Latest news with #PeterMcLean
Yahoo
3 days ago
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Major Aussie e-bike 'licence trial' looms amid crackdown on misuse
E-bikes are a hotly debated point of contention, with uptake soaring around the country as their popularity rises. Supporters argue they offer a sustainable, efficient alternative to cars, especially for younger commuters drawn to their affordability and convenience. But critics point to concerns around speed, reckless use, and — when it comes to rideshare fleets operated by international companies like Lime, Beam, and Neuron — a lack of clear accountability in the event of accidents or misuse. With teenagers among the most frequent users of e-bikes, New South Wales is proposing to launch a new program targeting schoolkids and aimed at promoting the safe use of e-bikes. Launched by Bicycle NSW, the Student Bicycle Licence Scheme is due to commence in some schools "around mid to late September". Speaking to Yahoo News Australia, the CEO of Bicycle NSW, Peter McLean, said the trial is all about "education and awareness". While councils may support and encourage the scheme, the decision to participate and how the program is implemented will rest with individual schools. Some schools in Sutherland and Newcastle have already expressed interest in the trial, and there is hope that Sydney Northern Beaches schools will join as well. Further details about participating schools and the broader rollout are expected to become clearer as the trial progresses later in the year. "[The trial] focuses on a number of the basic rules for bicycle users, but also on etiquette and respect," McLean told Yahoo. "It also includes helpful knowledge around bicycle security and equipment. "We are beginning the trial with schools in Sutherland and Newcastle, and hopefully Northern Beaches, as well. We will hopefully test this with a few students in schools later this term and then more schools in Term 4 of this year." How would an e-bike licence scheme work? The program includes a simple online assessment designed to confirm that students understand fundamental bike safety, road rules, and appropriate riding behaviour. Those who complete it would receive a digital licence featuring council-branded recognition. Schools will be allowed to decide how the scheme fits within their community, for instance, whether to require the licence for students who cycle to school. Northern Beaches Council Mayor Sue Heins introduced the idea during a council meeting on July 15, citing its low cost, and adding that, "at a state level, there is currently no consistent bicycle education or awareness programs" for schools. Councillors voted to participate in the scheme, meaning they agreed to support and promote the initiative across the local area, including working with schools to encourage uptake and reporting on participation levels. But on Monday, Northern Beaches confirmed to Yahoo it had paused on the idea, pending a rescission motion — a formal request to revoke or reconsider a previous decision, which will be discussed at the next Council meeting on August 19. But elsewhere, McLean said many regions have expressed sharp interest. "I have discussed it with councils in the Central West of NSW, for example, and they are very keen," he said. "We just want to make sure we develop the program thoroughly first before we broaden the offering to others." Why are e-bikes controversial in Australia? E-bikes have surged in popularity across Australia, especially among young people who see them as a fast, convenient, and eco-friendly alternative to cars or public transport. When used responsibly, they provide an accessible way for people to cover longer distances with less effort, encouraging more active and sustainable lifestyles. Elderly clash with youths on e-bike in 'battle of the beaches' Recurring e-bike complaint 'disgusting' Aussies Little-known rule could see you lose licence without driving a car Properly handled, e-bikes improve urban mobility by bridging the gap between walking, cycling, and public transport, making it easier for people to get around quickly and efficiently without relying on cars. This not only benefits individual users but also contributes positively to overall community health and the environment. But the rise in popularity hasn't come without controversy. Concerns around safety, speed and rule compliance are growing, especially as more inexperienced or underage riders take to the roads and footpaths. Local councils have fielded complaints about e-bikes being dumped haphazardly, ridden recklessly, or used in places where they're not allowed. The issue is especially complicated when the bikes are owned by international rideshare companies, which operate under different agreements in each city. In the event of an accident, accountability can become murky, leaving councils and communities to debate who should bear responsibility. In Australia, e-bikes are generally legal nationwide, but each state and territory has its own specific rules around power limits, speed, age restrictions, and where they can be ridden. Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
The Age
26-06-2025
- Business
- The Age
This Sydney landmark is crossed 16,000 times a day. It's about to get a $60m makeover
