Saturday 26 December 2015

TOY RUN 2016

All the best for a safe and happy 2016 to you and yours.

"We want you at the TOY RUN for Father Bob."


The IRG has applied for a permit to hold the next TOY RUN for Father Bob on Sunday, December 11, 2016. The venue will be the same, next to LUNA PARK in Melbourne.



IRG membership is free and you can withdraw at any time. You can join through the IRG facebook page. All we want is a name, postcode and email address and we will keep you informed on laws, taxes and activities that effect riders.

https://www.facebook.com/IndependentRidersGroup/videos/433810306813514/?video_source=pages_finch_main_video&theater

https://youtu.be/Cndn-VwL-bI?t=179

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-2ATavzPME

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders' Group (IRG)
PO Box 4330,
Doncaster Heights, Vic. 3109.

www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup

Wednesday 23 December 2015

BLOOD DONOR DRIVE

In 1978, as President of the original Motorcycle Riders Association, I threw down a motorcycle gauntlet in front of the then Police Commissioner, Mick Miller. He picked it up and the BLOOD CHALLENGE began. Victoria's motorcyclists challenged Police to give more blood than riders over the three summer months.

The time limit on giving blood then was once in three months.

This was a campaign that cost the RED CROSS nothing. It was great PR for both riders and Police. It really did some good when regular blood donors were busy before Christmas or away afterwards. It was good publicity for the RED CROSS and it encouraged people to become donors. Other groups like the Scouts and Melbourne Fire Brigade joined the BLOOD CHALLENGE and it became an annual event.



In Melbourne we organised BLOOD RUNS and SWAP MEETS to raise money for the RED CROSS BLOOD SERVICE.

MRA Branches interstate started their own BLOOD CHALLENGES.



In today's AGE it says the RED CROSS expects to run low on blood supplies over the holidays.



















How is it that with a bigger population and better transport and technology the RED CROSS can't manage it's donors so blood supplies do not run low and people who need blood don't suffer for lack of the red stuff?

The Victorian BLOOD CHALLENGE , organised by the MRA, ran for 30 years. In my opinion, it was killed off by corporatisation and a police administration that wanted to distance itself from bikies. Victoria Police in 2015 is not the same force it was in the 1970s and 1980s. It has a far more military image and MO today. This article was in Police Life Magazine in 1981.


































The RED CROSS changed too. It went corporate. Masters of business studies began to change the nature of the organisation. A media unit was set up. Young career-minded people with diplomas and degrees came to the South Melbourne HQ. There was a high turnover of staff as the masters got a couple of years working for a big name charity on their CVs. Each year we organised the BLOOD CHALLENGES we had to deal with new faces that knew little about life, less about volunteers and even less about motorcyclists. Silly ideas were common.

The Masters began to cut costs. The volunteers that served the tea and cakes to donors after they gave blood began to go as they got tied up in more and more red tape. The booking system changed so clubs and associations could not organise group donor sessions, at least not easily. MRA BLOOD RUNS ended. Many BLOOD BANKS were closed particularly in regional Victoria where they were almost social hubs as well as medical facilities. Many volunteers who had served the RED CROSS faithfully over decades were treated poorly so they left.



The MRA BLOOD CHALLENGE ran into more and more silly ideas and less and less cooperation.



Then one day, the CEO called me into the South Melbourne BLOOD BANK . "We are going to give you an award for organising 30 years organising the BLOOD CHALLENGE " said the woman in the smart business suit. This was a new award. It would be presented by the Federal Health Minister of the day. I said I would accept it on behalf of the MRA. I smelt a rat.



Within a week or two the police said they would not be part of the 31st BLOOD CHALLENGE because the emergency services were going to run their own challenge from now on and we could organise a bike club challenge. That was never going to work with the disunity that was growing in the motorcycle community. I suspect police command were aware of that. The Emergency Service BLOOD CHALLENGE didn't happen. The MRA BLOOD CHALLENGE did not make 31. The longest-running, most cost effective blood donor campaign ended. The interstate challenges declined and ended as the masters dominated RED CROSS BLOOD SERVICE policy.

Damien Codognotto OAM accepts an award on behalf of the original MRA for 30 years of BLOOD CHALLENGES from the Federal Health Minister.
So here we are, another summer holiday and another blood drought and another formula media release from the media unit in the South Melbourne HQ. It calls for donors to give blood over the break. If you can I urge you to give blood before the end of 2015.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Independent Riders' Group
Melbourne

RIDER DIES


THE AGE
LETTERS

The festive travel season begins. City drivers on country roads and
country drivers on city roads different times and conditions. A time for
extra care.

