Our Story
At Addventageous, we believe in the transformative power of cycling to connect communities, improve well-being, and create sustainable change. Founded with a passion for empowering individuals, our mission is to provide opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds, and abilities to experience the joy and benefits of cycling.
From our roots in promoting cycling safety and skills for women through our "Her Cycling Connections" initiative, we’ve grown to offer a range of programs that foster confidence, build leadership, and advocate for inclusivity. Whether it's helping beginners gain cycling skills, guiding rusty riders back to the saddle, or providing professional development through our bike maintenance workshops, our goal is to support everyone in their journey toward becoming confident, independent cyclists.
Our story is shaped by a commitment to fostering safer, healthier communities. We collaborate with schools, local councils, and businesses to promote cycling as an accessible, eco-friendly, and enjoyable mode of transport. Through these partnerships, we create environments that support active living, reduce carbon footprints, and encourage sustainable transport options.
As an inclusive organisation, we also pride ourselves on welcoming people from all walks of life, including NDIS clients, to participate in our programs. We believe that cycling should be for everyone, and we work hard to ensure our services are accessible, welcoming, and empowering for all.
Join us as we continue to build a connected community of confident cyclists who are passionate about making a positive impact on their health, their environment, and their world. At Addventageous, every ride is a step toward a brighter, more sustainable future.
Our Values
Empowerment
We believe in equipping individuals with the skills, confidence, and support needed to become self-reliant cyclists, fostering a sense of agency and achievement.
Inclusivity
We are committed to creating an accessible and welcoming environment for all, breaking down barriers and ensuring everyone has equal opportunities to participate and succeed in cycling.
Community
We value the strength of community connections and actively work to build supportive networks where cyclists can learn from each other, share experiences, and support one another.
Sustainability
We prioritize environmentally friendly practices and advocate for cycling as a sustainable, eco-friendly mode of transportation that benefits individuals and the planet.
Safety
Safety is at the core of everything we do, from education and training to advocacy and community-building. We strive to create a culture of safety that empowers riders and enhances the well-being of the broader community.
Leadership
We encourage individuals to step into leadership roles, supporting them with training and mentorship so they can lead others and advocate for positive change in cycling and transport.
Advocacy
We are dedicated to raising awareness and influencing policies that support accessible, inclusive, and safe cycling infrastructure and culture, aiming to create lasting impact on both local and systemic levels.
Growth & Development
We believe in continuous learning and improvement, both individually and collectively, fostering a culture that values growth, adaptability, and progress.
Meet Charlene Bordley:
A Trailblazer in Cycling Advocacy and Community Development
Charlene Bordley, the founder of Addventageous, is not just a cyclist; she is a visionary leader committed to making a lasting impact on the cycling community and beyond. With a wealth of experience and a heart full of passion, Charlene has dedicated her life to promoting cycling, fostering inclusivity, and creating positive social change in Western Sydney.
Charlene's achievements and impact speak volumes about her commitment to creating a more sustainable and equitable future through cycling. Her program, "Her Cycling Connections," has broken down cultural barriers and empowered women to embrace cycling, significantly increasing women's cycling participation. As an advocate for safe cycling infrastructure, Charlene has tirelessly worked to improve accessibility and security for cyclists of all genders and abilities.
As Captain of the Parramatta Cycling Without Age Chapter, Charlene has championed inclusivity, boosted community engagement, and brought joy to passengers and carers alike. Her collaboration with Aboriginal communities underscores her commitment to preserving cultural heritage and promoting diversity in cycling.
Charlene's innovative approaches, such as creating programs to tackle cultural barriers and actively engaging with the community, demonstrate her forward-thinking approach to community development. Her dedication to environmental awareness and sustainability through cycling, as exemplified by her role as a River Keeper Ambassador, is truly commendable.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including relocations and establishing the Parramatta Bike Hub, Charlene has remained resilient and determined in her mission. Her accomplishments, including the successful launch of the Community Bike Library and the organisation of World Bike Day celebrations, highlight her adaptability and unwavering commitment to promoting cycling in Parramatta.
In summary, Charlene Bordley's leadership, innovation, and dedication have transformed the cycling landscape in Western Sydney. Her tireless efforts to promote cycling, foster inclusivity, and create positive social change have made her a true trailblazer in the cycling community. We congratulate Charlene on receiving the Leadership Luminary Cycling Award from We Ride Australia, which is a testament to her outstanding contributions to the cycling community.
Why
Riding a bike increases physical health, cognitive skills and mobility. An increase in the number of people riding bikes for commuting also reduces emissions and congestion on roads. Inhibitors to riding include a lack of confidence, safety concerns and a need for more infrastructure or knowledge about the rideability of Greater Parramatta or Western Sydney.
How
“We started for women. Empowering women to ride a bike changes the perception of safety, allowing their children to ride, too. Once the children can ride, you see a community of safe riders grow up together.”
Charlene Bordley (Founder).
What
Addventageous answers to these deterrents by providing bike confidence workshops, bike maintenance workshops, and bike skills sessions while advocating for the social capital benefits of riding a bike through our partnerships and community initiatives.