In the week leading up to World Car Free Day on 22 September Noosa residents and visitors pledged to swap out at least one car trip, together saving over 5000 kilometres of car travel and putting about 1 tonne less of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere. Going by bike or bus were the most popular alternatives with a few choosing to scooter, carpool or enjoy the Noosa Ferry. This inaugural #GoCarFreeNoosa was organised by Zero Emissions Noosa, with support from the Noosa Council, Tourism Noosa and the Noosa Biosphere Reserve Foundation. Thanks also to Noosa Ferry and Noosa ecoTekk for generously donating prizes.
22-month-old Charlie and his mum and dad, Nicky and Ben, were the major prize winners of this year’s competition to promote alternative travel. The family are Brisbanites who make regular trips to Noosa and the Sunshine Coast. “Charlie’s grown up on the beaches of Noosa. His first swim in the ocean was on Noosa Beach quickly followed by a lovely beach nap. We’ve walked the National Park together many times and explored the stunning beauty that is Tea Tree Bay Beach.”
Nicky and Ben made the decision to go completely car free in 2022. As Nicky explains, “We save thousands each year on car rego, insurance, petrol, parking, and servicing. It all adds up. We now spend less than $100 per month on transport.”
They also value the healthier lifestyle and the lack of stress, not having to worry about traffic congestion or circling to find a car park. Other changes in their lifestyle include a slower pace of life, getting to know their neighbours and neighbourhood better and doing small, local shops. And of course, it’s better for the planet. “We’re shrinking our footprint. We feel proud knowing our choices help create cleaner air for our kids.”
Their transport fleet now includes buses, scooters, trains, rideshares or walking. “We live more seasonally. We feel the rain, the crisp winter mornings, the scorching summer sun. Life has texture when you’re not sealed off behind glass.” They also believe that by going car free Charlie will learn more independence and skills – navigating buses, trains and footpaths teaches confidence, problem-solving, and street smarts from a young age.
“We’re really excited about the level of engagement from locals and tourists to the idea of going car free.” says Zero Emissions Noosa event organiser, Jenny Clement. “We had so much positive feedback from people we spoke to, especially around Hastings Street.”
“We know going car free is not easy, especially if you live in areas with limited public transport options. Change has to come from government and council to improve transport services and walking and cycling infrastructure, and events like World Car Free Day can create awareness and show there is demand.”
“Next year we promise to be bigger and bolder. Building on our experience this year, we aim to work with Council and other community groups and businesses to demonstrate what is possible.”
If you would like to follow Charlie, Nicky and Ben’s car free lifestyle on Instagram follow them @charliehateshiscarseat.
And to get involved locally to promote sustainable transport in Noosa, check out www.zeroemissionsnoosa.com.au or email info@zeroemissionsnoosa.com
