In the quiet suburb of Manly Vale, NSW, one man is proving that small actions can have a big impact.
Alan Ventress, a 75-year-old retiree, has become something of a local hero, dedicating his time and energy to rescuing abandoned bicycles and giving them new life. His remarkable journey began during the COVID-19 pandemic, a period that offered him the time to reflect on waste, community, and how he could make a difference.
It all started when Alan noticed an increasing number of bicycles left out for council cleanups, often in good condition or requiring only minor repairs. Disheartened by the wasteful habits of what he calls a ‘throwaway society’, Alan felt compelled to act.