By Callum Ludwig
An opportunity to enjoy exercise and explore the history of the Upper Yarra next month.
The Upper Yarra Historical Society (UYHS) is encouraging residents to ‘Ride Into History’ on November 11 and 12; a slow-paced bicycle ride on the Lilydale to Warburton trail accompanied by presentations of local history on the journey back to the Upper Yarra Museum.
Organiser Leila Hay said small vignettes based on local settlement history will be performed in Warburton, Wesburn and at the museum.
“A local theatre group, the Mad Hatter Theatrics is performing the vignettes; Little Projector Company will provide historical background image projections on locations,” she said.
“The aim is to make our local pioneering heritage better known and to highlight the profile of the Historical Society and the Museum as the guardians of our local settlement history.”
Riders will begin from the Cob Bikes Cafe in Warburton at 7.30pm to register, with 70 tickets available per night for $10 each including a hot drink with sweets at the Museum.
Ms Hay said the UYHS is reaching out from the confines of a static museum site in Yarra Junction to other parts of the Upper Yarra Valley to inspire locals to learn more about their pioneering history.
“Many in our local community have unfortunately never visited the Museum nor know much about our rich local settlement history. As the older generation with memories of local historical events is passing on, it is important to get the wider community more involved,” she said.
“Particularly for newcomers to the region, getting to know their local history can help them grow roots and create a sense of place,”
“We believe that this event will create more curiosity towards our heritage and hopefully encourage volunteering and participation in the activities arranged by the Historical Society.”
Due to the ride taking place at night, no kids are permitted to participate for safety reasons.
Cog Bikes will have three riders with first aid and bike mechanics skills joining the ride so they are on hand to provide assistance if needed, while attendees can also hire bikes from the Cog Bikes if required.
The event has been supported by a community grant from Yarra Ranges Council.
For more information or to buy tickets, visit www.upperyarramuseum.org.au/ride-into-history.