Motorcycle and scooter riders will be out there too. They are classed
vulnerable road users with bicyclists and pedestrians. What is just a
bump for someone in a car can destroy a family's happiness in the
festive season.

The Independent Riders Group asks all road users to take extra care
during the holidays. Prepare for longer trips. Stay alert. Heed
the VicRoads' message. "SHARE THE ROAD - Travel Happy".

Damien Codognotto OAM
Independent Riders' Group
Melbourne

Motorcyclist dies in Albert Park crash - Victoria Police News

http://vicpolicenews.com.au/news/8753-motorcyclist-dies-in-albert-park-crash.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

http://www.theage.com.au/victoria/motorcyclist-killed-in-crash-with-taxi-in-albert-park-20151223-glub9k.html

-------- Forwarded Message --------
Subject: FESTIVE SEASON ROAD USERS
Date: Thu, 24 Dec 2015 10:19:45 +1100
From: Damien Codognotto <d.codognotto.oam@bigpond.com>
To: MLA ALP - LUKE DONNELLAN - NARRE WARREN NORTH - MINISTER FOR ROADS

On 23/12/2015 7:43 PM, B wrote:

Damien,

I am sure you have seen tonight’s news showing a motorcycle rider has
been killed after hitting a taxi that was doing a U turn.

It looks to me very much like the Taxi driver not only U turned in front
of the rider but also U turned over a SOLID WHITE LINE.

You will no doubt have grasped that the taxi driver was committing not
just one offence, yet after the newscast most people believe another
dangerous motorcycle rider has been killed due to his own fault.

I hope the riders family and the general public get to appreciate
exactly who was at fault here and that all are made well aware the rider
had no chance and was not anyway at fault.

Regards

B

Thanks for the info B.

I didn't see it. I don't have TV. What a terrible start to the Festive
Season.

In my opinion, a lot of the reason the media makes misleading reports on
motorbike crashes is that some taxpayer-funded media units bias their
output on bike crashes to indicate the bike rider was the cause of the
crash and/or in the wrong too often.

This bias may, or may not be, policy. It may be ill-informed crash scene
reporting and ignorance on the part of media unit staff. This situation
is unlikely to change while the State Government permits VicRoads
appoint motorcycle and scooter reps.

Damien
IRG

Tuesday 22 December 2015

GOOD POINT

From the Herald Sun in Melbourne - December 23, 2015.

Thursday 17 December 2015

TOY RUN PRIZE

The owner of the Vulcan with trailer, rego IU 752 won a year's subscription to HEAVY DUTY magazine at the TOY RUN for Father Bob on December 13, 2015. Please contact the Independent Riders Group and well post your prize to you.

Monday 14 December 2015

TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS

Series 4 Episode 12 : Sunday 3 pm on ONE in Sydney.  

We go on the inaugural NSW Politicians Ride and find out who is the surprise packet of the Parliament.We discover the reason Helga rides a purple Ducati. Irish from Moto DNA updates us on those doing his training course.Rod from Pirates Seachest reveals the origin of his nickname. Johann from Oz Trikes shows us his latest weapon of choice. Hirsty remembers the last time he saw Kings Cross Bikers’ founder Animal OAM and reflects on Eternity plus we discover what it takes to be a distinguished gentleman and look at what could happen at Daytona Beach if you are quick!

Make sure you check your local TV Guides for time variations in different states and territories plus weekly episode repeats.

WHAT A GREAT DAY!


https://youtu.be/Cndn-VwL-bI?t=179

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G-2ATavzPME

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesperson
Independent Riders' Group (IRG)

Friday 11 December 2015

ROUTE MAP



































MULETA'S TODAY - TOY RUN TOMORROW

BIG JOHN YOUNG OAM and his lady Leanne flew to Melbourne from Newcastle to go on the TOY RUN for FATHER BOB. Cate picked them up from Tullamarine Airport and brought them in to our regular coffee stop at Muleta's this morning. Saturday, December 12, 2015.

BIG JOHN was awarded his Order of Australia Medal last June for his work for children's charities. He has organised 37 annual TOY RUNs in Newcastle.

Make he and Leanne feel welcome at the TOY RUN for FATHER BOB in St Kilda tomorrow.














BIG JOHN YOUNG OAM

Thursday 10 December 2015

MORE GOOD PUBLICITY

Another TOY RUN is generating more good publicity for motorcycle & scooter riders. The Herald Sun Cars Guide listed the TOY RUN for Father Bob on its' What's On page. They ran a great photo too. Positive publicity wins riders respect on our roads. The Herald Sun gets to a lot of Victorian car drivers.