In 2018, work started on a $23 million restoration project to replace damaged ironbark piers – some that were well below the waterline – and truss sections over five years. There was also water damage from digging through the deck for the bridge's now-defunct monorail pylons that had to be repaired. The bridge is heavily used by commuters, residents and tourists. Tensions between pedestrians and cyclists prompted authorities to turn it into a shared zone with a 10km/h speed limit. Bicycle NSW chief executive Peter McLean is among advocates for a separated or marked cycleway. 'I think most of the funding in this year's budget will be soaked up for maintenance and rehabilitation of the asset itself which we won't necessarily see, but nevertheless it's important to its structural integrity going forward. We want it to be there in another hundred years' time. 'It's always going to be an area of challenge because of that heavy utilisation and the tourist component. I'd always caution bicycle riders to be very vigilant and cautious around there.' Pedestrian Council of Australia chairman Harold Scruby agreed: 'I think the Pyrmont Bridge should have a separated cycleway or cyclists should have to dismount. It's a pedestrian thoroughfare.' Plans to restore the bridge coincide with a wave of residential and commercial projects destined to draw more people and concentrate attention west of Sydney's city centre in coming decades. Developer Mirvac is forging ahead with its $2 billion redevelopment of the nearby Harbourside shopping centre, with a 42-storey apartment tower, offices, restaurants, bars and shops. The project includes a recently approved 3500 square metre waterfront garden to be built adjacent to the bridge. There are also plans, which the state government is assessing, to erect a 40-storey office complex at the opposite end of Pyrmont Bridge as part of the $650 million Cockle Bay Wharf redevelopment. Loading The Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy, which was finalised in 2020 to guide development for the next two decades, earmarked the area for 4000 homes for 8000 residents and 23,000 new jobs. Also under construction are the Pyrmont metro station and the new Sydney Fish Market at Glebe. About 1500 apartments will be built on the old fish market site on the Pyrmont side of Blackwattle Bay. McLean said: 'The quickest way of getting to those new key amenities or transport hubs will be walking or riding. Pyrmont Bridge is also just a stunning, beautiful walk. It's only going to continue to grow in popularity from an active transport, recreational and a tourism point of view.'
Sydney Morning Herald
26-06-2025
- Business
- Sydney Morning Herald
This Sydney landmark is crossed 16,000 times a day. It's about to get a $60m makeover
In 2018, work started on a $23 million restoration project to replace damaged ironbark piers – some that were well below the waterline – and truss sections over five years. There was also water damage from digging through the deck for the bridge's now-defunct monorail pylons that had to be repaired. The bridge is heavily used by commuters, residents and tourists. Tensions between pedestrians and cyclists prompted authorities to turn it into a shared zone with a 10km/h speed limit. Bicycle NSW chief executive Peter McLean is among advocates for a separated or marked cycleway. 'I think most of the funding in this year's budget will be soaked up for maintenance and rehabilitation of the asset itself which we won't necessarily see, but nevertheless it's important to its structural integrity going forward. We want it to be there in another hundred years' time. 'It's always going to be an area of challenge because of that heavy utilisation and the tourist component. I'd always caution bicycle riders to be very vigilant and cautious around there.' Pedestrian Council of Australia chairman Harold Scruby agreed: 'I think the Pyrmont Bridge should have a separated cycleway or cyclists should have to dismount. It's a pedestrian thoroughfare.' Plans to restore the bridge coincide with a wave of residential and commercial projects destined to draw more people and concentrate attention west of Sydney's city centre in coming decades. Developer Mirvac is forging ahead with its $2 billion redevelopment of the nearby Harbourside shopping centre, with a 42-storey apartment tower, offices, restaurants, bars and shops. The project includes a recently approved 3500 square metre waterfront garden to be built adjacent to the bridge. There are also plans, which the state government is assessing, to erect a 40-storey office complex at the opposite end of Pyrmont Bridge as part of the $650 million Cockle Bay Wharf redevelopment. Loading The Pyrmont Peninsula Place Strategy, which was finalised in 2020 to guide development for the next two decades, earmarked the area for 4000 homes for 8000 residents and 23,000 new jobs. Also under construction are the Pyrmont metro station and the new Sydney Fish Market at Glebe. About 1500 apartments will be built on the old fish market site on the Pyrmont side of Blackwattle Bay. McLean said: 'The quickest way of getting to those new key amenities or transport hubs will be walking or riding. Pyrmont Bridge is also just a stunning, beautiful walk. It's only going to continue to grow in popularity from an active transport, recreational and a tourism point of view.'
