Boroondara Council
- case study
The council with the highest number of repair stations in Australia
Boasting twenty bicycle repair stations and two skateboard repair stations – working together with all4cycling, Boroondara Council is leading the way. The bike stations include a pump and basic tools to help you do minor maintenance on your bike. The first station was installed in 2015 and have been gradually growing ever since. Although the stations are built to be robust and resistance to general wear and tear, they still require frequent servicing due to their popular demand and use. Each station receiving a scheduled servicing three times a year. Users are generally respectful of these stations, and they rarely require unscheduled repairs. Having proven the test of time these stations have been refined over the years to address most common issues. One issue that has been difficult to resolve is vandalism.
Although uncommon vandalism has affected some stations. However, these are promptly dealt with by all4cycling, often addressed during scheduled maintenance. Future vandalism can be successfully deterred by installing lighting and security cameras.
Boroondara Council’s most popular repair stations are on the Gardiners Creek Trail. A busy 19.8 km scenic trail that follows Gardiners creek through the eastern suburbs of Melbourne. Many riders travel west eventually arriving in central Melbourne. There are four stations on this route providing repair tools to ensure cyclists have a seamless experience on this trail.
With the increasing adoption of electric bikes there’s scope for introducing charging stations alongside repair stations, complementing the efforts around the climate action plan initiatives councils are aiming to achieve.
E-bikes have opened the world of cycling to people of all ages and fitness levels, allowing people to reach greater distances effortlessly, enjoying all the sights and sounds on offer. Now with plenty of bike repair stations on route, riding for pleasure or commute has never been easier.
