The Yarra Ranges Branch has extended an invitation to all Ulysses Club Canberra Branch members to a New Year’s Eve ride and celebration with them.
Date: 31st December 2014
Altered Departure Time!!
Meet at: Caltex Hume at 9:15am for a 9.30am Departure
Contact Mick on 0412 134376
To stay overnight, book your own accommodation, or come for a day ride
A special mention to Maritta for a brilliant night’s dinner last night at Walsh’s
and a job well done!
Ulysses Club, Canberra Branch Website
Monday, December 29, 2014
Sunday, December 21, 2014
Chomp’n’Chat to Wee Jasper (not!) – Lake Burrinjuck, 21 December 2014
This ride was supposed to be for lunch at ‘The Stables’ – Wee Jasper pub. Rang the pub on the Friday to find out the pub is up for sale, and no meals can be found elsewhere at Wee Jasper. So a change of venue was proposed and put to Gary Mac for promulgation on The Blog.
With Christmas holidays approaching, the servo at Lake Burrinjuck Recreation Reserve would be well stocked for burgers, fish and chips and pizzas in readiness for the hordes of hungry holiday makers with boats off all sorts, and so it shall be...
We met at Caltex Nicholls 0945 for a 1000 start in fine weather, which promised to be quite a warm day of 30C or thereabouts.
The ride brief went like this: “I know the road to Burrinjuck, although sealed, is a challenge – especially given that now is the time for crazy 4WD owners with ski boats that are as big as the road is wide. What we have going for us is that if there are boat trailers on the road, we’re with the flow. 20km out, the road narrows, the scenery is nice but don’t get distracted by it, keep to your side and use the convex mirrors that are placed on the tight corners.... and by the way, there is a day entry fee to the Park of $5 per bike” (small oversight – it’s one way in, and the same road out, so what if we meet these mad 4WD’s on the way back up the hill?).
We set off at a leisurely pace, with Peter Arday, Daryl, Kim turning off at the Burley Griffin Way as they had decided to go to Harden.
We gathered by the roadside immediately after turning off the Hume onto the Burrinjuck road to make sure all ten bikes are with us, and dropped the pace back to the posted limit of 80kmh till a right hand sweeper and the 60kmh limit sign that signals the start of the run down into the valley.
What a lovely run down – no boats, no deadfall on the road (we haven’t had many windy days lately), watching the convex safety mirrors and before long we were at the park entrance (don’t go straight ahead just before the entrance – it takes you to the wall and the road is closed, and there is little opportunity to turn around). The entrance is well signposted with a sharp left turn. We gathered at the entrance, paid our entry fee and the park rangers opened the boom gates for us.
We parked the bikes in the shade near the main boat ramp, checked the time and realised it’s only 1130, and too early for lunch (by the way, it’s exactly 100km from Caltex Nicholls to the boat ramp). So I took the troupe on a slow (? – we’re all out of shape!) stroll through the light scrub and foreshore to the Carrols Creek campground, where we took in the nice views and a bit of a chat, took some photo’s and then set about the walk back to the Servo/shop for lunch.
It is here that David decided to show us how to do a ‘ninja roll’ on making his way down to the foreshore. What we saw was a tumble, a graceful roll, and anywhere else it would have been fine – except everywhere you look is rocky ground. As a result, David was missing some bark from both his hands, and a nasty bump was developing. A little shaken, we (mostly David!) had a bit of a rest and then headed to the shop for lunch. The ‘burger with the lot’ at $8.50 was a good choice – huge! Others had F&C or BLT’s, and before long we headed back out.
No boats on the way back up, and we stopped just before crossing onto the Hume again to see how David’s hands are holding up.
A few of us stopped at the George Harcourt Inn for a beer before breaking off for home. A pleasant day out with fellow riders, thanks folks. Have a safe Christmas and we’ll ride again soon.
Chris
Riders
With Christmas holidays approaching, the servo at Lake Burrinjuck Recreation Reserve would be well stocked for burgers, fish and chips and pizzas in readiness for the hordes of hungry holiday makers with boats off all sorts, and so it shall be...
We met at Caltex Nicholls 0945 for a 1000 start in fine weather, which promised to be quite a warm day of 30C or thereabouts.
The ride brief went like this: “I know the road to Burrinjuck, although sealed, is a challenge – especially given that now is the time for crazy 4WD owners with ski boats that are as big as the road is wide. What we have going for us is that if there are boat trailers on the road, we’re with the flow. 20km out, the road narrows, the scenery is nice but don’t get distracted by it, keep to your side and use the convex mirrors that are placed on the tight corners.... and by the way, there is a day entry fee to the Park of $5 per bike” (small oversight – it’s one way in, and the same road out, so what if we meet these mad 4WD’s on the way back up the hill?).