Geek Dad
24-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Geek Dad
‘Paved With Good Intentions:' A Book Review
It's always sad when a favorite series finishes. Peter McLean closed his War of the Rose Throne series in 2022, and I thought that was that. It was a great ending to one of fantasy's most consistently thrilling series. Imagine my excitement when, earlier this year, I learned that McLean was revisiting the world of the Rose Throne with Paved With Good Intentions . Double that excitement, to understand how thrilled I was to receive a review copy, and double it again, now I've read it. Thomas Piety may not be in the novel, but McLean's new central character, Eline, is every bit as compelling. This is a complete standalone novel, set in the same universe as The War of the Rose Throne series. There is no need to have read those books in order to enjoy Paved With Good Intentions, although there are some references in the book that will mean more if you have read the original quartet. Whichever you decide to read first, you won't be disappointed! The novel opens with Eline killing her husband. Her abuser. Unfortunately for her, somebody saw her do it. Fortunately for her, someone else is happy to clear up the mess and stop Eline from going to the gallows. Unfortunately, that someone wants something in return. Eline finds herself working for Luka, one of the 'Queen's Men,' a shadowy secret police, who keep the wheels of politics and intrigue well greased in the city of Drathburg, and beyond. For her newfound freedom, Eline must insinuate herself into a high-end brothel and assassinate its Madame. She has no idea how she will accomplish this feat, but she has little choice but to accept. Eline quickly adapts to her new status, but can see no way to carry out Luka's wishes. Yet, she must, for the Queen's Men, know everything, including the whereabouts of her children. Failure for Eline means death for her loved ones. The more Eline digs into the world of the House of the Silver Bells, the more she discovers a world built on shifting sands. Each revelation leads to more questions, and Luka's thirst for knowledge only deepens. Yet, knowledge is power, and the more Eline learns, the more she realizes she can control her own destiny. The thing I enjoy about Peter McLean's novels is that they are about ordinary people. Flawed individuals with cores of iron, living in a brutal world. The events they can affect are small. Politics and disputes whirl around them, whilst they struggle in vain to make sense of their own predicament. Being a centrist dad of a certain age, it's written in the stars that I have to listen to political podcasts. One of the things they often say on them is that most people aren't interested in politics, except at election time. They're too busy with their own struggles. Wrangling with family, a suspicious mole, or an officious boss. Perhaps the neighbor's dog is noisy. These are the people who make up Peter McLean's books. They're not interested in politics. They're interested in making it to the end of the day, week, month, year. That politics happens to them is almost coincidental, until they find themselves neck deep in a plot they barely begin to fathom. So it was with Thomas Piety, and so it is with Eline. Don't get me wrong, both have agency and are architects of their own destiny; it's just that, rather than being involved in grand plots, they are simply reacting to and working with the events immediately around them. I love this approach to world-building. There is always a bigger picture, but we only see it through the evolution of McLean's characters. There are lots of exciting and surprising revelations as Eline burrows into the political underbelly of the city of Drathburg. Like many of McLean's creations, she is a strong woman able to control who she wants to be, though she has to contend with many demons, not least of which is the trauma instilled by her violent husband and her hand in his death. Eline is supremely intelligent and quick on the uptake, using her skills to her advantage while she works for Luka; building her position as the novel progresses. This is not a complete novel. While there is a solid ending, it is only the beginning of Eline's rebirth as an agent of the Queen's Men. I, for one, can't wait for more. The novel is filled with tantalising plot hooks, and McLean's trademark likeable characters with complex motivations. The story of Thomas Piety and The War for the Rose Throne may be complete (or not?!), but their spirit lives on in Eline and Paved With Good Intentions. I'm looking forward to seeing where her road leads next. If you would like to pick up a copy of Paved With Good Intentions , you can do so here. (This is a UK Affiliate Link. I was unable to find US availability.) If you enjoyed this review, check out my other book reviews, here. I received a copy of this book in order to write this review. Liked it? Take a second to support GeekDad and GeekMom on Patreon!
