E-BIKES 
Dear editor,

E-bikes are the weapon of choice for generations of those with “a need for speed!” Suddenly, silently, they race down our streets and pathways at top speed, often doubling their mates, without helmets or appropriate protective clothing, horns, without regard for those walking or riding on shared paths or roads.

Basically, a law unto themselves. No age limit is a disaster waiting to happen, with the inexperienced and immature vulnerable. Ownership does not mean competence. Our governments have permitted the sale of these motorised vehicles without registration, proof of age-specific ownership, or compulsory insurance to cover any obstacle or persons in their way!

There seems to be no age limit for riders, no P-plate systems for monitoring behaviour and no comeback if they destroy any vehicle or injure any innocent pedestrian in their way!  With Injuries or even death caused through total disregard for road rules, recklessness or inconsideration by E-bike riders, there is no opportunity for legal claims or compensation.

There are no rules or fines imposed on E-bike riders yet. This is an oversight by the powers that be, permitting these hoons to take over our streets with impunity. In doing monos or doubling or tripling passengers as if they are untouchable, they make their own rules.

Motorists are required to be licenced, experienced, registered, obeying the law. E-bike ownership has no such requirements for ownership and use, no age limit for the more powerful bikes and no regard for road rules governing legitimate, registered vehicles. Parents playing into the hands of these unregistered vehicles for their children need to be held accountable by law. Innocent victims should not be paying the ultimate price for government negligence.

E. Rowe,
Marcoola.
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YOUNGER SWIMMERS  
Dear editor,

There has been a concerning increase in child drownings across our state in recent years. Thankfully, my two-year-old grandson is progressing enthusiastically at his swimming lessons, but the broader picture of children’s swimming ability is alarming.

One in four schools no longer holds a swimming carnival as too many children can’t swim well enough to participate.  At most carnivals, children from about Year 2 upward are invited to swim one length of an Olympic pool if they believe they can. Increasingly, they can’t.

A 2025 Royal Life Saving Australia report revealed that almost half of Year 6 students cannot swim 50 metres and tread water for two minutes, the minimum safety benchmark for their age.

Even more concerning, nearly half of children aged 7–14 don’t meet the minimum safety skills expected of a six-year-old.

Worryingly, research shows parents often overestimate their child’s ability and underestimate their drowning risk – a sure recipe for a family tragedy.

So how does a nation that prides itself on being a “country of swimmers” turn the tide?
I suggest we stop treating swimming as an optional sport, but as a non-negotiable life skill.

If a child is already in high school, skills can still be learned and improved. This isn’t about becoming a nanny state. It’s about giving not only our children the best chance to stay safe, but also the lives of desperate family members who try to rescue youngsters when they get into difficulties

Garry Reynolds,
Peregian Springs.
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SONGS OF THE TIMES?  
Dear editor,

Pop culture is raving about the new hit song written by Whimsy Tilson titled  “Hope is on the Way “. Does anyone yet know who the backing band will be or who will have exclusive rights to its promotion? Fair dinkum!

Margaret Wilkie,
Peregian Beach.
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