Eaglemont cyclist shares joy of Banyule’s two-wheeled latte club
Kelvin Chalmier, at 92, is more active than most of us. The inspirational cyclist, who still rides every day to see his wife, shares his secret to long health and why his local bike rider group is great for making friends.
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Eaglemont’s Kelvin Chalmier joined the Banyule Bike User Group five years ago when his wife, Gwen, had to move into a nursing home.
The 92-year-old rides to visit her in Alphington without fail, every day.
“I was lonely at home and wanted something to fill my time,” Mr Chalmier said.
“The group is a social activity with friendly people, we have a bit of a laugh.”
He attributed a positive attitude to his wellbeing and fitness, though he also doesn’t smoke or drink alcohol.
“I’ve made a practical habit to avoid any sort of tension,” he said.
Mr Chalmier and his wife Gwen built their house in Eaglemont in the 1950s, just one of four houses on the street.
Back then he said it was surrounded by paddocks and the road outside their house was just two wheels ruts.
The couple sold their car to buy materials and he would ride from Preston every weekend to work on the house.
Mr Chalmier saved up for his first bike by doing a paper delivery round.
He joined the subgroup of BUG, who call themselves the Latte group.
They go on up to 70km rides from Warringal Parklands twice a week and stop for a cappuccino and cake along the way.
They’ve tackled rides to Mordialloc, Williamstown and Carrum.
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Most of the other riders in the BUG are in their 60s and member Peter Gurney said Mr Chalmier was an inspiration.
“He’s terrific, he has no problem keeping up with the group and often outrides me,” he said.
“He’s a social, gentle and considerate rider.”
The Latte group will ride to Mont Albert on Friday, stopping for lunch to celebrate the nonagenarian’s birthday.
To join the group, visit their website or email banyulebug@yahoo.com.au
courtney.beaumont@news.com.au