Sunday 6 December 2015

RIDES TO THE TOY RUN FOR FATHER BOB

Toy Run for Father Bob - Sunday, 13th December, 2015 - 9am to 3pm The Father Bob Maguire Foundation feeds & supports many homeless, and families, facing financial hardship. Donations of non fluffy toys, non-perishable food, clothes, blankets & cash are needed. At 11am the Toy Run will leave Luna Park and travel along the beach to Port Melbourne and back; about 12kms, 1/2 hour. Spectators encouraged along the route, to witness the colourful column of motorcycles, sidecars, scooters & trikes, and their start & finish at O'Donnell Gardens, along with live music and stalls. Riders assemble in Shakespeare Grove, beside O'Donnell Gardens, next to Luna Park from 9am; no registration or fee. Wear fancy dress if you like; there can never be too many Santa's!

Please do not park in front/forecourt outside Luna Park entrance; proceed to O'Donnell Gardens, via Shakespeare Grove.

Please do not overtake on the ride, and observe all road laws.
See below: outer Melbourne ride assembly points for regional riders to join up with; welcome to add more - advise independentridersgroup@iinet.net.au Prizes awarded for best decorated motorcycle, sidecar, scooter & trike; and to best dressed male & female riders. Everybody welcome; tram stop at O'Donnell Gardens/Luna Park.
NORTHERN SUBURBS RIDERS:

Assemble from 8:45am at BP, Cooper St, EPPING
Depart: 9:00am
YARRA RANGES RIDERS: Assemble from 8:30am at Beechworth Bakery, Maroondah Hwy, HEALESVILLE. Depart: 8:45am.

RINGWOOD RIDERS: Assemble at BP on Maroondah Hwy, cnr Oban Rd & Old Lilydale Rd, RINGWOOD. Depart: 9:30am. Ride along Eastlink (toll pass required), Eastern Freeway, Hoddle St, Punt Rd, Carlisle St St Kilda arriving at 10:30am for Toy Run parade leaving at 11:00am 
from O'DONNELL GARDENS, next to Luna Park.
BOX HILL RIDERS: Assemble from 9:00am at Mick Hone Motorcycles, 715 Whitehorse Rd, MONT ALBERT NORTH. Depart: 9:30am via Elgar Rd to Eastern Freeway as above.
WESTERN SUBURBS RIDERS:
Assemble from 8:00am at CALTEX, western ramp city bound, WERRIBEE. Depart: 8:30am


WILLIAMSTOWN RIDERS: Assemble from 8:30am at UNITED, Todd Rd/City bound, Westgate Bridge. Depart: 8:50am


BACCHUS MARSH RIDERS: Assemble from 7:00am near Courthouse in Bacchus Marsh Ave. Depart: 7:30am to join Werribee at 8:00am (as above)

Media enquiries to: Damien Codognotto OAM, IRG  Spokesperson 0419 846 855 

Thursday 3 December 2015

TWO TOY RUN ITEMS

PLEASE NOTE if you are at the TOY RUN for Father Bob in Melbourne on December 13, 2015.

1. No vehicle is allowed on the forecourt in front of the entrance to LUNA PARK, the huge face of the man in the moon. It looks great in photos but you have to take your snaps on foot. We had to get special permission to take the photo with Heather, Father Bob and Bernie.




















2. Summer Sundays near the beach can mean traffic congestion and car parking shortages. Non-riders are encouraged to leave the car at home and bring family and friends on trams 16 or 96. The tram stop is right outside LUNA PARK.

This is a great TOY RUN venue. We want this TOY RUN to be an ongoing success so please park legally and no bikes in front of old moonface.

Damien
IRG

NINE DAYS TO THE TOY RUN

This week the Herald Sun Cars Guide, Motorcycle Trader and Australian MotorCycle News ran ads for the TOY RUN for Father Bob in Melbourne. By supporting this TOY RUN these publications are supporting motorcycling. Return the favour by buying a copy if you have not already done so.



































































Tuesday 1 December 2015

ELEVEN DAYS TO THE TOY RUN

It's a great cause and it's good PR for motorcycling and it's FREE! Parade lap at 11 am. Sunday, December 13, 2015. Live music in the park next to LUNA PARK. Scroll down. All welcome. Non-riders can catch the No. 16 or 96 tram to Luna Park. Acland Street eateries, St Kilda Pier, the Sunday Market and more.





















































Saturday 28 November 2015

TOY RUN FOR FATHER BOB

There's just two weeks to go to the TOY RUN for 
Father Bob in St Kilda next to LUNA PARK. It's
on Sunday, December 13, 2015.

https://youtu.be/HLnoBf8u5oI


Sunday 22 November 2015

TEKNO INFO FROM VICROADS

Again the safety onus is put on the bike rider not the car driver.

