Ossie Nicholson: world record holder
Tasmanian-born “Ossie” Nicholson bursts through the paper “mile post”, marking the end of his 36,007-mile (58,000 km) ride to break the world record for Twelve Months’ Continuous Riding.
Australian cycling legend Hubert “Oppy” Opperman, who accompanied him over the latter stages of his ride, is seen in the white cap just behind the paper “mile post”. Ossie, riding the first derailleur (variable ratio gearing system) in Australia, overcame three severe falls, sickness, influenza and being hit by a car, to break the record of Great Britain’s Arthur Humbles by 6,000 miles. This photo is taken outside the headquarters of Melbourne-based bicycle manufacturer Malvern Star, located at 283 Elizabeth Street.
MCK133 Inkjet print by John Gollings on Canson Platine Fibre Rag
Published: The Age 31 October 1933
Featured in "Newsworthy: Melbourne in photographs 1933-1936" exhibition at East Melbourne Library, October to December 2023. Exhibition caption by project volunteer, Louise McKenzie.