By Peter Douglas
Some call him ‘Mike’, others ‘councillor’ – but many more are starting to call him the ‘low-carbon councillor’.
Cr Clarke’s new nickname has come about because of his penchant for riding his beloved electric bike throughout the Yarra Ranges, while undertaking council-related duties.
From his home in Ferny Creek, he can be regularly seen pedalling his electric bike to the council offices in Lilydale, or to appointments with ratepayers or community groups throughout his own Lyster Ward.
Cr Clarke said his bid was not only born from a desire to be fitter, and to lower his carbon footprint, but to encourage others to follow his lead.
“Electric bikes are a great way to get around, not only for the environment but to keep fit,” Cr Clarke said.
“I’m feeling a lot fitter these days.
“It’s also more convenient than motorbikes or cycling, because you don’t need to change into leathers or lycra.
“I load up my backpack and away I go.”
Cr Clarke said he tried to ride his electric bike wherever possible.
But did he ride all the way out to Warburton, which hosted the most recent council meeting?
“No, I won’t be going that far,” Cr Clarke joked.
Meanwhile, he said he had recently finished work on a strategic plan for a revamped bus network for the Yarra Ranges.
Frustrated by what he believes is both an inadequate and under-used service, Cr Clarke has been working with various groups and individuals to prepare the plan.
In August, he is due to show the plan to Victorian Deputy Premier, James Merlino, and State Minister for Transport, Jacinta Allan.
“The present system is causing unnecessary isolation in the community,” he said.
“We’re looking for a purposeful, meaningful plan that will create a better service for the region.”
