This is what they sent in response.... discuss
Hi ....,
Thanks for getting in touch. Bicycle NSW offers many benefits in addition to the advocacy we do. Individuals get significant discounts on event rides organised by us (like 50% off off the Spring Cycle), a $25 Scody voucher, relevant local cycling news in Push On (we are trying to find a way to publish Australian after it's publisher went into administration earlier this year) plus a bunch of other things. Of course, it is totally up to you whether the benefits suit you or not.
As for our advocacy, we acknowledge that there are many ways to approach the process of achieving change and it is clear that you feel that we could be approaching it differently. Currently, Bicycle NSW is involved with Government at all levels and we take the approach that it is better to build relationships with decision-makers and be included in the decision-making process than to break ties and be left standing outside the process.
A key way we contribute is by looking closely at various plans on exhibition and providing a voice for cyclists through the submissions we write. For example, we are currently preparing 3 submissions to the NSW Dept of Planning and Infrastructure for new land releases at Box Hill, Edmonson and Leppington East. These are great opportunities to influence the entire blueprint for these new land developments.
We are also totally redesigning our web site to serve our members, affiliated BUGs and regional areas better. A key focus of the redesign is advocacy.
As part of our new web site design, we will be providing:
educational resources for advocates
home pages for major campaigns, issues, plans & projects
improved presence for regional areas
improved presence for BUGs
a section that clearly expresses Bicycle NSW stance on major policy issues.
many other things....
You may even see some reasons to join us again in the future!
Warm regards,
Matt
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Matt Skinner
Membership Officer
Bicycle NSW