As far as I know in Victoria cyclists are only allowed to ride two abreast on double lane roads, otherwise is single file.
When I was taught to ride...and I mean taught by the old guys in the bike club in Tassie in the mid eighties, car drivers did give a toot before overtaking...greated by a friendly wave by riders.
It is sad to see so many crap riders out there...usually in that horrible fluro orange or green, or even worse yellow, with cable ties sticking out the top of their helmets.
Bring back the good 'ol days
Matt