason than a collective lower carbon footprint, NSW North Coast local government should be actively pursuing linking its small towns via designated cycle lanes, when these same towns are within easy reach of the recreational cyclist.
The immediate spin-offs would possibly be first expressed as an increased exchange of disposable income between towns and higher tourists traffic (something Northern Rivers towns tirelessly work towards achieving).
Cycle track
IT'S time that a cycle track and walking path were constructed between Yamba and Maclean.
The Maclean to Yamba road is always busy throughout the year for work, school and other traffic - and especially at peak tourist times. Walkers and recreational cyclists in Yamba take their lives in their hands if they venture past the Oyster Channel bridge.
Increasing numbers of people cycle for recreation and fitness. We are urged to look after our health and fitness by walking.
Let's see Clarence Valley Council get on and provide this much needed infrastructure.
S SCHMOLKE, Yamba.
[The Daily Examiner, letter to the editor, 29 December 2009]
Cycling
FULL praise to Sue Schmolke for raising the issue of cycle paths in Yamba and Maclean.
Not that long ago I had to leave my car at Maclean for repairs, and because I had been a cyclist over many years I decided to take my bike with me and ride home to Yamba.
The trip back was a delight, but I am afraid to say there were parts of the road where I couldn't get off and I heard cars being slowed down as they inched their way past me.
Suffice to say, I won't be doing this again, but it seems such a shame in these days when most of us should be exercising more.
I am sure we have all seen small family groups arriving in Yamba with vans or trailers. More often than not there are bikes somewhere on the load.
This alone must give some credence to what Sue Schmolke is saying.
This comment is not intended as criticism of our council. In many ways their outlook has been marvellous with quite a few cycleways already in existence.
What is needed, however, are more ways of keeping cyclists of all ages, particularly children, out of harm's way.
More or better cycleways, plus attention to the verges on existing roads, can only add to the success that is Yamba and Maclean.
ALLAN TOWNSEND, Yamba.
[The Daily Examiner, letter to the editor,16 January 2010]
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