VICROADS ON MOTORCYCLE TECHNOLOGY

Media Release
 
Date: Monday, 23 November 2015

New VicRoads campaign urges motorcycle riders to review bike safety
 
Today VicRoads has launched a new campaign to provide motorcycle and scooter riders with detailed information about safety technology.
   
The social media and online campaign enables people to review the safety features of bikes manufactured since 2010 and to consider new rides with the latest safety devices. 

“Motorcycle safety technology has advanced at such a rapid rate that it can be hard to stay up to date,” VicRoads, Director Vehicle and Road Use Policy, Robyn Seymour, said.

“VicRoads has created a one-stop-shop for motorcycle and scooter riders to find out which bikes have safety features such as Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS), Motorcycle Stability Control (MSC), Traction Control and Linked (also known as Combined) Braking Systems.

“With summer around the corner, many riders are planning their weekend and holiday road trips. We want them to have the safest motorcycle possible.”

A recent report by Monash University Accident Research Centre (MUARC) found that motorcyclists riding on-road bikes without ABS were 45 per cent more likely to be involved in a serious crash, compared to those riding with ABS.

International research has found that a rider has more confidence to brake with ABS, and at 100km/h that could save up to nine metres braking distance.  

To see motorcycles and their safety features, riders should visit

www.vicroads.vic.gov.au/saferbikes


To see VicRoads new video about ABS, riders should visit

www.youtube.com/user/vicroads
 
Murray Collins
Senior Media Advisor
Communications & Stakeholder Engagement
VicRoads

Friday 20 November 2015

CAR DRIVER EDUCATION IN VIC???

Victorian Roads Minister, Luke Donnellan MP, promised riders at the IRG
RIDE TO WORK BREAKFAST in March 2015 that traffic filtering rules for
motorcycle & scooter riders would come into effect in September.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WnhzntaqIlI

The IRG, VSRA, VMC and other organisations had input to writing the
rules and they are pretty good.

Riders were also promised an education campaign to raise the awareness
of other road users to motorcycles & scooters and teach car drivers how
to drive safely around bikes.

We were not permitted to have input to writing the education campaign or
how it would be delivered. The education campaign started over a month
after the rules came in and do not target drivers where filtering is
done most, city streets. It is a very low budget campaign compared to
past campaigns.

The education campaign for the new motorcycle lane filtering rules is to
initially run for six months and will start this week
with rural radio, 'pump TV' (televisions at petrol pumps), and social
media with metro radio to follow in the new year. As the campaign
progresses, based on the performance of the campaign, this may be
expanded to other channels. The content will include a video animation,
static images and an audio only (radio) advertisement.

The TOY RUN for Father Bob is on Sunday, December 13 in St Kilda.

https://youtu.be/HLnoBf8u5oI

The TOY RUN dry run is at LUNA PARK, 10.30 am on Sunday, November 29, 2015.
If you'd like to be a helper or a Marshal at the TOY RUN come along.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesperson
Independent Riders' Group (IRG)
PO Box 4330
Doncaster Heights  Vic  3109

SYDNEY CHARITY RIGHTS RIDE

G'day everyone,

Here are the final details for Sunday Nov 29 at Hickson Road at The Rocks in Sydney's CBD.

Ride Leaders from Hickson Road to NSW Parliament House and Art Gallery: Diggers Military Motorcycle Club

Police have given permission for us to gather from 9am and then ride, after the campaign launch ends at 11.30 am, up George Street to Bridge Street then Macquarie Street and around Parliament House twice and then breakup into our groups outside the NSW Art Gallery behind Parliament House and head off in different directions.

Charity group drop-offs after split up at the Art Gallery: 
 
Exodus Foundation at Ashfield.  Diggers MMC to lead a group there. They would like new tinned ham and sealed party food for Christmas Day, supermarket gift vouchers and new toys for kids.
  1. Mary Mac's Woy Woy. Mongols MC to lead a group there. They would like tinned food,clothing and blankets.
  2. Parramatta Mission: God Squad CMC to lead a group there. They would like Christmas gifts for people 25 years and over.
  3. Salvation Army Oasis Youth Centre Kings Cross: Brotherhood CMC will lead a group there. They would like $20 gift cards from somewhere like JB Hi Fi for young people 16-25.
There will be a sausage sizzle to raise funds for Barrister Wayne Baffsky and Kings Cross Bikers will have event and UMC t-shirts on sale for the same reason.

