Shire promotes safe use of shared pathways

Published on 03 August 2020

Getting out for a long walk or bike ride is one way Peninsula locals and visitors love to enjoy the region.
 
Thanks to Mornington Peninsula Shire, shared pathway signage has been installed on pathways across the Peninsula including Mount Eliza, Mount Martha, Mornington, Hastings, Bittern, Tyabb, Balnarring and the Southern Peninsula.
 
Shire’s 50 kilometres of shared pathways are creating safe and inclusive places for the community to stay connected and active.
 
Shared pathways are for low speed recreational bike riding only and for pedestrian use. When sharing a pathway, it is important for cyclist to give way to walkers and ride in single file. For walkers, keeping left of the path will help ensure your safety.
 
Throughout the Shire shared pathways are clearly marked with signage to let people know when and where both pedestrians and bike riders can use the same path.
 
Children under 13 can ride on any footpath, and this applies to anyone accompanying them. Adult bike riders with a child in a child seat or bike attachment can also use footpaths.

Mornington Peninsula Shire Mayor Councillor Sam Hearn said he’s excited about the Shire’s shared pathways.
 
“As a Council, we love providing people with a safe and fun place to enjoy the outdoors. Shared pathways are a great initiative, with the key being that everyone uses them with the right attitude", said Cr Hearn.
 
“Whether you’re out for a walk, run or ride, please remember to consider other pathway users and practice the appropriate etiquettes”, concluded Cr Hearn.

 Key things to know if you’re a bike rider using a shared pathway:

• Use your bell, or voice when approaching pedestrians and other bicycle riders
• Ride at a running pace or below when using a shared path
• Ride in single file
• Slow down when approaching corners, overtaking or giving way to walkers.

 
Key things to know if you’re a pedestrian using a shared pathway:

• Keep to the left of the path
• Look and listen for bike riders and other road users when crossing roads or paths
• Move off the path if you want to stop
• Keep dog(s) on a short leash to your left of the path
• Encourage children to keep to the left of the path.

Photo: Mornington Peninsula Shire Traffic and Transport Team Leader Tom Haines-Sutherland and Mayor Councillor Sam Hearn at Blairgowrie shared pathway.