Ride Her Way
Published on 12 January 2026
A free program for women, by women, is helping Onkaparinga locals enjoy the freedom and joy of cycling – even if you’re just starting out.
When Port Noarlunga South’s Siân Bramwell moved from New South Wales to Onkaparinga last year, she searched online for ways to get to know her new home.
An outdoors lover, Siân was delighted to find a group that meets weekly for a leisurely social bike ride around the Onkaparinga region, catering especially to those who are new, or are returning to riding.
“I joined the week we arrived, and I haven’t missed a ride since,” says community ride participant Siân.
Ride Her Way is a free cycling program for women, by women, designed to increase female participation in cycling and help build confidence and skills in a safe, supportive environment.
Bike SA has partnered with 5 councils, including Onkaparinga (which ran the first trial) to deliver the program which covers community rides, bike maintenance and beginner workshops. An equipment lending scheme is also being developed.
The 3-year program (2024–27) is funded by an Australian Government Play Our Way grant and is for cyclists at every level – whether you’re just starting out or have been riding for years.
Siân says that while she always had bikes growing up, she only resumed cycling again in earnest during COVID to get out during lockdowns. She’s continued to ride since then to clear her mind of stresses while exercising.
“Keeping fit is a priority, so finding a group of lovely likeminded ladies has been invaluable for settling in SA,” she says.
“It has helped me get orientated to the area and learn about the fantastic cycle tracks.”
“After the ride, many of us have a coffee for a chat. I’ve made many new friends – moving interstate is challenging, but finding this friendly, supportive community has been such a blessing.”
Whatever age or experience you have, Siân encourages local women to give riding a go, spruiking the benefits cycling can have on physical and mental health. “The rides are organised to cater for everyone’s needs,” Siân explains.
“As a group, we vary from new to cycling, to very proficient, and ride on e-bikes, hybrid or road bikes.”
“It’s a wonderful couple of hours a week to ride, chat, laugh, make friends and keep fit. I’m grateful I found this group.”
Ride Her Way participant and Port Noarlunga resident Rita Kellaway, echoes Sian’s sentiments.
“At the age of 50 I took up triathlon as a sport and cycling became serious for me for many years. Nowadays I enjoy riding socially at a friendly pace. You get to be in the outdoors, its easy and it's fun!”, says Rita.
“I moved to the area a few years ago and had been looking for a nice social group to ride with, so when this came up [Ride Her Way community group rides] I ventured out on a coldish autumn day. Only 2 of us turned up, however it has gone from strength to strength since then”, recounts Rita.
“The ride is all about beginners becoming confident in a supportive environment and is also suitable for those who are very comfortable riding however want some social company while they ride. The group of women that come out are fabulous. It's all about the coffee/chat afterwards!”, laughs Rita.
“My advice would be to come out and give it and go - you won't be left behind and you'll find lots of good advice to help you if you need it.”
Each ride is led by trained volunteer ride leaders, something Bike SA Ride Her Way Coordinator, Michelle Crick, says adds to the safe and inclusive environment.
“The ride leaders are locals, know the area very well, and share their knowledge with participants” says Michelle, who’s also an Onkaparinga local.
“If they don’t know something, the Ride Her Way community are happy to share notes from their area of riding.”
Michelle reiterates Siân’s comments about the impact the rides have had on participants so far.
“The biggest change is the connections and friendships they’ve all formed,” Michelle explains.
“No one knew each other before we started, but now they’re all firm friends and have ridden together outside of the official ride.”
For those wanting to brush up on their cycling skills or learn their way around a bike before a community ride, the 4-week beginner workshop program – which teaches bike skills and confidence during 90-minute sessions – and the bike maintenance workshops are a perfect start.
The practical bike maintenance workshops, which have been held at Woodcroft Library and are being explored for Aldinga Community Centre, are ideal for anyone looking to gain confidence with simple bike upkeep.
These 2-hour, hands-on sessions cover pre-ride bike checks, puncture repair (tube and tubeless), basic adjustments for comfort and safety, tips for minor at-home or on-the-go tweaks; and basic things to carry on your bike.
Ride Her Way Community Group Rides depart from the McLaren Vale & Fleurieu Coast Visitor Information Centre each Wednesday.
The City of Onkaparinga provides in-kind support to Ride Her Way through the council’s Healthy Active Lifestyles Onkaparinga (HALO) program, which assists the community to take part in sport and active recreation, and to lead healthy lifestyles.
To learn more about when the next community rides or workshops are happening, and to book, visit onkaparingacity.com/rideherway