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Refugees on the right path

Suzanne Robson

05Nov07

A BRUNSWICK East-based bicycle mechanic is helping asylum seekers go the distance.

Bill Bretherton has been donating bicycles to refugees for four years through his volunteer-run collective, Human Powered Cycles, where he repairs and sells pre-loved and broken bicycles.

Last month Bretherton received a $1000 grant from Cycling Promotion to run a cycling program teaching asylum seekers how to ride and maintain their bicycles.

Each participant received their own bicycle.

``It is such a practical and beneficial way of helping people in need,'' he said.

``Asylum seekers are suffering from transport disadvantage, they have no right to work and no access to concession benefits.

Each cyclist was also given lights, locks and helmets donated by bicycle wholesalers.

Mr Bretherton said the group of eight asylum seekers, who ranged in age from eight to 50, met on Sundays for a ride around Merri Creek and a picnic lunch afterwards.

``We will eventually ride on the road but some are still learning,'' he said.

Jahaberdeen Mohamed Ali and his nine-year-old daughter Sabeeha, pictured, who moved to Australia in 2001, have been enjoying bicycle riding.

``The whole family enjoys it,'' he said.

Mr Bretherton said he wanted the program to show both the practical and social sides of riding.

``Some of these people have suffered great trauma or are from war-torn countries so it is important to focus on the positive,'' he said.

Details: www.humanpowered.com.au