Tia Brennen collects and fixes unwanted bikes for children less fortunate

SHE is just nine years old, but Tia Brennen knows a thing or two about generosity and living an active life.

SHE is just nine years old, but Tia Brennen knows a thing or two about generosity and living an active life.

The Minto Public School student started collecting unwanted and run-down bicycles four months ago, and then repaired them — with help from her father, Simon, and younger sister, Harmony, 5, — to give to children less fortunate in the Macarthur region.

The idea started when Tia and her family were at their caravan park at Swan Lake on the South Coast.

“I saw all these bikes at the rubbish bins and I asked my mum (Clarrisa) if I could take the bikes home,” Tia, of Minto, said. “I wanted to give the bikes to kids that need them and I want them to have fun and do some exercise and be healthy.

“I like riding my bike and I thought others should have fun too. My bike’s name is Storm Fly.”

The youngster has already donated at least 30 bikes to charities in the area including The Benevolent Society, Campbelltown, UnitingCare Burnside Macarthur, The Salvation Army at Macquarie Fields, and MDSI Macarthur Diversity Services Initiative.

“My sister and I wash the bikes and my dad fixes them by pumping up the tyres and fixing the seats,” Tia said.

“My sister will try them out to see if they are working properly. I feel very proud of myself and happy that kids are able to do the same thing as me. I’m helping children get healthy and outdoors.”

Residents with unwanted bikes are encouraged to drop them off at the PCYC at Minto or the Ron Moore Community Centre at Minto when dates are announced on the TELL TIA for CHARITY-recycled bikes for kids Facebook page.

“We have had around 40 bikes donated and have given away around 30,” Mrs Brennen said. “Donations are coming in all the time from the generous public, and we announce collection days on the Facebook page.

“Tia rides her bike all the time and wishes every child had a bike. She is very kind and also donates her time at a community centre sorting out books and other items for charities.”

Tia was invited to the Macquarie Fields police Claymore Connects Pushbike Expo community event last week and donated 11 bikes.

“We are grateful for the support from Macquarie Fields police and Fiona McKinnon from Minto on the Go,” Mrs Brennen said.