Nervous Nineties?! Not for Sylvia and her date with the open road

BELLINGEN, NSW – A group of older Australians from the Mid North Coast today experienced something none of them had ever done before – climbing aboard a motorbike for a guided tour of the Bellingen region.

The social outing, organised by Dovida Mid North Coast, brought clients together for morning tea at the historic Bellingen CWA Hall before taking to the roads with local trike tour operator Brent from Coffs Harbour Trike and Private Tour, who has been running rides through the region for years.

For every one of the participants, it was their first time on a bike.

Among them was 93-and-a-half-year-old Sylvia – who turned out to be the oldest passenger Brent has ever had the pleasure of taking for a ride. So taken was he by the experience that he has made a personal promise to visit Sylvia on her 94th birthday and take her out for a longer ride.

“That was so unexpected – but I’m so glad I did it. It was so much fun,” Sylvia said.

Also along for the ride was John, a former BMW motorcycle rider whose love of two wheels was reignited on the day. Patricia summed up the morning simply: “Best thing ever – made my day.”

Lorna, riding for the very first time, said: “It was great – my first time ever on a bike.” And Zoe reflected: “I loved it – it took me back.”

It was client Miriam, however, who perhaps captured the spirit of the day most beautifully.

“Just what us oldies need – a bit of wind through the hair,” she said. “It’s not about stepping out of your comfort zone – it’s about creating memories.”

For Dovida representative Michelle, who organised the occasion, the event left an impact.

“I’ve worked in disability for years and in all my time, this was the most rewarding morning I have ever experienced. The smiles on the faces and the shear joy that this brought all the clients was priceless.

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Dovida Mid North Coast supports older people across the region to remain living independently at home, with services tailored to each person’s individual needs and interests – including social activities that keep life full and meaningful.