Irish Cycling Campaign (formerly Cyclist.ie) has been part of the Global Green area of the Electric picnic festival in Stradbally, County Laois, since 2009. In this report, Rory Maguire (Active Travel Officer with An Taisce) shares some insights into how this year’s incredible event unfolded.
Nestled in the Global Green area at Electric Picnic, our stall became a beacon for curious minds interested in sustainable transport, alternative art, and community building. The Global Green area, a wonderland of creative installations, education spaces, and eco-friendly infrastructure, provided the perfect backdrop for our advocacy efforts. It was inspiring to meet so many festival-goers eager to learn more about the Irish Cycling Campaign and the future of cycling in Ireland.
Rory testing out the kit!
I had the pleasure of volunteering alongside an energetic and passionate crew, including Donna, Marie, Joe, Taha and Laragh. In the intensely chaotic and fun-filled atmosphere of Electric Picnic, our team managed to put together various activities and a welcoming space which led to lively discussions about diverse cycling experiences, with insights shared about the cycling infrastructure or the lack thereof in locations all around Ireland and abroad.
The most fun and interest came thanks to Donna’s Penny Farthing and Uni-Cycle. Luckily everyone survived the experience. Only some walked away with potentially bruised tailbones, but worth the laughter and surely soothed by subsequent afternoon pints. Donna also gave an inspiring speech alongside a panel of sustainability leaders explaining the Irish Cycling Campaign’s aims, how we work for you, and the successes we’ve celebrated to date. A very powerful message was articulated on changing the perception of those who choose to cycle, and our hopes to create a safe, affordable and sustainable system of transport for people of all abilities.
The feedback we received throughout the weekend was overwhelmingly positive. Many festival-goers signed up for our newsletter to find out more about their most local cycle campaigning groups and to stay informed about events and more. Even those rare few who expressed scepticism or negative opinions about cycling or new infrastructure found themselves engaged in meaningful conversations, often softened by their time on the Penny Farthing (which I suspect may be the key to winning the hearts of the non-believers).
Donna in full flight representing Irish Cycling Campaign
A recurring theme in our conversations was the high regard many people held for the cycling infrastructure and bike culture they had experienced during Erasmus+ exchanges across Europe. This exposure had given them hope for what is possible in Ireland, a sentiment that aligns well with the vision and goals of the Irish Cycling Campaign.
As we packed up our stall at the end of the festival, we left Stradbally with a renewed sense of optimism. The enthusiasm and support we encountered at Electric Picnic underscored the growing momentum for cycling advocacy in Ireland.