We set off at a leisurely pace, with Peter Arday, Daryl, Kim turning off at the Burley Griffin Way as they had decided to go to Harden.
We gathered by the roadside immediately after turning off the Hume onto the Burrinjuck road to make sure all ten bikes are with us, and dropped the pace back to the posted limit of 80kmh till a right hand sweeper and the 60kmh limit sign that signals the start of the run down into the valley.
What a lovely run down – no boats, no deadfall on the road (we haven’t had many windy days lately), watching the convex safety mirrors and before long we were at the park entrance (don’t go straight ahead just before the entrance – it takes you to the wall and the road is closed, and there is little opportunity to turn around). The entrance is well signposted with a sharp left turn. We gathered at the entrance, paid our entry fee and the park rangers opened the boom gates for us.
 |
| Troupe observed in light scrub |
We parked the bikes in the shade near the main boat ramp, checked the time and realised it’s only 1130, and too early for lunch (by the way, it’s exactly 100km from Caltex Nicholls to the boat ramp). So I took the troupe on a slow (? – we’re all out of shape!) stroll through the light scrub and foreshore to the Carrols Creek campground, where we took in the nice views and a bit of a chat, took some photo’s and then set about the walk back to the Servo/shop for lunch.
It is here that David decided to show us how to do a ‘ninja roll’ on making his way down to the foreshore. What we saw was a tumble, a graceful roll, and anywhere else it would have been fine – except everywhere you look is rocky ground. As a result, David was missing some bark from both his hands, and a nasty bump was developing. A little shaken, we (mostly David!) had a bit of a rest and then headed to the shop for lunch. The ‘burger with the lot’ at $8.50 was a good choice – huge! Others had F&C or BLT’s, and before long we headed back out.
No boats on the way back up, and we stopped just before crossing onto the Hume again to see how David’s hands are holding up.
A few of us stopped at the George Harcourt Inn for a beer before breaking off for home. A pleasant day out with fellow riders, thanks folks. Have a safe Christmas and we’ll ride again soon.
Chris
Riders
- Chris Dietzel: Kawasaki GTR1400 (ride leader)
- Chas Towie: Honda ST1300I
- Neil Goldfinch: Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird
- David Jansen: Triumph Tiger Explorer
- Mark and Cathy Walker: Honda NT700V Deauville.
- Karen Clarke: Yamaha Roadliner
- Rob Clarke: Yamaha FJR1300
- Andrew Campbell: Kawasaki ZX14R
- Arthur Mc. Honda
- Phil D. Triumph Bonneville
- Peter Arday: Honda ST1300
- Daryl Pailin: GL1800
- Kim Moorey: BMW F700GS
Friday, December 19, 2014
Update for the Wee Jaspar Ride - Sunday, Dec 21, 2014
Chis D who is the ride leader for the day advises Wee Jasper pub is up for sale, and no other options for eating in WJ, unless
we just go there, then back to Yass, and eat at Yass.
Chris proposes an alternative
ride location to Lake Burrinjuck resort.
This may entail a day visit
fee ($5 for bikes previously)
Road is sealed all the way, and is a challenging narrow, winding
road the last 20km in. The Servo at the resort does great burgers and
pizzas, and fish & chips. There will be no shortage of food now
being so close to Christmas...
BTW,
the road to Wee Jasper is sealed all the way from Yass, but if on the
return leg you turn right onto Mountain Creek Road, both options from
here back to the Canberra have sections of dirt
(Left onto Fairlight road would see
about 3km of dirt (comes into Uriarra Crossing), and continuing straight
ahead on Mountain Creek Road into Uriarra has about 9km of dirt.)
Monday, December 15, 2014
Thredbo Ride 14 December '14.
Riders were:
Garry – Rider Leader
Thredbo Ride 14/12/14.
- Garry McCurley – VFR1200
- Natalie TeBay – VFR1200
- Darryl Cullen – 1250 Bandit
- Adam Kral – GSXR 1100
- Neil Goldfinch – CBR1100XX
- Gary Thomas – DL650
- Graham Williams – VT750
- David Greig DL650
- Manfred Halton – BMW1200.
The ride left Hume Caltex at 08:30am in beautiful weather. We headed to Jindabyne for fuel, Kosciusko National Park passes & morning tea.
On our way
to Jindabyne we had a very enjoyable ride through some very pretty
countryside with warm temperatures & sunny blue skies.
We had a
very pleasant morning tea at Jindabyne sitting under an umbrella on the
outside deck area at the coffee shop located in the same building as the
National Parks Office.
After morning tea the ride up to Thredbo was also very enjoyable.
While
riding through the park we sighted an unfriendly snake on the road who
had a bit of a strike at a few of the group as we rode past.
