Safe cycling petition draws 2,400 signatures

A TORQUAY family advocating for a safe bike path on a Surf Coast road have received more than 2,400 signatures on an online petition.

In October 2022, 14-year-old Aaron Tremul nearly lost his life after being hit by a car while riding his mountain bike near Bells Beach.

The 800m stretch of narrow and winding road is between the Bells Beach and Southside car parks and is shared with vehicles.

The petition to Regional Roads Victoria aims to promote the need for a dedicated bike path along the stretch for the safety of all road users.

Aaron’s mother Leann said the response to the petition had been mind-blowing.

 

“The response has been amazing, and we are so thrilled to see so many signatures.

“It’s pleasing to see all the comments of support, including multiple signees expressing they have had many near misses on the stretch in picture.

“It’s so important that everyone can feel safe on the road. A dedicated path ensures that.

“We hope VicRoads and other stakeholders can come to the party to make this happen.”

The Surf Coast Shire and VicRoads reduced the speed limit from 80kmh to 60km after the accident, however the family believes this measure has made little difference to road safety.

 

Ms Tremul said a dedicated path would hopefully ensure no family would have to go through a similar experience.

“It’s affected Aaron, our family and our friends deeply.

“Aaron is still too scared to get back on his bike or go for his learners’ driving license.

“Our hope is bringing in a designated path will mean an incident like this will never happen again.”

To read or sign the petition, head to change.org and search “Safe Bike Access Bells Beach”