Liv Lorkin shares an IBUG initiative.

It started with a borrowed bike. I clambered onto the early-morning train to Thirroul to meet women from across Wollongong for a ride along the coast. I was easily lured by the promise of hot chocolate and savoury crepes to finish our journey.

Since then, I’ve swiftly fallen in love with cycling.

I now prefer a cruise down to the supermarket on two wheels, I normally have the best ‘parking’ spot and I love to see the delighted faces as I ride past with my cavalier Gracie in her little doggie backpack. I’ve found friends through our shared love of the outdoors, I’ve gotten fitter (with a little e-bike boost) and I’ve explored my local backyard.

All of this is to say, I’m a biking convert.

So this is a call-out to all those fellow women and gender-diverse individuals to dust off or borrow their bikes, pump up those tyres and join me for Wollongong’s first Fancy Women’s Bike Ride, an Illawarra Bicycle Users Group (IBUG) volunteer-led ride from UOW Northfields Avenue to the Basin Cafe.

With jazz and coffee on arrival, participants are encouraged to dress up in their fanciest outfits and cycle through Wollongong sharing in the fun and community of riding. BYO picnic and grab a spot on the lawn while the judges officiate the winners of our bike and outfit prizes.

This is an open event for women, gender-diverse people and all bike enthusiasts. Join the ride from 11am on the 1st of September, tickets are $10 and I hope to see your fancy selves there!

Save the date: Sunday, 1 September, 11am-12.30pm, visit www.trybooking.com/CTMCG

The Fancy Women Bike Ride is more than just a cycling event; it is a celebration of women’s empowerment, solidarity, and a testament to the determination of volunteers who have dedicated their time and energy to make a difference. The ride encourages women and all gender diverse people from all walks of life to reclaim public spaces, promote sustainable transportation, and challenge societal norms. All gentlemen who support these ideas are more than welcome to join our crew. Bring your picnic baskets, you can drop them off at the finish line before going to the ride. There will be prizes for: Fanciest Rider; Best Dressed Bike; Best Dressed Group; Team Spirit Award; Best Bike Bling; Best Floral Bike; Best Vintage Bike; and more...