On arrival at Thredbo we parked the bikes & headed to the Hotel for a very nice lunch.
Before leaving Hume there was a report that the weather in Thredbo was going to be cold & windy. Fortunately for us when we arrived in Thredbo the weather was very sunny, warm & no wind.
However, while eating lunch we could see the weather was changing out on the horizon. In order to beat the bad weather we did not stay too long in Thredbo after lunch.
We decided to have a quick look at Thredbo from a top car park & then head off to Cooma for fuel & afternoon tea.While afternoon tea at Cooma was also very good we needed to keep an eye on the weather.
We finished afternoon tea said our good byes & headed for Canberra arriving home at about 4:30pm.
In summary the day was very enjoyable, great company, good weather for motor bike riding & magnificent scenery.
Tuesday, December 9, 2014
BBQ for the Toy Run - Volunteers??
El Presidente Mick is calling for volunteers to help with the BBQ for this years Toy Run:
"We are calling on our members to rally and pitch in to help as we are running one of the BBQs at the MRA Toy Run at Old Parliament House this Saturday. Just an hour will do. All those who have helped previously have had a great time working and laughing together to raise money for UCARF and Snowy Hydro Southcare Helicopters.
So highlight Saturday 13th December in your diaries and call me on 0412 134376 or email me to let me if you can help out.
I intend to be there at 7.30 to set up - it should all be over by lunchtime."
Toy Run Details here:
http://www.mraact.org.au/mra-act-2014-toy-run-saturday-13-december/
"We are calling on our members to rally and pitch in to help as we are running one of the BBQs at the MRA Toy Run at Old Parliament House this Saturday. Just an hour will do. All those who have helped previously have had a great time working and laughing together to raise money for UCARF and Snowy Hydro Southcare Helicopters.
So highlight Saturday 13th December in your diaries and call me on 0412 134376 or email me to let me if you can help out.
Toy Run Details here:
http://www.mraact.org.au/mra-act-2014-toy-run-saturday-13-december/
Sunday, December 7, 2014
The Veteran, Vintage and Classic Motorcycle Club of ACT, 38th Annual Rally 2015
The Veteran, Vintage and Classic
Motorcycle Club of ACT
will be held on
the Canberra Day long weekend
Saturday, 7 March and Sunday, 8 March 2015(not in January, as in previous years)
********************
***Notice of Change of Date and Venue***
Motorcycle Club of ACT
will be held on
the Canberra Day long weekend
Saturday, 7 March and Sunday, 8 March 2015(not in January, as in previous years)
********************
***Notice of Change of Date and Venue***
Dear Rallyist,
We wish to advise that the VVCMCC ACT Annual Rally has moved both date and venue for 2015.
This is due to the Canberra Carotel Motel and Caravan Park
(where we have held the rally for the last few years)
not being available for our January date,
and there were no other affordable options open to us for that weekend.
After careful consideration and exploring all options,
we have decided to move the date to the Canberra Day Long Weekend, 7 and 8 March 2015.
We have secured a venue at the
Capital Country Holiday Village (47 Bidges Rd, Sutton),
a site that has been used by other clubs for their
rallies and events and comes highly recommended.
As 2015 is the 100th anniversary of the landing at Gallipoli,
we will be commemorating the event with
'Military Machines' being the marque for the rally.
The Terribly British Day - please note the change of venue
Well worth a visit!
Due to the inclement weather, The Terribly British Day
(Sunday 7 December)has been RELOCATED
from the Patrick White Lawns to the
Treasury Carpark
(off Langton Cres)
(Sunday 7 December)has been RELOCATED
from the Patrick White Lawns to the
Treasury Carpark
(off Langton Cres)
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Club Ride to Dalgety - 23 Nov 2014
Despite the forecast for 36 - 38 degrees, there were about 15 bikes lined up at Hume to go for a ride to Dalgety. I don’t have a list of riders - I think the ride leader wanted to keep that a secret!!??
The ride leader for the day was Peter Arday and as part of his pre-ride briefing we were all asked if we had plenty of water on board for the day - yes sir!! was the reply.
The plan was to turn off at Polo Flat before Cooma and head towards Nimmitabel for morning tea. Lunch wouldn’t be served at the Dalgety Pub until 12noon, so we may as well ride the long way round.
Riding conditions were quite pleasant and everyone was ready for their coffee (and/or pie) when we arrived at the Nimmitabel Bakery. Does anyone ever go past there without stopping for a pie? They have all sorts of pies!!!
So, on we must go. We left Nimmitabel and headed towards Bombala on the Monaro Hwy, but had to make sure we didn’t miss the turn off onto the Snowy River Way to get us to Delgety. All good. The wind was very strong across this stretch of road. A great place for them to put plenty of Wind Turbines.
