TALKBACK: 1300 303 468.
TEXT: 0467 842 722.
Please pass this on.
http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-04/revved-up-riders/
Damien
IRG
Monday, 29 September 2014
7 AM OCTOBER 1 BALLARAT RADIO
There will be an interview on ABC RADIO Ballarat in Victoria on Wednesday, October 1, 2014. It will be on the state's compulsory conspicuity laws. The Ballarat Courier newspaper ran my letter to the editor on the subject so the local radio station rang me to set up an interview on the subject.
TALKBACK: 1300 303 468.
TEXT: 0467 842 722.
Please pass this on.
http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-04/revved-up-riders/
TALKBACK: 1300 303 468.
TEXT: 0467 842 722.
Please pass this on.
http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-04/revved-up-riders/
Sunday, 28 September 2014
THE LATEST ON VIC TOY RUNS
PLEASE ADD THESE TOYR
RUNS TO YOUR WEBSITE. IF YOU HAVE DETAILS ON A TOY RUN ANYWHERE IN AUSTRALIA OR NZ SEND US THE DETAILS AND WE WILL PUT THEM ON THIS BLOG, OUR FACEBOOK PAGES AND THE WEBSITE.
Damien
IRG
Australian TOY RUNs
began in Perth, Newcastle and Melbourne in the 1970s. In 2014 there are more
than 50 in cities and towns across OZ. If you want to make a positive statement
about being Australian, make the effort, grab an Aussie flag and fly it at a TOY
RUN. Help us get the best things about Christmas in Australia and Australian
motorcycling into the main stream media.
THE
PENINSULA TOY RUN. Frankston, Vic.
Saturday, December 6,
2014. Includes a memorial for John Smollen. TOY RUN organiser
for many years who, sadly, took his last ride. Departs Frankston Pier for
Rosebud at 10 am sharp. www.peninsulatoyrun.com
MELBOURNE
TOY RUN FOR FATHER BOB. Four assembly areas
so far. Sunday, December
7. Destination: 91 Victoria Avenue, Albert Park. Melway map 2J
reference J 8. Family and friends not riding can go directly to Father Bob's to
watch the bikes arrive about noon.
Albert Park has great
eateries and Jock's ice creamery is a must for kids. The beach is at the end of
the road too. Spend your money locally and keep local businesses happy. I'm
having lunch at the Beach Hotel on the corner of Victoria Avenue
and Beaconsfield Parade.
WERRIBEE
ASSEMBLY AREA. Chatterbox Coffee
Shop. 63 Watton Street, Werribee. Melway map 205 reference J 8. Run leader is
Dean. Assemble from 9.30 am. No fees. No ride registration. Just roll up. Please
do not overtake on the run.
EPPING
ASSEMBLY AREA. The BP Servo corner
cooper Street and Scanlon Drive. Melway map 181 reference D 11. Run leader is
John. Assemble from 9.30 am. No fees. No ride registration. Just roll
up.
MORDIALLOC
ASSEMBLY AREA. The inbound service
lanes in the main street near the top round about. Melway map 92 reference E 1.
Run leader is Slim. Assemble from 9.30 am. No fees. No ride registration. Just
roll up. Departs at 11 am. The route is up the Nepean Highway, left at South
Road, right at Beach Road then right into Victoria
Avenue.
CRANBOURNE
ASSEMBLY AREA. The Hungry Jack's
car park. To be confirmed. Run leaders Barbara & Tony. Assemble from 9.30
am. No fees. No ride registration. Just roll up.
This is a special
year for Barbara & Tony. Barbara has organised 30 annual TOY RUNs. The route
is up the Monash Freeway taking the Batman Avenue off ramp, across the Swan
Street Bridge and left on to Ferrars Street from City Road then right into
Bridport Street which becomes Victoria Avenue.
GEELONG HOG TOY RUN. Sunday, December 14.
Assemble on the Geelong waterfront. www.geelonghog.com.au .
GIFTS. New toys and clothes
do a lot of good. Pre-loved soft toys can be a problem for charities because
they have to pay for them to be cleaned. Tinned food means a person who might go
hungry at Christmas gets a feed. And, of course money is most welcome. Even a
single coin makes a difference. Lots of single coins make a big difference.
SAFETY. All road laws apply.
Please do not overtake on the ride. If you want to leave the run, indicate left,
pull over when it's safe and wait for the column to pass before moving
on.
For more details use
these links:
www.damiencodognottooam.blogspot.com
www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup
www.facebook.com/northernregisterirg
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=9dQxpj9foD8
Saturday, 27 September 2014
NEW LAWS IN VIC.
From the Melbourne Herald Sun?
If you are coming to the OZ GP at Phillip Island beware the statewide police blitz on bikes. A Dandenong Highway Patrol officer was quoted in the local paper saying. "My officers will be pulling up just about every bike they see."