Please spread this information around via email, Facebook and websites ASAP so we can get at least 50 bikers with the appropriate gifts for each of the charity drop-offs.

Also please remember to listen to any instructions from the ride leaders, to stop at all red lights and follow any Police directions on the approved route.

See you on Sunday November 29.

Kind regards,

Greg Hirst
Brotherhood CMC


Saturday 14 November 2015

GOLD COAST FOOTPATH PARKING CAMPAIGN

THE GOLD COAST BULLETIN
Friday, November 13, 2015.

RIDERS WATCH THIS SPACE


Sunday 8 November 2015

SYDNEY CHARITY RIDE

Bikers' Campaign begins 
Sunday November 29!

Members and supporters of the  United Motorcycle Council (NSW) will gather in Hickson Road , The Rocks in Sydney from 9am on Nov 29 to collect gifts for the disadvantaged and to launch a campaign against prejudice by the authorities in their dealings with the motorcycling community in NSW.

With the move away from behaviour based policing towards a focus on appearance, riders from all types of clubs including 1%, Christian, military and social motorcycle clubs are being refused entry into a multitude  of licensed premises because of what they are wearing not because they behave badly!

The United Motorcycle Council is planning this to be the beginning of a series of events aimed at influencing public opinion and helping to encourage a move to evidenced based policing of society rather than one based on prejudice and negative stereotypes.

The UMC has also decided to make this ride a charity event and is asking riders to bring toys, blankets and tinned food to the launch and to participate in distributing these donations to various charity groups on the day. 

So far the following organisations have agreed to accept gifts:
  • Bill Crews and Exodus Foundation - Ashfield
  • Paul Moulds and Salvation Army - Kings Cross
  • Mary Macs Woy Woy
  • Parramatta Mission
At the launch representatives from some of these organisations will be present to personally thank the riders. Details of the preferred donations will be on the UMC NSW Facebook page and website early next week.

At 11.30 am after the launch riders will head en mass past NSW Parliament House in Macquarie Street and then split up to deliver donated items to their final destinations.
For further information check the UMC NSW Facebook and Website next week.

Greg Hirst
Brotherhood CMC

Wednesday 4 November 2015

AUSSIE TEMPS ON TELY

Series 4 Episode 6 : Sunday 3 pm on ONE in Sydney

We go for a ride to the top of the world with World on Wheels. Scott Ellis talks about TV and motorcycle riding. A Veterans MC Chaplain talks about faith and club life. We find a great baby boomer motorcycle museum in Tamworth and David Reidie looks back at the history of Harley City in Melbourne. Bear asks the question ‘Do we need a Bill of Rights in Australia’? Eelz fills us in on a butchers' code and Alan Kempster talks about motorcycle racing without an arm and a leg!

Make sure you check your local TV Guides for time variations in different states and territories plus weekly episode repeats.


Friday 30 October 2015

FIRST AID FOR MOTORCYCLISTS

If you ride then you definitely want to do this half day session – this is NOT a standard first aid course as it’s totally geared to riders. By the end of this advanced course you'll be competent in CPR, accident scene management, emergency helmet removal and road trauma injury treatment techniques. In the event you round a corner and come across a rider down you'll be glad you know what to do and so will they! BOOK ONLINE: 

www.firstaidformotorcyclists.com.au

TWO TOY RUNS

TWO TOY RUNS. Frankston, Vic and Newcastle,  NSW.


















https://www.facebook.com/Bikers-for-Kids-Newcastle-111037225658041/

 http://motorbikewriter.com/toy-run-father-bob/

Tuesday 27 October 2015

BATHURST CUSTOM BIKE SHOW - FEB 2016

RIDERS INVITATION

The Bathurst, NSW, Street and Custom Motorcycle Show is on again on the first Saturday in February in 2016.

With the Council closing off a main part of Russell Street again  it is expected there will be terrific mix of custom and street motorcycles plus displays from Taylor’s Motorcycle Services, Capital Harley Davidson, Beard Brothers Motorcycles, Bikers Australia, Temporary Australians, Brotherhood CMC as well as a number local motorcycle clubs. 

There will be live music, competition and rally awards plus trade stalls, a jumping castle and plenty of shade in the adjoining park for the whole family.

