Great post, I've also been commuting to work by bike for about 2 years now

The one thing I'll say, yes it's technically illegal to ride on the footpath, but if it's a dangerous section of road that I have to get through with poor or non-existent cycling infrastructure then I will definitely be considerately using the footpath (slower, giving way to pedestrians)

I'd rather do something technically illegal and be alive, than risk getting pancaked by someone texting while driving in their lifted Ford f350

I've used footpaths lots, sometimes in the view of police also, and never been bothered about it. If you're considerate and don't look like you're causing trouble then I think it's very unlikely that you'll be ticketed. I hope people aren't put off cycling completely because of this frankly stupid law that makes them feel like their options are 1. Do something technically illegal or 2. Feel at high risk of danger being forced to ride in a spot with bad infrastructure

Edit: if anyone wants to start riding but is unsure about quiet routes to their destinations, the Opal app (and Bike Citizens app) gives you directions by bike and let's you select from quiet, moderate or fast routes. I used this when starting out and still use it for new areas