It's already started. We are getting complaints about roadside lectures for doing absolutely nothing wrong. It's happened to me earlier this year. See earlier blog. And, if a rider queries a constable in this sort of situation the policeman will, too often, look for something utterly trivial to book the rider for.
The following Q & A was sent to me.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
If you are coming to the OZ GP at Phillip Island beware the statewide police blitz on bikes. A Dandenong Highway Patrol officer was quoted in the local paper saying. "My officers will be pulling up just about every bike they see."
It's already started. We are getting complaints about roadside lectures for doing absolutely nothing wrong. It's happened to me earlier this year. See earlier blog. And, if a rider queries a constable in this sort of situation the policeman will, too often, look for something utterly trivial to book the rider for.
The following Q & A was sent to me.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
Q. What have you done about
your pledge to work towards resolving the current inequity that exists between
motorcyclists and other road users where motorcyclists are not detected when
committing traffic offences due to the lack of a front numberplate?
A.
On August 2 this year, Victoria Police announced a tender process to deliver an
upgrade to their mobile camera technology. Within the scope of this tender is
the evaluation of technology that will capture front as well as rear licence
plates.
Q. What have you done about
increasing the penalty for obscured numberplates?
A.
VicRoads is currently working with Victoria Police on a project looking at
appropriate penalties for motorcyclists who do not display numberplates that are
identifiable. We expect this project to be completed by the end of 2014.
Q. What have you done about
encouraging the Federal Government to introduce an Australian Design Rule for
ABS to be fitted on all new motorcycles sold in Australia?
A.
Consultation is continuing with the Federal Government on the requirement for
implementing an Australian Design Rule for Anti-lock Braking Systems (ABS) on
motorcycles
Victoria
will contribute funding to a project being undertaken by Monash University
Accident Research Centre into the likely costs and benefits of introducing this
standard on a national basis,
Q. What have you done about
introducing a graduated licensing system for motorcyclists to help beginners
develop critical riding skills under safe conditions?
A.
Learner and newly-licensed motorcyclists will also have a safer start on the
roads, with the phasing in of the new Graduated Licensing System, 1 October
2014.
This
involves new or extended requirements for learners and newly licensed riders,
including zero blood alcohol a ban on mobile phone use extended from 12 months
to three years.
In
a move to improve their visibility, novice, or newly licensed motorcyclists,
will have to have their headlights on at all time, while learners will be
required to wear high visibility vests.
The
second stage of the rollout of the motorcycle GLS involves a new on-road test
and enhanced training, which will come into effect from late 2015.
Q. What have you done about
developing new education materials that highlight to motorcyclists the benefits
of wearing protective clothing?
A.
The TAC will investigate the need to redevelop its existing ‘Get Your Gear On’
brochure on protective clothing.
New
information to be included in the brochure will be informed by the protective
clothing testing pilot program. The pilot program, which is almost finished,
involves testing the protective quality of motorcycle gear against the European
standard.
The
TAC will continue to promote the importance of wearing protective clothing at a
number of motorcycling events including the Australian Moto Grand Prix, the
Motorcycle Expo and the Victorian Road Race Championships.
Q. What have you done about
introducing a mandatory requirement for motorcyclists and scooter riders to wear
boots that are at least ankle high?
A.
VicRoads is working towards finalising the requirements for mandatory footwear
for motorcyclists and scooter riders, following consultation with motorcycle
groups.
Thursday, 25 September 2014
RACV VOTE IS IMPORTANT
To motorcycle & scooter riders who are in the RACV. Please share this. Get it as many riders as you can, any way you can.
INDEPENDENT RIDERS GROUP MEMBER Rod Brown has been keeping an eye on the situation at the RACV. There are five candidates running for election to the RACV Board.
Two are already on the Board. Three are not. These three have pro motorcycle & scooter policies.
They are JOHN PRESLEY, AMANDA STONE & TRENT McCARTHY.
In my opinion, it is your interest as an RACV member and as a motorcycle or scooter rider to vote two of three non Board members on to the RACV Board. You can only vote for two candidates.
The three to vote for are John Presley (What he offers is in an earlier blog. Scroll down.), Amanda Stone (See Below) and Trent McCarthy.
I spoke to John and Amanda at length and I think they are good value.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
On Tue, Sep 23, 2014 at 9:30 PM, Amanda Stone <amandastone@bigpond.com> wrote
Amanda Stone and Trent McCarthy
If elected to the RACV Board we would promote integrated and
sustainable transport planning, where the use of road space is maximised for all
modes, including bicycles, public transport and motorcycles & scooters.