Yahoo
09-06-2025
- Automotive
- Yahoo
Calls for change as deteriorating roads expose big 'risk' to Aussies
Aussie road users are growing increasingly fed up with the deteriorating state of the tarmac across the country. New data reveals reports of sub-par roads and bike paths have tripled in the past three years, with "no signs of slowing down". While the number of reports correlates with an uptick in Aussies opting to travel on their bikes, the state of roads poses an "increasing risk" to the wellbeing of cyclists, according to Danny Gorog, CEO of council reporting app Snap Send Solve. Cycling advocacy group Bicycle NSW's CEO Peter McLean has called on authorities to pay attention to the complaints, telling Yahoo it's critically important "all three tiers" of government acknowledge that there are more cyclists than ever on the roads. "We need to evolve and react to managing our assets and infrastructure more appropriately," he said. "People want better, more consistent infrastructure, and where they're not seeing it, they are reporting it," he said. Since 2020, cycling has seen a "massive uptake", according to McLean. Now, over five million Australians are riding a bike every week, particularly with the advent of e-bikes. With that, has come a rise in complaints on the state of infrastructure meant to serve cyclists. Last year, there was a "record-breaking" 5,235 reports of issues in bike paths including crumbling tarmac, regular debris in the way, as well as overgrown nature strips across the country, according to Snap Send Solve data. 2025 looks like it's going to be even worse with 3,153 reports already recorded between January and May this year. "This rapid growth strongly suggests that conditions on the ground are deteriorating year over year," Gorog told Yahoo News Australia. While the Snap Send Solve app itself is increasing in popularity among responsible citizens, he believes the rise in complaints is "unlikely" to be explained simply by reporting behaviour alone. "It signals worsening infrastructure conditions, poor repairs, ageing bike lanes, and potentially inadequate maintenance cycles," he said. He warns the current pace of deterioration could "undermine broader mobility goals and pose increasing risks to cyclists." Gorog hopes the insights will guide smarter investments and ongoing upgrades from authorities. 🚨 Drivers warned major road rule change with $961 fines 'just weeks' away 📸 Cyclist's heated exchange with driver over 'deliberate' roadside act 👮 'Unbelievable' moment cyclist swerves in front of driver draws police response It's not just the quality of the roads putting cyclists at risk, but also fellow road users like car drivers. A disproportionate amount of crashes involve cyclists on Australian roads despite them being a small percentage of overall road users. Last year, cyclist deaths jumped from 34 in 2023 to 38 in 2024, an 11.8% increase, with motor vehicles involved in the majority of crashes. Footage shared earlier this year shows a scary near-miss between a driver and a cyclist in the Melbourne suburb of Brunswick. Cyclist Rory Meister told Yahoo News he thought it was "absurd" the driver didn't see him despite having flashing lights on his bike. He said incidents with drivers are alarmingly frequent. McLean previously told Yahoo education and awareness are the first port of call for improving safety for cyclists. "Fundamentally, we need better awareness at an early stage of when people are getting their licenses," he said. "There's lots of great drivers out there and we just need to equalise everyone on the road." Do you have a story tip? Email: newsroomau@ You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, Twitter and YouTube.
