Hundreds of teenagers riding modified e-bikes have descended upon Brisbane's central business district, causing widespread disruption by blocking traffic, taunting police officers, and alarming motorists and local workers. The large group of riders assembled at Victoria Park on Sunday before embarking on a chaotic journey through the park, tunnels, across the Story Bridge, and around The Star Hotel and Casino.
Chaotic Scenes Unfold
Witnesses reported that the riders performed wheelies, swarmed intersections, and weaved dangerously around cars and police vehicles as traffic backed up across the CBD. Under Queensland road rules, electric bikes and scooters are prohibited from entering tunnels or traveling on multi-lane roads. Despite this, the group continued their reckless behavior.
Police Response
Police vehicles attempted to intercept the riders as sirens blared through the streets, but officers were quickly outnumbered as the group scattered around patrol cars and continued through traffic. Chief Superintendent Kylie Rigg stated that riders would only be intercepted when it was safe to do so, adding, "Certainly what we see is a real lack of regard for the law. These e-bike riders are not stopping for police."
Witness Accounts
Witness Matthew Knott observed the scene from above and noted, "We saw probably about four or five cop cars in total. They just get around them … you can’t really do anything … there’s hundreds of them." He also claimed that one rider struck his vehicle during the chaos, saying, "One of them hit our mirror and there was another one knocking on the passenger window."
A bus driver caught in the middle of the group described the behavior as "absolutely disgusting," adding, "They’re taking up the whole road … it shouldn’t be allowed." A nearby cafe worker expressed concern for customers, stating, "It was just like crazy. I just tried to make sure they not try to touch our customer."
Social Media Footage
Riders posted footage of the mass e-bike gathering across social media platforms as police attempted to intercept the group. The videos show hundreds of teenagers weaving through traffic and performing stunts, further highlighting the scale of the disruption.
Calls for Tougher Action
No arrests or charges had been announced as investigations continued on Monday. The large gatherings of e-bike riders are becoming a weekly occurrence in Brisbane, with frustrated locals saying the teenagers appear to be treating the CBD like their "personal playground." The chaotic ride has sparked calls for tougher action, with Gold Coast Mayor Tom Tate suggesting that the teenagers should be banned from gathering in groups, similar to outlaw motorcycle gangs. Stronger e-bike laws, including proposed age and speed restrictions, are also currently before Queensland parliament.