Motorcycles are an efficient and more sustainable form of motorised transport
than the private car and play an important role in reducing congestion, moving
more people, and using the road space more effectively. As fuels change into the
future, motorcycles will become an even more sustainable form of private
transport.
We would advocate for:
· a seat at the RACV table for motorcycles
and scooters, consultation on issues relevant to these modes, and access to RACV
services, including
representation in Royal Auto
· continued focus on safety for cyclists,
motorcyclists and scooter users
· recognition of the role these forms of
transport play in a more sustainable and efficient transport mix
· ongoing review of regulations surrounding
use of road space to better cater for cyclists, scooters and motorcycle
users.
Authorised by Amanda Stone and Trent
McCarthy.
TOY RUN NEWS FLASH 1
THE MELBOURNE TOY RUN for Father Bob in 2014 will include four rides to Father Bob's in Albert Park. Werribee, Epping, Mordialloc and Cranbourne.
The TOY RUN assembly area in Mordialloc has been moved to make way for a triathalon in Beach Road. Riders will now assemble in the inbound service lane of the main street of Mordialloc near the top round about. This assembly area looks better and has coffee shops. The original site is not far away and triathalon officials will be informed to direct motorcycles & scooters to us.
TOY RUN 2014 assembly area, main street Mordialloc.
We will assemble in Mordialloc from 10 am and depart at 11 am.
Slim will lead the Mordialloc run.
The new route to Father Bob's in Albert Park will be up the Nepean Highway to a left at South Road to a right at Beach Road and on to a right at Victoria Avenue in Albert Park.
If riders buy a tin of food a week between now and the TOY RUN, you'll have at least 10 cans of tucker that could be Christmas dinner for someone who might go hungry but for Father Bob.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=9dQxpj9foD8
The TOY RUN assembly area in Mordialloc has been moved to make way for a triathalon in Beach Road. Riders will now assemble in the inbound service lane of the main street of Mordialloc near the top round about. This assembly area looks better and has coffee shops. The original site is not far away and triathalon officials will be informed to direct motorcycles & scooters to us.
TOY RUN 2014 assembly area, main street Mordialloc.
We will assemble in Mordialloc from 10 am and depart at 11 am.
Slim will lead the Mordialloc run.
The new route to Father Bob's in Albert Park will be up the Nepean Highway to a left at South Road to a right at Beach Road and on to a right at Victoria Avenue in Albert Park.
If riders buy a tin of food a week between now and the TOY RUN, you'll have at least 10 cans of tucker that could be Christmas dinner for someone who might go hungry but for Father Bob.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_detailpage&v=9dQxpj9foD8
Wednesday, 24 September 2014
TOY RUN NEWS FLASH 3
THE FAMOUS CRANBOURNE TOY RUN will come to Father Bob's on Sunday, December 7, 2014.
For thirty years the CRANBOURNE TOY RUN has been organised by Barabara Maggs and Tony Jenner. That's right 30, three zero years. This is a 100% volunteer event.
The MELBOURNE TOY RUN is a fantastic Christmas tradition for our city. Be a part of it. No ride registration or fees, just roll up to one of the four assembly areas. There are also rides from Werribee, Epping and Mordialloc. On the rides, please do not overtake.
The assembly area is in Cranbourne, probably in the Hungry Jack's car park, but that's to be confirmed. I'll keep you informed.
The ride will head up the Monash Freeway taking the Batman Avenue off ramp, the Swan Street Bridge and round to Ferrars Street in South Melbourne. Police will control the right turn from Ferrars Street into Bridport Street which becomes Victoria Avenue where Father Bob's is.
So there you go. Start stockpiling your tinned food for the CRANBOURNE TOY RUN now.
Confirmation and details as they come to hand.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
For thirty years the CRANBOURNE TOY RUN has been organised by Barabara Maggs and Tony Jenner. That's right 30, three zero years. This is a 100% volunteer event.
The MELBOURNE TOY RUN is a fantastic Christmas tradition for our city. Be a part of it. No ride registration or fees, just roll up to one of the four assembly areas. There are also rides from Werribee, Epping and Mordialloc. On the rides, please do not overtake.
The assembly area is in Cranbourne, probably in the Hungry Jack's car park, but that's to be confirmed. I'll keep you informed.
The ride will head up the Monash Freeway taking the Batman Avenue off ramp, the Swan Street Bridge and round to Ferrars Street in South Melbourne. Police will control the right turn from Ferrars Street into Bridport Street which becomes Victoria Avenue where Father Bob's is.
So there you go. Start stockpiling your tinned food for the CRANBOURNE TOY RUN now.
Confirmation and details as they come to hand.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
TOY RUN FACEBOOK PAGE
IRG MEMBERSHIP
FORM
TOY RUN VIDEO NEWSLETTER
TOY RUN NEWS FLASH 2
THE PENINSULA TOY RUN - SATURDAY, DECEMBER 6, 2014.