Hope you can make it.

Hirsty
Brotherhood CMC

TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS ON TV

TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS

Series 4 Episode 5 : Sunday 3 pm on ONE in Sydney.

We go for a ride up the Putty Road to the Grey Gum Cafe for the Inaugural Temporary Australians Ride and Bike Show. We find out how to adjust to some quirky Melbourne traffic conditions. Will fills us in on some firefighters who like to ride together and we check out a web cam custom in Hobart. Bikers from the Gong take us on a ride through the scenic Kangaroo Valley.We discover the importance of motorcycle friendly lawyers and Sue Walter briefs us on the Snowy River Ride and her son Steven.Plus we find out about one of the judges at the bike show at the Grey Gum Cafe.

Make sure you check your local TV Guides for time variations in different states and territories plus weekly episode repeats.

Thursday 22 October 2015

YOU TUBE CLIP

Heather Ellis, Father Bob and Bernie Bickerton.

https://youtu.be/HLnoBf8u5oI

Tuesday 20 October 2015

THEY JUST WON'T LEARN

This video is from 1962, 53 years later motorcycles and scooters are still ignored in regard to helping relieve traffic congestion !


Regards
Steve

CRANBOURNE GP RUN

October 17, 2015.

The Independent Riders Group stall at the Cranbourne GP Run.













































































I'm told the Police wanted a change in the rules of the run so that the bikes would all be herded to the left of the highway so cars could overtake the column. This would have reduced the exit width by half. From where I was the bikes were getting hot, riders were getting angry and the Cranbourne GP RUN took much longer to clear the main street than in previous years. The safest and most efficient way to move a large number of two and three wheelers from A to B is in one steady group. Marathons and fun runs, bicycle races and tours are not stopped to let car drivers through, why are motorcycle & scooter riders treated this way? 

TAC/SPOKES LEGENDS

October 14, 2015.

CARGO HALL 39
South Wharf,  Melbourne.

Wayne Gardner, Remmie Gardner, Mick Doohan and Troy Bayliss.


































Thursday 15 October 2015

OZ GP RUN

The weather for Cranbourne tomorrow (Oct. 17) looks to be dry and mild.

https://www.facebook.com/events/386107444932103/404472289762285/

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvT8VxXhorw&feature=youtu.be&t=35

Tuesday 13 October 2015

TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS

Series 4 Episode 3 : Sunday 2 pm on ONE in Sydney

The Veterans Motorcycle Club take us on their Anzac Day Ride. We discover what it takes for Matt Mingay and Lukey Luke to perform stunt bikes dances and how Matt’s young son is following his dad. Kellie from AMCN talks about her role as editor and find out what makes Powder Puff Racing tick. Hobart’s Titan Bike and Trike shows us a ‘Pimp my Ride’ special. We discover the biker friendly Parkville Tavern out side Perth. Homer explains where Marge is and why he rides Oztrikes. We talk to Mark Hinchcliffe about Motorbike Writer and discover why club life helps.

Make sure you check your local TV Guides for time variations in different states and territories plus weekly episode repeats
.

Wednesday 7 October 2015

MELBOURNE MEETING ON MCs ON FOOTPATHS

Given the RACV President's negative attitude to motorcycle & scooter parking on footpaths in Victoria in ROYALAUTO earlier this year and the surprise amendments to the otherwise very positive Melbourne Motorcycle Plan which we were not allowed to question or debate, it would be as well for the motorcycle community to keep its' guard up.

From memory, the amendments appeared on a screen at a Future Melbourne Committee meeting attended by all the city councilors and quite a few motorcycle & scooter riders. The long-standing rules of the meeting did not allow questions or debate. The Motorcycle Plan was voted in unanimously. More than a few riders were concerned that the amendment gave the CoM the power to ban motorcycle parking on narrower footpaths. The thin edge of the wedge???

The Independent Riders Group is happy to work with the CoM to solve a problem where there is a proven problem. BUT, will strongly oppose moves to ban footpath motorcycle parking where no problem is proven. The IRG supports more free on-street and off-street motorcycle & scooter parking and would like to see lockers introduced to encourage the use of protective clothing, especially for commuters.

The issue of motorcycle & scooter footpath parking is on the agenda for the Future Committee meeting next Tuesday, October 13, 2015. It's at the Melbourne Town Hall from 5.30 pm. There is a public gallery so riders should attend. I can't make it unfortunately.

