MEMORIAL RIDE FOR GITTA
This morning’s memorial ride for Gitta Scheenhouwer drew great support from Melbourne’s cycling community.
Over 120 cyclists pedaled down Chapel Street to the location where Gitta lost her life after a car crashed into her earlier in August. She was cycling in the bike lane.
Cyclists rang their bells to create an eerie yet poignant reminder of why they were there.
While all cyclists called for safer cycling conditions and greater respect on our roads, Stonnington Council Mayor, Steve Stefanopoulos, proposed that all parked cars be removed from Chapel Street to allow the installation of dedicated, protected cycleways and more space for pedestrians. “Vehicles can go on a side street. You guys are more important, as are pedestrians,” he said.
The Liberals’ candidate for Prahran, Katie Allen, wanted to see minimum passing distance laws brought in, in Victoria.
Thanks to Victoria Police who supported this event with extensive road marshalling and Yarra Trams who slowed their fleet to accommodate the influx of cyclists.
