TRISHAW BROADENS HORIZONS

CRUISING through Townsville’s Palmetum feeling the wind on his face, John Mitchell, 90, is one of many Good Shepherd Nursing home residents reconnecting with nature thanks to a purpose-built electric-assist trishaw.

The second trishaw of its kind for Townsville, it is part of the worldwide Cycling Without Age movement to give older people the opportunity to go for a bike ride and socialise with volunteers.

“It’s a bit of an unusual but exciting ride. It’s beautiful going through the Palmetum, and we appreciate having this new bike to go for rides on,” Mr Mitchell said.

Good Shepherd Nursing Home chief executive Brian Matthews said the purchase was made possible after they successfully applied for a $17,500 Good for Good Community Grant from Queensland Country Bank.

Applications for the 2021 Queensland Country Good for Good Community Grants are now open and close 5pm Tuesday, October 5. Further information and an eligibility checklist are available at the address www.queenslandcountry.bank.

Volunteer and QCB manager Mario Romeo gives Verna and John Mitchell a lift on the Trishaw. Picture: Supplied.