Wollongong, Shellharbour and Kiama councils will be pedalling for health as part of the annual event that celebrates cycling and promotes the benefits of opting for a bike over September 12-20, 2015.

Events include the Shellharbour Bike About on September 13, the Kiama Classic Family Fun Bike Ride on September 19 and the Wollongong Ride the Gong on September 20.

It takes around five per cent of the materials and energy used to make a car to build a bike, and produces zero pollution when used.

Shellharbour Mayor Marianne Saliba said cycling had several health benefits and also a positive impact on the environment.

“The Illawarra region has some of the most scenic cycle paths in the state, which make it possible to ride from one city to the next along foreshore and country areas," Cr Saliba said.

Wollongong City Councillor George Takacs agreed adding that a bicycle friendly city was one of  council’s strategic priorities.

“Where we can, we are committed to creating new on road and off road bicycle shared paths or lanes. We are also currently conducting work on the Grand Pacific Walk which will eventually include shared pathway from Helensburgh in the north to Windang in the south," he said.

"This major north-south connection will allow cyclists to enjoy a ride along our beautiful coast.”

This will be the 14th Shellharbour Bike About event on Sunday, September 13 and includes three courses for all levels of cycling, a barbecue, live music, raffles and sumo suits. All courses start and finish, Reddall Parade Lake South between 10-1pm. 

Ride the Gong on Sunday, September 20 includes all age workshops, bike ID registration, test rides, barbecue and giveaways. It will be held at the Southern end of Stuart Park, North Wollongong between 10-2pm.

The 5km Kiama Classic Family Fun Bike Ride on Saturday 19 September will start at Black Beach, Kiama Harbour followed by a barbecue lunch. Registration is between 9am-10.30am. Admission is $2 per person or $5 per family and all proceeds are donated to the heart foundation.

For more information visit each of the council websites.