Wendy was joined by 14 fellow riders, most of whom are over 60, and she hopes their example will inspire others not only to stay fit, but also promote awareness for bike safety within the community.

Well known for her involvement in both education and hockey Dr Hastings said she is trying to draw attention to the fact that people like her - who are grandmothers, mothers, sisters aunts, fathers, and grandfathers - ride because they want to stay fit and socialise with like-minded folk .

"Most importantly we want to stay well and stay out of hospital as we get older," she said.

Dr Hastings, who was diagnosed, and recovered from cancer several years ago, said her fitness, and support from fellow riders, was a big part of her recovery.

"I'm a cancer survivor and it was cycling that allowed me to be well before my diagnosis and stay well and connected through chemo and radiation therapy.

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"There are lots of these kinds of stories out there - whether its recovering from a physical illness or coping with a mental health issue, cycling is a very important means of staying strong.

"For me exercise was so important (while fighting cancer).

"There's a saying; you have to be well to be sick. I had to be physically strong to fight cancer, if you're depleted you can't tolerate the chemo,' she said.

"The group I ride with all support one another, when I had cancer, they were a support network for me. If I needed someone to take me to Orange (for treatment), someone was always there," she said.

Dr Hastings said exercise is equally important for mental health, and riding is an easy, accessible and cheap way for many people to stay mentally well.

"For some people, the bike groups are the equivalent of a Men's Shed."

Dr Hastings also wanted to take the opportunity to raise awareness for the safety of bike riders in the city.

"There are hundreds of cyclists of all shapes and ages in Bathurst who ride for many different reasons, and we all want Bathurst to be a safe place for pedestrians and cyclists."