Rolling Together: The Lyneham Bike Bus Brings Kids, Families, and Community Along for the Ride

Every Wednesday morning at 8:15, something special happens in North Lyneham. A group of kids, parents, and even grandparents gather at the North Lyneham Shops—helmets strapped on, bikes ready to roll. This is the Lyneham Bike Bus, a heartwarming community initiative that’s turning the school run into a joyful, active adventure.

What started in December 2022 as a simple idea shared over coffee at Tilly’s - between Paris, the energetic ride leader, and a few passionate local parents from the Walk Cycle Lyneham group - has grown into something much bigger. United by a love for riding, sustainability, and safer streets, they planned a route, gathered friends and neighbours, and set off on their first ride.

“We wanted to support a lifelong love of riding and reduce the number of cars used for short trips,” says Kate, one of the organisers. “The streets were starting to feel unsafe, and this felt like a joyful way to reclaim that space.”

Since then, the Bike Bus has only gathered momentum.

Each week, Paris leads the way with music pumping from a speaker on his bike, keeping the energy up and the mood light. “The Bike Bus is a party on wheels,” he says. “When we approach spots like Archibald or Gill Street and see kids and adults waiting patiently, it’s the best feeling in the world.”

But it’s not just about the fun. Over time, Paris has seen real growth in the kids’ confidence. “Some of them even overtake me now! They know the corners, they help the new kids, and they don’t let a fall stop them - they just get up and keep going.”

The biggest ride yet happened on Wednesday, 19 March 2025, during their Ride to School Extravaganza - a celebration that brought together nearly 50 people, including 26 children. The sense of community was unmistakable.

Community support helped make the Ride to School Extravaganza one to remember. Local businesses like Mojo Cycles, Capital Chemist Lyneham, and The Tradies lent a hand - whether through bike checks, sweet treats, or simply cheering riders on. There was also backing from local politicians, reflecting the growing support for the Bike Bus across Canberra.

Parents grabbed a coffee, kids decorated their bikes with streamers, and a local mechanic offered free tune-ups. More than just a school run, it was a morning full of colour, connection, and joy.

One parent told Paris she had watched her son and husband join the Bike Bus each week, and the 19th was the moment she finally decided to join in herself. “They arrived at school together, all wearing big smiles,” Paris recalls. “Then the adults rode off to work. It was a beautiful, shared memory.”

Kate says she’s been surprised - but thrilled - by how strongly the community has embraced it. “Lyneham has a strong bike culture, so we had a hunch people would be on board. But it’s the kids that keep it going. They’re so happy when they get to school, and I’ve overheard them talking excitedly about the ride.”

The impact goes far beyond the school run. “We’re social beings,” says Paris. “Projects like this help us connect in really simple, meaningful ways. And every time one family chooses to ride, that’s one less car on the road.”

Looking ahead, the team would love to expand the Bike Bus through Dickson and Downer - areas that are also part of Lyneham Primary’s catchment. “The more kids we can welcome in, the better,” says Kate.

As Paris puts it, quoting Portland-based coach Sam Balto, “It’s not a moment—it’s a movement.” And thanks to this small but mighty crew in Lyneham, that movement is rolling forward with real joy.

The Lyneham Bike Bus leaves every Wednesday morning at 8:15am from the North Lyneham Shops. Everyone’s welcome - just bring a bike, a helmet, and a good dose of community spirit.

Because it’s not just about getting to school. It’s about the ride, the friendships, and the joy of moving together.