selectability opens new bike facility to help overcome loneliness

selectability has officially launched its innovative new facility designed to help the Townsville community overcome loneliness and get more active. 

Based on the proven Men’s Shed concept, selectability’s Bike Shed provides an inclusive space for locals to connect, work on projects, join in group bike rides and improve their mental wellbeing.

selectability CEO Debra Burden said even before the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, Australia was experiencing a loneliness epidemic and the Bike Shed provided Townsville residents with an option to become more active and connected. 

“We know that social isolation and loneliness can be harmful to both physical and mental health,” said Ms Burden.

“The Townsville Bike Shed provides a friendly, open and caring environment for people to make friends, get active and engage in a range of projects.

“I encourage the Townsville community to come along and check out the Bike Shed – borrow a bike and go for a ride, do some bike repairs in the workshop or just pop in for a coffee and a chat.

“It’s a free service and everyone is welcome.”

The facility includes the free bicycle loan scheme ‘On Your Bike For Mental Health’, break out areas for socialising, organised group rides, bicycle repair workshop and easy access to other mental wellbeing supports.

The Hon Scott Stewart MP and selectability chair Tom Ryan unveiled the plaque at the official event. 

The Townsville Bike Shed, proudly supported by Queensland Health and Glencore, is the third of its kind in regional Queensland with facilities already open in Mackay and Charters Towers. Bike Sheds will be open in Mount Isa, and Palm Island later in the year.

Read more about the Bike Sheds here