Namibia's disadvantaged are set to benefit from the generosity of Southern Highlands residents with the imminent arrival of a shipping container filled to the brim with hundreds of second-hand bicycles.
Closing the door on the container, is Wingecarribee Shire's 2019 Citizen of the Year, Hans Radowitz, and fellow volunteer, Dave Johnson, with the help of the Resource Recovery Australia team.
"This container is the culmination of years of work from the volunteers from Bikes for Humanity," Hans said. "And while the pandemic disrupted maritime transport operations for a few years, we're proud to close the doors on this container and help replace the cycle of poverty with a cycle of hope."
On arrival in Namibia the bicycles will be handed over to the team from Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN) Namibia. BEN Namibia aims to empower disadvantaged people by providing sustainable transport options and bicycle-related income opportunities.
Hans and a small group of fellow volunteers meet at Council's Resource Recovery Centre (RRC) each Wednesday to repair and refurbish bicycles donated by Southern Highlands residents.
Council's Manager Waste and Resource Management, Clinton McAlister said that in addition to helping those less fortunate the volunteers were saving hundreds of bicycles from being scrapped or crushed.
"This is a truly wonderful effort and one that Council is extremely proud to support," he said.
Together with Resource Recovery Australia the team are already busy stocking another container that they aim to distribute to First Nations communities in need.
If you're looking for a quality second-hand bicycle that doesn't cost the earth, visit the Reviva Shop located on Berrima Road in Moss Vale. The shop is open between 8.30 am and 3 pm Monday to Saturday and 8.30 am to midday on Sundays.
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