Dear DamienI am writing to you to inform you that the Peninsula Toy Run will take place on 6 December, 2014 leaving Frankston Pier for Rosebud at 10.00am sharp and was wondering if you could promote this amongst your members.Should you require any background information please let me know and I will forward.As part of the proceedings this year, there will be the unveilling of a memorial plaque for John Smollen (founder of the Peninsula Toy Run in 2001) by the Mayor of Frankston at the Pier Car Park, so I ask that everyone be there by 8.30am for the formal part of the morning.The Peninsula Toy Run now has its own Web Site, it can be found at peninsulatoyrun.com, you will also locate the Toy Run Flyer at that address.Hoping to see as many of you as possible on the 6 December, 2014.Phil MatthewsOrganiser/Ride LeaderPeninsula Toy Run
www.independentridersgroup.com
www.facebook.com/independentridersgroup
Sunday, 21 September 2014
RADIO HIRSTY
On Tuesday at 7pm on Ride :
- Chips from Kings Cross Bikers announces the details of Animal OAM
- Former World 500cc Champ Mick Doohan reflects on the run away success of Marc Marquez in Moto GP
- We find out how Moto 3 star Jack Miller has made history this week
- We look at plans at Phillip Island to celebrate 100 years since the first Australian Motorcycle Grand Prix at Bathurst
- Terry O'Neil updates us on a successful round of the Australasian Superbike Championship at Wakefield Park and find our why that racetrack is one of the best for spectators
- We preview next years 75 th Anniversary at Sturgis in South Dakota in 2015 and the Aussies already planning to go
- Plus a mixture of news and music.
Proudly sponsored by Fraser Motorcycles Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong
,Melbourne and Perth
and Skillmaster Motorcycle Services.
Listen online via www.alive905.com.au
Thursday, 18 September 2014
VOTE RACV
ATTENTION: Motorbike and scooter
riders
who are members of the RACV
VOTE 1 for Presley, J – RACV Board Candidate
The extra
“Safety Tax” of $75.00 for vulnerable road users, namely motorbikes, needs to
be redressed – is there equity with other road users?
Motorbike
and scooter riders are legitimate road users and are not represented in the
RACV Magazine. RACV needs to recognize this and provide more “balance,” not
just sell insurance and holidays!
Motorbikes
and scooters decrease transport pollution/congestion and parking problems in
Melbourne compared with cars.
There needs
to be a more balanced perspective for all road users, with more mutual respect
for each other.
I have a
passion for motorbikes. In my younger years I rode an off-road motorcycle
around Eildon. So I can appreciate firsthand the enjoyment, fun and economical
transport a motorbike affords one.
The Independent Riders’ Group needs
recognition and representation in the RACV Magazine. Motorbike and scooter riders
are a forgotten transport user.
I stand
for:
·
Protecting
and enhancing equity for all forms of transport – motorbikes, scooters, cyclists
and motorists. All have a right to co-exist.
·
Providing
more quality RACV services to all members.
·
Extending
dedicated motorbike, scooter and cyclist bike lanes across Melbourne for the
benefit of all commuters.
·
Promoting
transparent, open and democratic principles for the RACV. I wish to join the
RACV Board and maintain/introduce high ethical standards and forward thinking
policies.
I believe I
am the only independent candidate that is committed to take real action on all
forms of transport issues with equity/fairness for all. The RACV needs new
transport policies with fresh ideas and practical transport solutions.
VOTING CLOSES AT 5 PM
TUESDAY, 7TH OCTOBER 2014
Monday, 15 September 2014
VIC POLICE Q & A
If you have a question around law enforcement that you don't know the answer, then ask us! We'll do our best to respond to the most common questions.
Ask now via our online form:
I wrote. "Snr Sgt Roberts, Dandenong Hwy Patrol said in the Star local paper that his officers would "pull over just about every motorbike they see on the way to the Phillip Is. GP. Why? The PIGP generates $60 million a year. Why alienate law-abiding tourists?
Damien
IRG
NSW MC FIRST AID COURSE
|
Sunday, 14 September 2014
HIRSTY'S HAIR WAVES
On Tuesday at 7pm on Ride :
- Craig Fletcher, General Manager of Motorsport for the Australian Grand Prix Corporation looks forward to an exciting Moto GP at Phillip Island after last weekends results at San Marino.
- We get an update from Kings Cross Bikers on Animal's condition.
- Ozbikes Bob Skol fills us in on their latest charity bike competition.
- Henri De Gorter reveals some bad news for community television and hence the future of motorcycle television.
- We update on a moving Remembrance Service and Ride at the Brotherhood CMC clubhouse on Sunday.
