Volunteer Ride Leader - Neighbourly Ride

This role is advertised by Volunteer West, the volunteer resource centre of Australian Multicultural Community Services on behalf of Neighbourly Ride Foundation.

Organisation description:

Neighbourly Ride is a community cycling program that helps people become more active, socially connected, and confident riding in their local area.

Designed to be welcoming and inclusive, Neighbourly Ride brings together people of all ages and backgrounds through free, volunteer-led social bike rides. The program focuses on reducing social isolation, improving physical and mental wellbeing, and encouraging sustainable transport by making cycling accessible and enjoyable.

Since launching in 2025, more than 500 people have joined Neighbourly Ride, creating new friendships, discovering local neighbourhoods, and building confidence through regular community rides. At its heart, Neighbourly Ride is about using bicycles as a tool to strengthen communities, improve wellbeing, and help people feel connected to both their neighbourhood and each other.

Position description:

Volunteer Ride Leaders guide and support participants on short, leisurely community rides designed for riders of all abilities. The focus is on creating a fun, social, and supportive environment where participants can enjoy cycling, gain confidence, and connect with others.

Ride Leaders may lead from the front of the group or support riders from the back, helping ensure the group stays together and everyone enjoys the experience.

Key tasks include:

• Leading groups on planned social bike rides through local neighbourhoods and bike paths
• Supporting participants and ensuring everyone feels safe, comfortable, and included
• Providing clear and friendly guidance throughout the ride
• Encouraging conversation, confidence, and social connection among riders
• Helping manage the group in an outdoor environment
• Joining participants for a friendly coffee and chat after the ride

Please note: Ride Leaders do not need bike mechanical skills such as fixing punctures or changing tyres.

Location: Footscray and surrounding areas.

Skills required:

• Confident and competent cycling skills
• Friendly communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to support and engage with people from diverse backgrounds
• Passion for community wellbeing, active lifestyles, and social connection
• Leadership experience is desirable but not essential
• Comfortable using mobile technology and willing to learn the Neighbourly Ride app
• No formal qualifications are required, enthusiasm, patience, and a friendly attitude are what matter most!

Time required:

• Approximately 2 hours a week.
• Rides are held weekly every Sunday morning at 10:00am for 40 minutes.

Commitment required:

• Availability to lead one community ride per month.
• Ongoing commitment, with a preferred minimum commitment of 6 months.

Other requirements:

• Hold a current driver’s licence, demonstrating a sound understanding of road rules.
• Have a roadworthy bicycle and helmet.
• Possess a valid Working with Children Check.
• Complete a Police Check and ID verification as part of onboarding.
• Be of eligible age to lead or support rides.
• Demonstrate basic bike handling skills and have local area knowledge.

The following are welcomed but NOT essential:

• First Aid or CPR accreditation
• Working with Vulnerable People Check
• Mental Health First Aid training

Benefits volunteers will get from this role:

• Help people improve their confidence, wellbeing, and social connections
• Gain valuable leadership and volunteer experience
• Receive free Ride Leader training and ongoing support
• Access exclusive volunteer rides and community events
• Insurance cover while volunteering