Police on bikes since 1896
Published: 21st of April 2016, My Sunshine Coast
Brisbane - Police bicycle patrols are making a comeback. People may have seen more police on bicycle patrols in recent times. There are currently around 100 police officers on the Sunshine Coast trained to utilise a fleet of 20+ bicycles.
A police bicycle course was conducted recently on the Sunshine Coast to provide selected officers with the necessary skills to be able to effectively conduct police bicycle patrols.
The courses are run regularly to ensure a sufficient number of officers are trained for deployment when needed.
The bicycle course trains police in traffic laws and legislation, effective patrolling and interception techniques, management of hazards and dangers, night riding, obstacle negotiation, off-road and on-road cycling techniques, maintenance, health and nutrition.
Bicycles are an effective tool for police as they are able to access places that vehicles can't, they complement foot and vehicle patrols, they are silent and have the added benefit or being able to traverse various terrain easier than other modes of transport.
Bicycle patrols are regularly utilised to patrol around schools, shopping centres and public spaces, traffic operations, patrolling crash and crime hot spots, assist in search and rescue, major events and public order events, as well as in community initiatives such as the annual Bike Week and Ride 2 School day events.
Bicycles were first introduced in the QPS in 1896 when they cost thirteen pounds each and were more expensive than a horse at the time.
Bicycles are just one form of transport in the varied police fleet which also includes segways, ATVs, motorcycles (road and off –road), vessels and horses.
And yes, there is a lycra police uniform. Officers trained to ride police bicycles wear the uniform whilst conducting bicycle patrols. Keep an eye out in your local area for our officers on bicycles.