A link to the agenda for the FMC meeting on 13 October is:

http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Meetings/CouncilMeetingAttachments/1089/OCT15%20FMC2%20AGENDA.pdf

A link to the report on motorcycle parking is:

http://www.melbourne.vic.gov.au/AboutCouncil/Meetings/Lists/CouncilMeetingAgendaItems/Attachments/12761/OCT15%20FMC2%20AGENDA%20ITEM%206.3.pdf

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne

TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS

Series 4 Episode 2 : Sunday 3 pm on ONE

We check out the new Melbourne Motorcycle Expo. Hirsty joins in the 25 year celebrations at the Bankstown Custom Motorcycle Show. Jonesy discovers a Barbarian Bobber and we find out why old Japanese bikes make some Perth bikers very happy. Adrian Wright talks about Harley Davidson’s new Street 500. We discover Exodus Racing and its drag racing journey. Plus we join the fun in the Baylisstic Scramble at the Melbourne Expo.

Make sure you check your local TV Guides for time variations in different states and territories plus weekly episode repeats.

Monday 5 October 2015

CRANBOURNE GP RUN - OCTOBER 17

The Cranbourne GP RUN is on Saturday, October 17, 2015. The Independent Riders Group has stand B3 in Bakewell Street off the main drag. Come and say hello. Membership is FREE!


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvT8VxXhorw&feature=youtu.be&t=35



The stand will operate from 8 am to 10 am when 10,000 riders will head off to Phillip Island. You don't have to go all the way to the Island to be part of this great event. This is one of the last big runs left in Australia.



The photo of Heather, Father Bob and Bernie at LUNA PARK will feature on the TOY RUN t-shirt. $30 each (plus pack & post $10 if needed). Proceeds go to the TOY RUN for Father Bob on Sunday, December 13, 2015 in St Kilda. We will have some for sale at the GP RUN.



Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne

www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup

Monday 28 September 2015

VIC TRAFFIC FILTERING LAW FROM NOV 2 2015


THE PURGE BEGINS

The tragic death of Andrea Lehane who was the victim of a hit & run collision in Carrum Downs, Victoria, police have begun a crackdown on motorised two-wheelers. No excuses for the cowardly thugs who ran away ....but

Maybe, if police had put in half this effort before that awful collision, Andrea Lehane would still be looking after her two kids.

Maybe if Frankston Council had provided a facility for kids to ride real motorbikes in a safe supervised environment, these hoons would not have been tearing around a car park.

http://www.heraldsun.com.au/leader/south-east/mornington-peninsula-police-seize-monkey-bike-charge-47-year-old-man/story-fngnvmhm-1227547639970

Damien
IRG

Sunday 27 September 2015

BLACK DOG RUN FATAL IN THE USA

G'day Damien, no doubt you've heard about the WA couple on the Black Dog Ride in the USA?

Here is a link to copy & paste to Facebook, with condolences and respects for our fellow Aussie riders involved.


http://motorbikewriter.com/tragedy-strikes-black-dog-ride-in-usa/


Cate 

Saturday 26 September 2015

HIT & RUN, CRIME & PUNISHMENT

THE MELBOURNE HERALD SUN EDITORIAL (26/9/2015) on the tragic death of a woman in Carrum Downs, Victoria, was all about crackdowns and punishment and "the monkey-bike menace".

The Independent Riders Group offers sincere sympathy to Andrea Lehane's loved ones.

Monkey bikes are toy motorcycles that can be bought online for as little as $100. Teenagers hooning in a shopping centre car park hit a 34-year-old mother of two as she walked on a pedestrian crossing. Her injuries were not survivable. The hoons did not stop. That is the biggest crime here.

There aren't many adults who can say they never behaved irresponsibly when they were teenagers, I certainly can't make that claim. But these youths, young men, took the cowards way out and fled leaving their victim to die. That's unforgivable. To make matters worse, they did not give themselves up until the public outcry made it impossible to continue to hide.

But the hoons shouldn't take all the blame for this death. Their parents must take some for failing to supervise the boys and to teach them that if you cause harm you stop, you try to make it right and you accept the consequences of your actions. They were old enough to know right from wrong.

Police have to take some for letting the monkey bike situation fester in spite of many complaints over many months. 

Government departments have to take some for failing to ban these dangerous toys as they ban other dangerous toys. Monkey bikes are not real motorcycles or even real mini bikes.

Local government across Victoria has to take some for allowing the mini bike and off-road bike club scene fail under difficult public liability insurance changes and impossible restrictions when responsible parents try to set up trail parks so kids can learn and ride under supervision, as in past decades. Councils set up skate parks in virtually every municipality. There are bicycle MX tracks and go kart circuits and pony clubs but mini bike clubs are rare. It's not fair to complain about kids on bikes when you shut down most of the places they can ride safely.