- And we discuss remaining filming dates for Series 3 of Temporary Australians and the start of filming for Series 4.
- Plus a mixture of news and music.
Proudly sponsored by Fraser Motorcycles Sydney, Newcastle, Wollongong
,Melbourne and Perth
and Skillmaster Motorcycle Services.
Listen online via www.alive905.com.au
Saturday, 13 September 2014
ABS & MCs
IN 2014 THERE ARE 780,174 ROAD-REGISTERED MOTORCYCLES & SCOOTERS IN AUSTRALIA.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics the number of road-registered bikes on our roads has gone up 25% since 2009. That's the biggest increase of any vehicle type in OZ. Over the same period the percentage of cars (passenger vehicles) in the vehicle fleet fell.
So bikes are more popular and it's a steady increase, not a flash in the pan. And, car drivers are still the main cause of vulnerable road user deaths and injuries.
And, there are proven benefits to ALL road users from a healthy percentage of vehicles being powered two-wheelers used safely on our roads.
Therefore, why is VicRoads/TAC/police treating the Victorian motorcycle & scooter community so badly? No real consultation, bogus research, bad safety advice to Ministers, restrictive laws, discriminatory taxes, unfair blitzes on tourists and commuters and contempt for the recommendations of the Parliamentary Inquiry into motorcycle & scooter safety.
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/9309.0
Go see your local MPs and candidates for the November 29, 2014 state election.
www.parliament.vic.gov.au/members/results
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics the number of road-registered bikes on our roads has gone up 25% since 2009. That's the biggest increase of any vehicle type in OZ. Over the same period the percentage of cars (passenger vehicles) in the vehicle fleet fell.
So bikes are more popular and it's a steady increase, not a flash in the pan. And, car drivers are still the main cause of vulnerable road user deaths and injuries.
And, there are proven benefits to ALL road users from a healthy percentage of vehicles being powered two-wheelers used safely on our roads.
Therefore, why is VicRoads/TAC/police treating the Victorian motorcycle & scooter community so badly? No real consultation, bogus research, bad safety advice to Ministers, restrictive laws, discriminatory taxes, unfair blitzes on tourists and commuters and contempt for the recommendations of the Parliamentary Inquiry into motorcycle & scooter safety.
http://www.abs.gov.au/ausstats/abs@.nsf/mf/9309.0
Go see your local MPs and candidates for the November 29, 2014 state election.
www.parliament.vic.gov.au/members/results
BICYCLE ID
I have to say that I'm generally opposed to new laws and regulations when they just add to red tape and give police another excuse to fine us.
However, the disproportionate amount of money and resources lavished on the cycling community by all levels of government, the favourable media coverage and now a VicRoads/MUARC survey which suggests bicycles could have their own set of road laws, not just legal allowances for the mode of transport make my blood boil.
These recommendations according to the media, include the possibility, taken seriously by some, that push bike riders should be permitted to treat red lights as give way signs! I wonder how the family & friends of the old man on the pedestrian crossing, killed by a speeding bicyclist on Beach Road, Melbourne, a few years back, feel about that?
Having said that, I do think bicycle riders should have to identify themselves after an offence and should be subject to the same laws (with a few exceptions) as other road users. Whether that requires them to carry photo ID or have some ID on their bikes is up for debate, but I reckon too often bicyclists pulled up for an offence, give a false name and pedal off smirking.
It's a difficult question. freedom vs law & order. Bicyclists get a lot of freedom while motorcycle & scooter riders get law & order overkill. Both may be counterproductive. One thing I think is obvious, VicRoads is biased and the Victorian Roads Minister, Terry Mulder MP is too gutless to do his job and manage his department.
Anyway, Slim put a petition up. Think about it.
http://www.change.org/p/the-hon-terry-mulder-mp-minister-for-roads-transport-vic-force-cyclists-to-display-an-identification-plate?recruiter=27021609&utm_campaign=mailto_link&utm_medium=email&utm_source=share_petition
However, the disproportionate amount of money and resources lavished on the cycling community by all levels of government, the favourable media coverage and now a VicRoads/MUARC survey which suggests bicycles could have their own set of road laws, not just legal allowances for the mode of transport make my blood boil.
These recommendations according to the media, include the possibility, taken seriously by some, that push bike riders should be permitted to treat red lights as give way signs! I wonder how the family & friends of the old man on the pedestrian crossing, killed by a speeding bicyclist on Beach Road, Melbourne, a few years back, feel about that?
Having said that, I do think bicycle riders should have to identify themselves after an offence and should be subject to the same laws (with a few exceptions) as other road users. Whether that requires them to carry photo ID or have some ID on their bikes is up for debate, but I reckon too often bicyclists pulled up for an offence, give a false name and pedal off smirking.
