By Sama Marwan,
In the heart of Tasmania, a powerful movement is helping young people swap trouble for transformation—one bike at a time. The Tasmanian Bike Collective (TBC), founded by Anthony “Ant” Edler over 15 years ago, is not just teaching youth how to fix bicycles, but how to rebuild their futures.
Operating in communities like Risdon Vale, Huon Valley, and Clarence Plains, the TBC engages over 80 at-risk youth every week. These are teens who might otherwise be caught in a cycle of crime and disconnection. Instead, they are now learning life skills, building friendships, and discovering purpose—all through the humble bicycle.
“Punishment doesn’t work. Prevention does,” says Edler, referencing alarming statistics from Queensland that show 96% of young offenders reoffend within a year. This is why the TBC champions restorative justice and early intervention, aligning with Tasmania’s Youth Justice Blueprint 2024–2034.
Young people involved in the program report feeling safer, more connected, and more hopeful. They aren’t just learning how to repair bikes—they’re learning how to repair trust, confidence, and direction in life.
Despite their success, TBC is calling for greater support and funding. With more resources, they could expand their reach and help even more youth avoid the justice system altogether.
Because sometimes, the road to a better life begins with two wheels.