And, the media, in this case the Herald Sun, has to take some of the blame for not looking at the whole picture and reporting that the whole of our society has let "the monkey-bike menace" develop. The editorial is all about tracking and fining monkey bike riders and confiscating their bikes. I find this sad because I'm told the Herald Sun Editor is a motorcyclist himself. 

Motorcycling has produced many of the world's best competition riders. Outstanding sports men and women who are honoured overseas for representing their country but not given the recognition they deserve at home. Was there sporting potential among the boys who ran down Andrea Lehane?

The Phillip Island motorcycle grand prix carnival in October brings $60 million to the Island and surrounds according to Tourism Victoria. 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvT8VxXhorw&feature=youtu.be&t=35

Touring riders put and estimated $800 million into the Victorian economy every year. The average road rider pays as much to register & insure his/her bike as 4WD/SUV driver does. BUT, we can't afford to bring back trail parks so kids can learn to ride safe instead of hooning in shopping centre car parks.

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group



Monday 21 September 2015

TVNZ QUESTIONS???


TV NZ
MANAGEMENT

Please pass this email on to the appropriate person/office.

In September 2015 a court in Frankston, Victoria, Australia found that a motorcyclist had broken the law by attaching a camera to their helmet. The fine was $289 and 3 demerit points lost. The court reduced this to $150 but found the rider guilty nevertheless.

Motorcycle & scooter riders in Victoria have been pulled up by police many, many times and not booked for helmet cameras. In other Australian states helmet cameras are legal or tolerated. Some police forces use motorcycle helmet cameras to enforce in-car offences like mobile phone use and the footage is accepted as evidence in courts.

Bicyclists in Victoria are encouraged to use helmet cameras as a safety device. We are told the footage from bicyclists' helmet cameras is accepted as evidence in Victorian courts.

Given this generally benign attitude to helmet cameras in Victoria, we were surprised when this rider was booked. The case went to court no less than 6 times before the magistrate found an offence had been committed.

We understand that the rider was filmed by MOTORWAY PATROL, a New Zealand reality TV show. If this is true, the Victorian Highway Patrol Officer had to be aware of the TV crew in advance which begs the question, was this rider singled out to provide material for TVNZ and public relations advantage for the Victoria Police?

Did the rider sign a release?

How can we see the footage of the rider being booked for wearing a helmet camera?

The rider is considering challenging the Frankston Court Decision in the Supreme Court. We would very much appreciate TV NZ cooperating in supplying the information and vision requested. (The IRG does not represent the rider.)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvT8VxXhorw&feature=youtu.be&t=35

Feedback Form

http://tvnz.co.nz/tvnz-corporate-comms/feedback-form-4935039?ref=emailfriend
 
Damien Codognotto OAM Spokesman Independent Riders' Group (IRG)

PO Box 4330
Doncaster Heights  Vic  3109

www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup

Hello,

I am the producer of Highway Patrol. The incident you mentioned was shot by this programme, not Motorway Patrol.

We don’t release footage to members of the public, nor do we discuss individual cases with members of the public.

Sorry I can’t be of any assistance.

Regards,

Mary



Tuesday 15 September 2015

HELMET CAMERAS IN VIC COURT

MELBOURNE AUSTRALIA

From ABC Radio news. Wednesday, September 16, 2015.

Please share/twitter/email this ASAP.

Helmet law case in Frankston Court today. Maurice Blackburn Lawyers' Malcolm Cumming representing the rider issued a fine for a helmet camera in Victoria.

Can anyone get there to sit in the public gallery and take notes?

Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesperson
Independent Riders' Group (IRG)
PO Box 4330
Doncaster Heights  Vic  3109

www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup 

Malcolm Cumming at Maurice Blackburn in Melbourne  with  Damien Codognotto OAM Spokesman for the Independent Riders Group.

http://www.magistratescourtvic.ozehosting.com.au/cgi-bin/mc_crim_rec.pl?casenum=E12548176&date=16092015


Friday 11 September 2015

IRG VIDEO NEWSLETTERS

You can see more IRG video newsletters by Bernie Bickerton at

www.independentridersgroup.com 

Tuesday 8 September 2015

CRANBOURNE GP RUN 2015

Please take a couple of minutes to look at this short Youtube clip then pass it on to as many riders as you can via twitter, facebook, email, whatever.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uvT8VxXhorw&feature=youtu.be&t=35