It is common these days to encounter family groups enjoying this low cost, socially pleasant and environmentally friendly recreation.

Local resident, Adrian Ryan, recently approached the Myall Waterways Chamber of Commerce and Tourism with an idea to make this area a cycle-friendly town all year round.

This idea surfaced after vice president of the Chamber, Allan Wilson, placed an article in the NOTA late last year which highlighted the need to boost tourism for the two towns during the slower winter months.

"I asked people to send in their ideas and comments on how we could address this issue and Mr Ryan was one of the respondents," Mr Wilson said.

Chamber members were impressed with Mr Ryan's idea and made him an honorary member of the Chamber - his purpose being to lead the cycling project.

The Chamber is interested in fostering cycling as a recreational activity and establishing appropriate facilities in Hawks Nest and Tea Gardens.

They are inviting suggestions or comments from the local community, from people of all ages from schoolchildren up to and including mature-age residents on the proposal.

Mr Ryan believes with its flat terrain, low traffic density and the hot days of summer cooled by nor-easterly sea breezes, that this area is an ideal location for cycling.

"This is increasingly evident by the number of residents and visitors of all ages to be seen enjoying this healthy activity," he said.

Mr Wilson agrees and said the aim of the project is to encourage more people to cycle.

"Cycling is fun and environmentally friendly and we would also like to look at holding cycling competitions and other cycling activities here in the future," he said.

The Chamber is setting up a working party to examine the proposal.

Mr Wilson said the working party would look at what facilities are available in Australia and decide what our area needs to implement this project.

"We will also look at approaching relevant government authorities for grants for cycleways and we would like to get the schools involved as well," he said.

In addition to forwarding suggestions or comments on the proposal, members of the community are invited to join the working party or be available to provide helpful advice or assistance.

"We would then look at the recommendations and present a proposal to the Chamber for approval," Mr Wilson said.

Please contact Allan Wilson on 4997 1352 or email afwilson10@primus.com.au for further details.