Tamar Bicycle Users Group (TBUG) was formed in early 2009 in response to growing concerns about cycling safety on the West Tamar Highway. At the same time, there was a shared desire to strengthen the collective voice of bike riders in northern Tasmania.
Guided by our motto, “Life is better on a bike,” TBUG works to improve conditions for people who ride in the Tamar Valley and Northern Midlands. We represent both everyday commuters and recreational cyclists, and from the beginning we have focused on building awareness, advocacy, and respect for cycling across the Launceston region.
Supporting people to ride with confidence
Alongside our advocacy work, TBUG plays an active role in helping people feel confident on their bikes. Many riders are unsure where it is safe to cycle, particularly when starting out. To address this, TBUG introduced trained ride leaders and a wide range of group rides for beginner and intermediate riders.
Our ride program includes mid-week and weekend rides, touring experiences, and popular events such as Bike Week, history rides, and social theme rides. Long-running programs like the Wednesday rides, now operating for more than 15 years, have helped hundreds of people discover safe and enjoyable cycling. Newer ride groups continue to expand participation in a friendly and welcoming environment.
Advocating for safer cycling infrastructure
TBUG has been a consistent advocate for improved cycling infrastructure. Early efforts contributed to safety improvements on the West Tamar Highway and the introduction of Launceston’s first bike lanes in 2009.
Since then, we have continued to work with councils and governments through submissions, planning processes, and advisory committees. Our advocacy promotes cycling as a healthy, accessible, and practical form of active transport. TBUG’s contribution to the community has been recognised through multiple awards.
Learning, growing, and working together
Over time, TBUG has learned that safe infrastructure is essential to increasing participation in cycling. We also recognise the important role e-bikes play in expanding who can ride and for how long. Well-organised groups with trained leaders remain one of the most effective ways to encourage people to get active.
Bicycle advocacy is a long-term effort. Through collaboration, persistence, and community support, TBUG continues to work toward a future where the benefits of cycling are accessible to everyone in our region.
Help us keep TBUG strong and keep growing the organisation by joining us and becoming a member.
