Up-Cycles Charitable Trust received $8,000 to expand their Community of Bike Ambassadors (COBA) programme in Otago Community Trusts’ (OCT) April funding round.  

The programme equips young people with bike skills, leadership abilities, and first aid know how, enabling them to assist others on Central's trails.

Project director and co-founder Chris Foggin (Foggie) said the aim was to deliver to 60 rangatahi this year.

“[It] will undoubtedly make a difference in our community.

"We have already seen attendees from previous cohorts using their skills on our trail network."

Currently, the programme will be delivered to six schools across Central Otago, with additional schools indicating interest. Each ambassador receives essential equipment including a first aid kit, backpack, and cycle tools.

Schools involved so far in 2025 are Alexandra Primary School, St Gerard’s School, Clyde School, Omakau School, Cromwell College and The Terrace School. 

Foggie said the trust would be applying for more funding support including Sport Otago’s Tū Manawa Active Aotearoa Fund. 

“All going to plan it will be halfway through term three that things will be kicking off in our schools.”

OCT announced that $1,177,317 has been distributed to 35 community groups across the region in its April grants round.

These funds will support a wide range of initiatives that enhance the wellbeing of communities throughout Otago.

Other grants for Central and Otago were in social services and arts, culture and environmental regeneration. 

Locally, $2,500 went to the Central Otago Regional Choir to support music initiatives in this round too.

Read more: Serendipity for rangitahi bike ambassadors.

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