Tasmania’s much-anticipated Pollie Pedal 2025 officially launched today, with riders embarking from Hagley Farm School in Launceston.

Her Excellency the Honourable Barbara Baker AC, Governor of Tasmania, Deputy Premier Guy Barnett, and Diabetes Australia Chief Operating Officer Craig Sedgman joined students and supporters to celebrate the event’s impact in raising funds and awareness for diabetes.

The inspiring three-day cycling event, which runs from February 28 to March 2, will see cyclists traverse over 300km of Tasmania’s stunning landscape, riding to support the 88,000 Tasmanians living with diabetes and prediabetes.

For Deputy Premier Barnett, an old boy of Hagley Farm School who lives with type 1 diabetes and takes part in Pollie Pedal every year, the event is a personal and community milestone.

Before he started cycling, Deputy Premier Barnett was delighted to meet Hagley Farm School Year 4 student Charlie Medwin and his parents, Karissa and Jesse. Charlie has been diagnosed with type 1 diabetes in April last year, and was a special representative of the diabetes community at the Pollie Pedal launch this morning.

Speaking at the launch, Mr Barnett emphasized the event’s importance beyond the cycling challenge.

“Pollie Pedal is about resilience, community, and the determination to make a difference. As someone who manages type 1 diabetes every day, I understand the significance of support, education, and research in changing lives,” Mr Barnett said.

“This ride is a powerful way to unite Tasmanians in our mission to reduce the impact of diabetes. Every turn of the pedals represents hope for those living with this condition. Whether you ride, donate, or cheer from the sidelines, your contribution matters.”

Diabetes Australia COO Craig Sedgman praised the Tasmanian community’s enduring commitment to the cause.

“Pollie Pedal is more than a fundraising event. It’s a movement of people coming together to drive change and create a healthier future,” Mr Sedgman said.

“We know that diabetes affects around two million Australians, and the numbers are rising. But through initiatives like Pollie Pedal, we can provide vital programs, invest in prevention, and support those already living with diabetes.

“Worryingly, rates of diabetes have increased by 32% nationally over the past decade.

“We need urgent action to stem the tide of this epidemic and support people who are living with diabetes. Community events like Pollie Pedal support us to do that important work,” he said.

Since its inception in 2006, Pollie Pedal has raised over $850,000, funding essential diabetes programs and research. The 2025 ride will take cyclists through Tasmania’s breathtaking Meander and Tamar Valleys, passing through seaside towns, rolling farmlands, and vibrant rural communities.

Pollie Pedal is open to cyclists of all abilities. Whether riding solo or forming a team, participants will not only experience Tasmania’s stunning backroads but also make a lasting impact on diabetes awareness and support.

Make a difference
To donate or learn more, visit: Pollie Pedal 2025 or email [email protected].

Fast Facts about Pollie Pedal Tasmania 2025:

• Dates: February 28 – March 2, 2025
• Who can participate? Cyclists of all skill levels
• Funds raised since 2006: Over $850,000
• Cause: Supporting Tasmanians living with diabetes and funding prevention efforts

About Diabetes Australia

Diabetes Australia is the national organisation supporting all people living with or at risk of diabetes. We put people first. We work in collaboration with member organisations, consumers, health professionals, researchers and the community.

For more information visit: www.diabetesaustralia.com.au