S2E28 PnP Paris Lord on Cycling for Community Connection
Paris Lord Cycling for Community Connection
In the latest People and Projects episode of Streets and People, we were fortunate to speak with Paris Lord, a cycling advocate whose passion for bikes has sparked meaningful community change in Canberra. Paris’ story highlights the power of cycling not just for transport, but for fostering connections in neighbourhoods.
The Beginning of a Lifelong Passion
Paris’ journey with cycling began in the tranquil country of northern New South Wales, where his uncle introduced him to the joy of riding. To Paris, the bike wasn’t just a tool—it was a gateway to freedom. This passion followed him through life and became the foundation of his mission to reconnect people, especially after the isolation caused by the pandemic.
Canberra by Bike: A New Perspective
In his quest to bring the community together, Paris launched “Canberra by Bike,” a series of bike tours that explore the city’s rich culture, history, and architecture. The tours, which include everything from educational rides to leisurely art and sculpture explorations, aim to reveal Canberra’s vibrant character beyond its political reputation. Despite facing early setbacks, Paris’ persistence has led to the flourishing of this unique community program.
The Bike Bus: A Movement for Kids
Inspired by global trends, Paris and his team introduced the Bike Bus—an initiative that encourages children to safely ride to school. This effort, which brings families, politicians, and community members together, is reshaping the school run. Not only does it reduce traffic congestion, but it also empowers children by giving them independence and a sense of community.
Cycling for All Abilities
Paris’ vision extends beyond just providing cycling opportunities; he’s committed to ensuring that everyone can participate. Through partnerships with groups like Fit Ability, Paris has made cycling accessible to people with vision impairments. These efforts have sparked awareness, generated local support, and even attracted the attention of political leaders who see the impact first-hand.
Overcoming Setbacks with Resilience
Paris is candid about the obstacles he’s faced. From low attendance at events to technical hiccups, the road to success hasn’t always been smooth. However, he views these challenges as valuable lessons in resilience. His advice to those seeking to make a difference? Keep going, even when things don’t unfold as planned. The path to progress often involves trial and error, but persistence is key.
A Call for Community Action
Paris Lord’s story underscores the power of grassroots advocacy in transforming communities. Cycling, as he shows, can be a vehicle for connection, creativity, and positive change. By engaging with others, sharing knowledge, and creating opportunities for people to come together, we can reshape our neighbourhoods into places that put people at the heart of urban life.
Pedal Forward
As we concluded our conversation, it became clear that cycling is much more than getting from point A to point B—it’s about building stronger, more connected communities. Paris reminds us that even small actions, like joining a bike bus or taking a ride around the block, can have a lasting impact. The journey may not always be easy, but each pedal forward brings us closer to a community where joy, connection, and opportunity are within reach for everyone.
