NEWS

New Zealand's first awards for achievement in promoting cycling have been launched. National cycling organisation the Cycling Advocates Network (CAN) today announced the creation of the CAN Cycle-Friendly Awards. The awards aim to recognise individuals or organisations who have helped to create a bicycle-friendly environment at a national or local level. CAN is calling for nominations for awards in four categories: -best cycle facility project -best cycling promotion -cycle-friendly commitment by a business -cycle-friendly commitment by a public organisation CAN chairperson Jane Dawson said "The bicycle is a key part of the solution to the environmental, economic, social and health problems our current transport system has created. With the Cycle-Friendly Awards, CAN is looking to acknowledge and celebrate some of the initiatives that have helped to promote cycling for transport or recreation." Specially designed trophies will be presented to winners at a dinner to be held at the NZ Cycling Conference 2003 in the Bruce Mason Centre, North Shore City, on 10 October. Ends. Further information on the Cycle-Friendly Awards 2002/3 and a copy of the entry form can be found on the CAN website at http://www.can.org.nz For more information, contact Jane Dawson, CAN Chairperson, on 04-385 2557; or Glen Koorey, CAN Technical & Policy Adviser, on 027-454 3085 The Cycling Advocates' Network of NZ (CAN) Inc is this country's national network of cycling advocate groups. It is a voice for all non-competitive cyclists - recreational, commuter and touring. We work with central government and local authorities, on behalf of cyclists, for a better cycling environment. We have affiliated groups and individual members throughout the country, and links with overseas cycling organisations. In addition, several national/regional/local government authorities, transportation consultancies, and cycle industry businesses are supporting organisations. -- Jane Dawson & Robert Ibell 103A Tasman St Mt Cook Wellington 6002 New Zealand Tel/Fax: +64-4-385 2557