Byron Bay railway station sees some action once a year at least, when the proud members of the World Naked Bike Ride clan gather to get into their uniforms for the annual streaking cycle through the town.
Pictured (l to to r) are eager punters gathering to practice getting naked in public – and for the press: Sherrie Yeomans (Lennox Head), Mijimberi (Lismore) and Malcolm Buchanan (Mt Tambourine).
Sherrie has two teenage children who she says mostly cycle everywhere.
‘It’s so important that they are safe on the road,’ she says, in explanation of what has motivated her to join her first ride this year.
She also lost a friend who was killed in a bike accident.
Sherrie says she is not nervous – she often gets her gear off and is a fan of the north coast’s fabulous clothing optional beaches.
Malcolm wants to ‘bring awareness to the issue of safety of people on the roads,’ and adds that for him the ride is also ‘a way of celebrating the human body in all its diverse forms’.
Mij is one of the coordinators of the Nimbin ride, which he has done since its inception eight years ago.
‘Our roads are narrow, pot-holed and dangerous so it’s important to keep bringing forward the message of sharing the roads,’ Mij says.
‘And it’s a lot of fun. Cycling nude up the main street of your home town is hugely liberating!’
World Naked Bike Ride Byron Bay takes place from 3pm on Sunday March 13. Meet on the platform of the old Byron Bay Railway Station.
World Naked Bike Ride Nimbin takes place from 10am on Saturday March 12. Meet at the Bush Theatre.
What to take
- a bike (check brakes etc before you come).
- helmet (compulsory).
- body paints (there will be some available but the more the better) and natural pigments if you have some.
- sunscreen.
- drinking water
- towel
Dress code
Clothing is optional, participants may ride ‘as bare as they care’, as long as they feel comfortable. Naked or not, helmets – and sun block – are essential.
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