Gary Hackett
Director
A lifelong cyclist and entrepreneur who has built and led organisations with a clear focus on people. His love of long distance tandem cycling underpins his vision for Riding Together.
About us
Cycling should be accessible for everyone
Our story
In 2016 the Central Coast Bicycle User Group launched the RidesAssist Program. With two tandems and a big dream, they offered cycling experiences to riders with vision impairment on the Central Coast of New South Wales.
In 2024, after meeting by chance, our directors Gary and Alan discovered a shared passion for inclusivity and cycling, and combined forces to form Riding Together.
Today Riding Together Limited is a community driven, registered Australian charity supporting people with physical or intellectual disability, or limited mobility. Our goal is wellbeing, social inclusion and independence through inclusive activities.
Our values
Inclusivity
Everyone feels welcome, valued and supported, whatever their ability or experience.
Empowerment
Opportunities for activity, growth and connection build confidence and independence.
Community
Our activities bring people together and create shared experiences.
Respect
Everyone is treated with respect, and every person's strengths are recognised.
Collaboration
We work closely with partners, supporters and participants.
Our mission
To connect people who want to ride with people who can, by:
- Offering adaptive cycling programs that pair qualified pilot cyclists with people who cannot cycle independently.
- Providing equipment, materials, training programs and services to partners so they can run assisted cycling.
- Collaborating with charities, government and non-government organisations, and individuals to fundraise and coordinate assisted cycling.
Our team
Alan Corven
Director
President of the Central Coast Bicycle User Group for over a decade and the driver of the RidesAssist Program, with a background in IT, business analysis and strategic planning.
Karen Hackett
Director
A commercial lawyer with expertise in business law, estate planning and compliance, including workplace safety and construction law. Karen keeps our governance strong as we grow.
Will O'Neil
Community Outreach Manager
Diagnosed with retinitis pigmentosa, Will has never let vision loss dim his passion for cycling. He channels that lived experience into creating inclusive opportunities for all.
Adele Pearson
Member Program Coordinator
Adele keeps our programs running smoothly, making it easier for the community to connect, grow and participate.
Our funding
We receive no general government funding or grants. Fundraising, individual donations and corporate sponsors pay for the program.
Your support delivers free community rides, builds affiliations with clubs across Australia, trains volunteers, and maintains bikes and adaptive equipment.
Governance
Our constitution sets out our purpose, structure and governance, including membership, decision making and the responsibilities of our board.
For a copy of our key policies, email adele@ridingtogether.org.
