AusCycling welcomes new and returning members to the National Advisory Council

AusCycling is pleased to announce the appointment of 12 members to its National Advisory Council (NAC) for the next two years. These appointments mark an important step in advancing AusCycling’s Horizon Two: Accelerate Growth strategy, ensuring that voices from across the cycling community continue to shape the future of the sport.

The NAC aims to play a critical role in guiding the implementation of AusCycling’s strategy, particularly by supporting stronger partnerships with clubs and communities, enhancing grassroots participation, and driving alignment across the organisation’s national and state-level initiatives.

“The newly appointed Council brings together a diverse and experienced group of cycling leaders from across Australia,” Rob Nelson, National Advisory Council Chair said.

“We have great blend of incumbents and new faces further strengthening the Council’s ability to provide the board a reliable platform to advise on the delivery and aspirations of Horizon Two and support the growth of of our cycling communities.’”

The new Council reflects AusCycling’s commitment to regional representation, discipline diversity, and gender balance. Five of the reappointed members bring valued continuity and institutional knowledge, while new appointees add fresh insights and perspectives.

Notably, Brad Bellette of the Red Centre BMX Club (NT) returns for a second term, continuing his passionate advocacy for BMX and remote community riders.

“It’s an honour to be reappointed. The NAC has become a valuable platform for representing riders and clubs, especially those in more remote regions,” Bellette said.

“I look forward to building on the momentum of the past two years.’”

Among the new appointees is Linda Benny from Garigal Gorillas Inc. (NSW), a leader in the mountain biking community with strong ties to club development and inclusive trail access.

“I’m thrilled to join the NAC, representing the collective voice of grassroots mountain biking and our wider community,” Benny said.

“It’s a privilege to contribute to an organisation dedicated to progressing our sport and helping to make it more inclusive, accessible, and sustainable for riders everywhere.’”

The NAC will support the delivery of Horizon Two: Accelerate Growth, a key phase of AusCycling’s United Strategy 2032, which aims to dramatically increase participation, strengthen club networks, and enhance the performance and sustainability of Australian cycling.

2025–2027 National Advisory Council Members:

· Penny Ainger – Southside BMX Club (WA)

· Brad Bellette – Red Centre BMX Club (NT)*

· Linda Benny – Garigal Gorillas Inc (NSW)

· James Buchannan – Midland Cycle Club (WA)*

· Mathew Cork – Hamilton Wheelers Cycling Club (Qld)

· Leeza Fuzi – Randwick Botany Cycling Club (NSW)

· Jeff Hughes – Canberra Off-Road Cyclists (ACT)*

· Linda Hunter – Carnegie Caulfield Cycling Club (Vic)

· James McKee – Launceston City Cycling Club (Tas)*

· John O’Brien – Inside Line Inc (SA)

· Allie Smith – Outlook Riders Alliance Inc (Qld)

· Jennifer Szuster – Hawthorn Cycling Club (Vic)*

(*denotes reappointed member)

The appointments followed a competitive expression of interest process with 45 applications received. Selection was based on key principles including continuity, discipline representation, state and territory coverage, gender balance, and skills alignment with Council functions.

AusCycling extends its sincere thanks to all applicants and acknowledges the valuable contributions of outgoing Council members whose terms conclude in July 2025.

Further information about the National Advisory Council - including its Charter - is on the AusCycling governance webpage (https://auscycling.org.au/about/governance). You can contact the NAC at [email protected].