It's a difficult question. freedom vs law & order. Bicyclists get a lot of freedom while motorcycle & scooter riders get law & order overkill. Both may be counterproductive. One thing I think is obvious, VicRoads is biased and the Victorian Roads Minister, Terry Mulder MP is too gutless to do his job and manage his department.
Anyway, Slim put a petition up. Think about it.
http://www.change.org/p/the-hon-terry-mulder-mp-minister-for-roads-transport-vic-force-cyclists-to-display-an-identification-plate?recruiter=27021609&utm_campaign=mailto_link&utm_medium=email&utm_source=share_petition
Thursday, 11 September 2014
ABC RADIO - SEP 12 2014
Jon Faine ABC local radio 774 talking about it; been on 3AW - interview with
Holgate from VicRoads this morning, also heard on ABC news.
http://www.3aw.com.au/blogs/3aw-breakfast-blog/new-bike-rules-under-consideration/20140912-3fes6.html
Article in https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/better-conditions/2793/
More bikes make riders safer
http://www.3aw.com.au/blogs/3aw-breakfast-blog/new-bike-rules-under-consideration/20140912-3fes6.html
Article in https://www.bicyclenetwork.com.au/general/better-conditions/2793/
More bikes make riders safer
1 July 2014. A major
new study into bike safety has further confirmed that the more bikes on the
street, the safer it is—not just for bike riders, but for all road
users.
VicRoads had a MUARC survey done 2008 I think?
Cate :-)
Remember the MUARC (road safety???) survey that asked motorcycle and scooter riders what type of relationship they were in? Married, defacto single etc. If they had a high fat diet? If they did home handyman work? And, astoundingly, if they owned a gun?!? These questions were excused by saying they were an internationally used way to assess risk taking behaviour. It looks like this was a Queensland set of questions that had been read by some folk overseas. Anyway, how these questions relate to the safe use of a motorcycle mor scooter on Victoria is still a mystery. It would be very interesting to compare the bicycle survey with the motorbike one.
Damien
Independent Riders Group
Wednesday, 10 September 2014
TEMPORARY AUSTRALIANS SERIES 3
Media and Rider
Alert
Series 3 of Temporary Australians airs on free to air channel ONE, part of the TEN Network, from Sunday October 26 at 3pm nationally (check your local guides for repeats).
This series will show some great riding around Hobart, Perth, Darwin, Cairns and the coast south of Geelong as well as dealing with important issues such as the anti-rights laws in Queensland and the state of motorcycling in Victoria plus we find out what it is like to ride at the Isle of Man before race day and discover what it is like to ride on the roads in Vietnam.
Jonesy comes up with some more 'Sleds to have in our Sheds' and Hirsty tracks down some more Christian bikers. We test ride some of the 2015 Harley Davidsons, there are a few celebrities, drag bikes and superbikes all showing the passionate diversity of the Aussie motorcycle culture.
Check www.temporaryaustralians.com.au for episode details from October 1.
Series 3 of Temporary Australians airs on free to air channel ONE, part of the TEN Network, from Sunday October 26 at 3pm nationally (check your local guides for repeats).
This series will show some great riding around Hobart, Perth, Darwin, Cairns and the coast south of Geelong as well as dealing with important issues such as the anti-rights laws in Queensland and the state of motorcycling in Victoria plus we find out what it is like to ride at the Isle of Man before race day and discover what it is like to ride on the roads in Vietnam.
Jonesy comes up with some more 'Sleds to have in our Sheds' and Hirsty tracks down some more Christian bikers. We test ride some of the 2015 Harley Davidsons, there are a few celebrities, drag bikes and superbikes all showing the passionate diversity of the Aussie motorcycle culture.
Check www.temporaryaustralians.com.au for episode details from October 1.
Monday, 8 September 2014
MORE PART TIME WORK
Mike Hanlon wants a writer. If you can't do it,
please pass this on to someone who may be able to.
"I'm looking for
a motorcycle writer for Gizmag - someone who is good with researching and
writing about old/rare bikes (and old and rare cars for that matter) and when I
saw this I wondered, given your extraordinary circle of contacts, if you knew
anyone who might fit the bill????"
You can contact Mike at
You can contact Mike at
Damien
IRG
PRO BIKE SENATOR
There is a new Senator in Canberra. He rides. He makes sense. Certainly 10,000% better for us than nanny state Napthine's government in Victoria.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTBkMmUkWFQ
Victorians vote on November 29, 2014. I personally can't vote liberal this time. Baillieu/Napthine have done too much damage to our right to ride.
Go see you MP and local media. Take this link and get it up on the computer in the electoral office. Demand the TAC tax is abolished and VicRoads conspicuity laws are stopped.
