The Barkly Region - Bikes In The Barkly
We have partnered with Our Community Shed and The Juno Skills Centre in Tennant Creek to deliver a 6 month pilot youth bike program in 2026.
We have successfully delivered across three visits during April School Holidays and Terms 2 and 3 of school:
bike fixing sessions, bike riding sessions, afterschool activities and in school bike mechanics classes.
Repaired and gifted 50 bikes to young people during afterschool activities
Set up and stocked with tools and bike parts, a functional and practical workshop space at Our Community Shed
Recognised and up-skilled 5 adults who can volunteer and deliver bike fixing sessions at Our Community Shed during our visits
Established ongoing consultation with community members, young people and stakeholders in Tennant Creek about the future of the program in the community
Key outcomes of the program
290 participants - active, engaged young people utilising bikes for transport and recreation
50 bikes distributed and gifted
33 bikes repaired in community
Established relationships in community
Received financial support from Manungurra Aboriginal Corporation
Received program longevity support from Mayor Sid Vashist for Barkly Regional Council, Our Community Shed, the Juno Skills Centre, Tennant Creek High School and Barkly Arts.
“[we want] bigger bikes, [to build] bike tracks, jumps, [regular activities] on weekends and afternoons” Kayden, 10, Program Participant.
“The need in the Barkly Region is high. Through partnerships, donations, grants and sponsorships, together we have made this program happen. Continuing to amplify community voices (adults and young people) to secure long term funding will be the next step to deliver and provide what young people are asking for ” Alice, Bikes Mwerre Program Coordinator
Next Steps
As this 6 months of the pilot program comes to an end, we begin the next 6 months of planning and preparation, delivery of the program, securing further funding to bridge the budget gap and continue consultation with community and stakeholders to ensure the program is reflecting the needs of the Tennant Creek community and young people. The program aims to keep young people engaged, active, social, creating safe spaces and opportunities for skill development and strong engagement in school.
What does it mean to have a bike?
“My name is Amariah Anderson and I like to ride bikes with the lil homiez and this is all my friends and family and we all like to ride bikes everywhere and this is how we roll.”
Amariah helping repair a flat tyre for another young person.
Get in touch
If you are a business or corporation who would like to invest in a community program, please get in touch.
Individuals can also support the program - head to https://asf.org.au/campaigns/bikes-mwerre/help-bikes-mwerre-take-100-bikes-to-remote-communities to donate
Contact manager@bikesmwerre.org or alice@bikesmwerre.org
*Bikes in the Barkly, the Tennant Creek Community Youth Bike Pilot Program has been funded through NTG Barkly Youth Activities Grant, Australian Sports Foundation campaign, partnerships and sponsorships.