Assistant Commissioner (Traffic) Noel Ashby today encouraged cyclists across the state to get on track and help celebrate 23 years of safe cycling in Victoria.

Safe Cycle Month is a state-wide initiative which aims to increase cyclist safety and reduce the number of bicycle-related collisions and injuries on Victorian roads.

As part of the program, police reward cyclists who demonstrate safe riding on the roads by placing them in the draw to win prizes including cycling gear and accessories.

Last year police spoke to more than 22,000 cyclists throughout Victoria.

Mr Ashby said many collisions involving cyclists could be prevented if people were more aware of cyclist safety.

He said more than half of casualty victims of cycling collisions were under 15 years old.

“Many of these collisions could be avoided. Road safety is everyone’s responsibility. People need to more aware and better educated about how we can all share the road safely,” Mr Ashby said.

“It’s important that every road user remains vigilant about safety at all times. Every death on the road is a tragedy and we must work together to save lives.”

Each year, there are about 15,000 bicycle collisions in Victoria. Ten cyclists have been fatally injured on Victorian roads this year, compared with five in 2005.

Safe Cycle Month is an annual road safety initiative conducted by Victoria Police and is supported by Vic Roads, the Amy Gillett Foundation and other government and community organisations.