Damien
IRG
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UTBkMmUkWFQ
Victorians vote on November 29, 2014. I personally can't vote liberal this time. Baillieu/Napthine have done too much damage to our right to ride.
Go see you MP and local media. Take this link and get it up on the computer in the electoral office. Demand the TAC tax is abolished and VicRoads conspicuity laws are stopped.
Damien
IRG
Saturday, 6 September 2014
PART TIME WORK ON MAG??????
The Motorcycle Advisory Group (MAG) replaced the
Victorian Motorcycle Advisory Council (VMAC).
VMAC was set up to ensure the Roads Minister of the
day got unbiased, expert advice on motorcycle & scooter
matters.
MAG is overdue for review. VicRoads have delayed
the review of MAG until after the state election on Novemeber 29. That means
less than three weeks before the public service celebrates Christmas with a
self-induced coma for six weeks. This is not good for reviews or motorcycle
& scooter rider representation.
The 2012 Parliamentary Inquiry into motorcycle
& scooter safety was in favour of a more divers membership of MAG and
greater involvement of two-wheel stakeholders with
VicRoads/TAC/police.
MAG meets four or five times a year for a few hours
on a week day usually at VicRoads in Kew. Members are paid per meeting. Probably
$150 a time but it's hard to get accurate data from VicRoads. If you have to
travel they probably meet some expenses.
Anyway, the more genuine riders there are on MAG
the better off we all are. Why not apply? The worst they can say is
NO.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne.
LETTER FROM THE GOVERNOR
In March 2014, I wrote to the Governor of Victoria, The Hon Alex Chernov AC QC, as a Victorian citizen, as a member of the RACV and as Spokesman for the Independent Riders Group.
I asked Governor Chernov to talk to Premier Napthine about his promise to abolish the TAC tax and to ask the RACV directors to change their policy from one of support for the unfair tax, to one in favour of abolishing the tax.
As Governor, he could not assist in abolishing the TAC tax. It may be that he can help us in his role as Patron of the RACV.
In any case more people in power know that the Parliamentary Road Safety Committee, the VACC, the vast majority of Victorians who ride road motorcycles & scooters want this discriminatory tax gone. And they know that Premiers Baillieu and now Napthine both promised, repeatedly and in writing, to rid us of the TAC tax.
There is a state election in November. Go see your MP.
www.parliament.vic.gov.au/members/results
Watch your local media for information on the new electoral boundaries and the candidates you can vote for. Bear in mind the current government has done motorcycle & scooter riders no favours in spite of promises from opposition.
I asked Governor Chernov to talk to Premier Napthine about his promise to abolish the TAC tax and to ask the RACV directors to change their policy from one of support for the unfair tax, to one in favour of abolishing the tax.
As Governor, he could not assist in abolishing the TAC tax. It may be that he can help us in his role as Patron of the RACV.
In any case more people in power know that the Parliamentary Road Safety Committee, the VACC, the vast majority of Victorians who ride road motorcycles & scooters want this discriminatory tax gone. And they know that Premiers Baillieu and now Napthine both promised, repeatedly and in writing, to rid us of the TAC tax.
There is a state election in November. Go see your MP.
www.parliament.vic.gov.au/members/results
Watch your local media for information on the new electoral boundaries and the candidates you can vote for. Bear in mind the current government has done motorcycle & scooter riders no favours in spite of promises from opposition.
Wednesday, 3 September 2014
POLICE REPEL TWO-WHEEL TOURISTS STORY 2
The response to Snr Sgt Roberts threat to have his officers "pull over just about every motorbike they see" in spring and on their way to the Phillip Island GP should be on this link today September 4, 2014.
The OZ GP RUN is on the Saturday in mid October before the Moto GP on The Island. * to 10 thousand bikes form a column in the main street of Cranbourne for the run to Phillip Island. It is one of the last great mass rides left in Australia and truly awe-inspiring. Whether you just go on the run or come up from The Island to ride back down in this huge column, it is something you have to do at least once in your riding life.
http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-04/revved-up-riders/
Damien Codognotto OAM
IRG
TOY RUN - Dec 7, 2014.
The OZ GP RUN is on the Saturday in mid October before the Moto GP on The Island. * to 10 thousand bikes form a column in the main street of Cranbourne for the run to Phillip Island. It is one of the last great mass rides left in Australia and truly awe-inspiring. Whether you just go on the run or come up from The Island to ride back down in this huge column, it is something you have to do at least once in your riding life.
http://cranbournenews.starcommunity.com.au/news/2014-09-04/revved-up-riders/
Damien Codognotto OAM
IRG
TOY RUN - Dec 7, 2014.
