Gosford media alert: Cycling for a Nuclear Free Future

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The Central Coast was named as a likely candidate for a nuclear reactor in a feasibility study conducted by The Australia Institute earlier this year. This is why five cyclists making their way to Canberra from Rockhampton have chosen Gosford as an important stop in their epic journey.

On 18th August members of the Community Environment Network, the Central Coast branch of the Australian Conservation Foundation and the Greens will be welcoming five cyclists who are cycling from Rockhampton to Canberra. Cycle Against the Nuclear Cycle (CANC) will then continue to Port Augusta, via Melbourne, with more cyclists joining the ride. They are cycling to promote a nuclear free future for Australia. Cycle Against the Nuclear Cycle (CANC) passes through regions that are likely candidates to host nuclear reactors if Australia chooses to adopt nuclear power.

"Nuclear power is no solution to climate change", says cyclist Robyn Higgins. "It's too slow, too dangerous and too expensive." The 4500km ride began on the 25th June in Rockhampton.

The cyclists have been talking to communities along the east coast of Australia and raising their concerns about the possible expansion of the nuclear industry in Australia. "In an election year, it is important that people approach their local candidates to ask what their policies on uranium mining, nuclear waste and nuclear power are. If communities are being asked to accept a nuclear power station in their area or to accept high level nuclear waste being transported through their towns, then they have a right to know now, not after the election is held," says cyclist Georgina Pike.

CANC is also promoting sustainable energy and transport. "Clean, sustainable energy production is here and ready to go now. We need funding for development of renewables, not reactors," says cyclist Beck Pearse. "We invite interested locals to meet us and perhaps join us in cycling with us for a while."

A public event will be held at Kibble Park in Gosford at 11.30 am with an opportunity to meet the cyclists and hear them speak on the nuclear issue. Speeches will be followed by a sausage sizzle.