The Victoria Park Transition Network and Vic Park Collective struck on the invention of medical physicist and science nut Jonathon Thwaites who has created a contraption comprising 15 exercise bikes claimed from metropolitan verge collections that, when ridden, provide enough energy to run a pop-up cinema.
The set-up also uses motors Thwaites has liberated from discarded Fisher and Paykel washing machines because they have the permanent magnets necessary for the cycling power source to function.
Network spokeswoman Eugenie Stockmann encouraged locals to ‘rock up’ to the Vic Park Bike Fest prepared to lend a hand to keep the movie showing.
‘Everyone is welcome to pedal, and there are very few rules: don’t spin the wheels, don’t cycle backwards, lift your hand if you want someone to swap in for you,’ she said.
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READ NOW‘There will be bikes for ladies, kids and even some with the ‘L’ sign.’
The event, made possible with a WestCycle grant and the support of several local businesses and the Town of Victoria Park, is designed to encourage the local use of bikes and will offer free bike check-ups, engraving by local police, bike poetry reading, and food and beverage vendors.
The Fest will start at 5pm with the screening at 7.30pm.