2013
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoJvui8viW4
2014
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7NcN59qKUw
TOY RUN MELBOURNE - DEC 7 2014
The TOY RUN for Father Bob will be held on Sunday, December 7, 2014. In the tradition of the TOY RUNS we started in Melbourne in 1978, this is a truly volunteer event for a great charity.
Rides will head for Father Bob's that Sunday from Mordialloc, Epping and Werribee. No registration or fees just roll up. All welcome.
Gifts can be toys, clothes or tinned food. Donatations acn be as little as a single coin. It all helps.
From Father Bob's in Albert Park many riders go to one of the many eateries in the area or head off to Christmas Parties like Zorros.
Rides will head for Father Bob's that Sunday from Mordialloc, Epping and Werribee. No registration or fees just roll up. All welcome.
Gifts can be toys, clothes or tinned food. Donatations acn be as little as a single coin. It all helps.
From Father Bob's in Albert Park many riders go to one of the many eateries in the area or head off to Christmas Parties like Zorros.
2013
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZoJvui8viW4
2014
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p7NcN59qKUw
Put it on your calendar now.
Damien Codognotto OAM
IRG
SEMINAR ON YOU TUBE
The Future of Motorcycling Seminar in Melbourne, Australia. July 2014.
In conjunction with the Vicorian Scooter Riders Association and the Freedom Riders of Australia.
First speaker: Steve Bardsley - VSRA
Last Speaker. Shadow Minister for Roads & TAC Luke Donnellan MP (Labor)
Minister for Roads Mulder MP (Liberal) was invited but did not respond.
Thanks to John Liberman from the Freedom Riders for organising the ride in, the room and the PA.
Thanks The Bernie Bickerton for the video.
Greg Hirst from Temporary Australians also filmed the seminar. His footage will be used on his Temporary Australians show from October 1, 2014.
Thanks to all who attende3d and helped out.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne
Tuesday, 2 September 2014
TRAFFIC FILTERING IN VIC
For immediate release. Please pass
this on.
TO ALL VICTORIA MEMBERS OF
PARLIAMENT
TRAFFIC FILTERING is defined in
NSW as motorcycles & scooters moving between stationary or slow moving cars
at speeds up to 30 kph. Above 30 KPH they call it LANE
SPLITTING.
ACT will trial traffic filtering
in February 2015.
QLD will also legitimise/legalise
traffic filtering.
VIC's 2012 Parliamentary Inquiry
into motorcycle & scooter safety recommended a traffic filtering trial in
this state.
VicRoads keeps delaying that
trial. Roads Minister Mulder told the media that three riders
died traffic filtering so VIC would NOT be legitimising traffic filtering here.
Mulder was given bad advice on traffic filteriing and gave the media false
information on May 26, 2014. James Holgate was the motorcycle
& scooter community's contact at VicRoads and the probable source of the
misleading stats fed the Minister. Mr Holgate is on leave apparently and can't
confirm accurate information on these crashes.
The three fatal bike crashes, it seems, were over
a decade, NOT a year and were at freeway speeds. Not one of these riders crashed
traffic filtering as Minister Mulder led the media to believe.
FACTS
- Victoria should not follow the NSW traffic filtering model.
- Traffic filtering has existed since there has been traffic. It happens safely every day across Australia and around the world. It is not new.
- Statistics indicate traffic filtering is not a significant source of motorcycle, scooter or bicycle casualties. Experienced riders say it is the safest way to ride in heavy traffic.
- Traffic filtering benefits ALL road users by reducing pollution, road damage & congestion while improving safety and freeing up car parking space.
- There is no specific law against traffic filtering in Victoria. Victoria does NOT need/want a new law against lane splitting.
- Lane splitting is covered by dangerous riding laws with serious penalties.
- Traffic filtering can be quickly and economically legitimised in Victoria by A) including powered two-wheelers in bicycle regulations related to overtaking on the left of cars B) extending the bicycle stop line across all lanes at intersection to alloe riders to move ahead of cars while protecting the pedestrian right-of-way C) running an positive education campaign for car drivers on safe traffic filtering by ALL two-wheelers.
VicRoads has also delayed, again and again,
permitting motorcycles & scooters to travel in most bus lanes in spite of
the successful Hoddle Street trial completed more than 18 months ago. VicRoads
are aware of the dangerous situation they have created at the Hoddle Street end
of the Eastern Freeway but continue to do nothing to remedy that situation by
allowing motorcycles & scooters to use the Eastern Freeway bus
lane.
Members of the Victorian Parliament, in the run up
to the November state election should move to legitimise traffic filtering and
permit riders to use bus lanes. Both are safety measures that will also improve
traffic flow and reduce car parking shortages thereby benefiting
everyone.
Damien Codognotto OAM
Spokesman
Independent Riders Group
Melbourne.
Monday, 1 September 2014
MC FIRST AID - SYDNEY
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