We arrived at the Pub a little bit early, but none the less, the owners welcomed us with open arms and showed us through to the dining room in this very old building. I wasn’t sure if it was cooler in the dining room or out on the verandah. The majority of us had a hamburger (with or without chips) and a cool drink.
It was warming up, but we had to get home, so on we ventured to Cooma were we planned to stop again for those who needed fuel and for another chance to rehydrate.
Some pulled into the Shell Servo and enjoyed a ice cream, while others went to the next servo to spread the business around a bit. After a drink and rest, everyone head home at their own pace. Margaret and Derek stopped off at the Christmas Barn in Bredbo.
It wasn’t until we got to Michelago that the wind started to get hotter and by the time we arrived home, it was pretty warm, but we still enjoyed the day with great company (as usual).
Lyn
The ride leader for the day was Peter Arday and as part of his pre-ride briefing we were all asked if we had plenty of water on board for the day - yes sir!! was the reply.
The plan was to turn off at Polo Flat before Cooma and head towards Nimmitabel for morning tea. Lunch wouldn’t be served at the Dalgety Pub until 12noon, so we may as well ride the long way round.
Riding conditions were quite pleasant and everyone was ready for their coffee (and/or pie) when we arrived at the Nimmitabel Bakery. Does anyone ever go past there without stopping for a pie? They have all sorts of pies!!!
So, on we must go. We left Nimmitabel and headed towards Bombala on the Monaro Hwy, but had to make sure we didn’t miss the turn off onto the Snowy River Way to get us to Delgety. All good. The wind was very strong across this stretch of road. A great place for them to put plenty of Wind Turbines.
We arrived at the Pub a little bit early, but none the less, the owners welcomed us with open arms and showed us through to the dining room in this very old building. I wasn’t sure if it was cooler in the dining room or out on the verandah. The majority of us had a hamburger (with or without chips) and a cool drink.
It was warming up, but we had to get home, so on we ventured to Cooma were we planned to stop again for those who needed fuel and for another chance to rehydrate.
Some pulled into the Shell Servo and enjoyed a ice cream, while others went to the next servo to spread the business around a bit. After a drink and rest, everyone head home at their own pace. Margaret and Derek stopped off at the Christmas Barn in Bredbo.
It wasn’t until we got to Michelago that the wind started to get hotter and by the time we arrived home, it was pretty warm, but we still enjoyed the day with great company (as usual).
Lyn
Monday, November 17, 2014
Saturday, November 15, 2014
For Sale updates 15 Nov 2014
Three new items in the For Sale page
Further details at: http://ulyssescanberrabranch.blogspot.com.au/p/for-sale.html
WOW!!!!!
- Women's size 16 black Draggin jeans and
- a Suzuki SV650 Naked
- 2005 Honda Deauville NT650V
Further details at: http://ulyssescanberrabranch.blogspot.com.au/p/for-sale.html
WOW!!!!!
Saturday, November 8, 2014
The Long Ride 2014
The Long Ride 2014 is now complete. There were a few incidents / accidents and a larger than usual number of bikes came to grief through mechanical problems (mostly Harleys), and quite a few needed new tires along the way.
The success of this event was due mainly to the efforts of all riders and of course the tireless organisers. The Police were awesome in Victoria as our trip to Sale and eventually to Cerberus was not interrupted by any Police with poor senses of humour. They were all at a parade in the City …. Yippee, so the quick twisty roads were all the more interesting.
Organisers of the Defence Riders handed over a cheque to PCFA management $318,000, although some money is still filtering and was up to $318,905 as of Monday this week. This is an amazing amount and one that every rider should be proud of achieving. This amount will be used to fund further research into prostate cancer.
For my part, the ride was right up there with one of the hardest things I have done for some time. Apart from riding the bike which was a breeze.
The Hyabusa never missed a beat and indeed hardly even noticed the weight on the back. The only time I think I really noticed it was after we left Swan Hill heading north west towards Port Augusta where we faced a cross wind gusting to 55km per hour (some of the gust felt higher). Some riders reported turning to the right but leaning to the left to counter the high wind and even higher gusts.
Tanunda Caravan park (SA) was the last time we saw grass until we set up camp at Ayers Rock and it was rather sparse there.Organisers of the Defence Riders handed over a cheque to PCFA management $318,000, although some money is still filtering and was up to $318,905 as of Monday this week. This is an amazing amount and one that every rider should be proud of achieving. This amount will be used to fund further research into prostate cancer.
For my part, the ride was right up there with one of the hardest things I have done for some time. Apart from riding the bike which was a breeze.
The Hyabusa never missed a beat and indeed hardly even noticed the weight on the back. The only time I think I really noticed it was after we left Swan Hill heading north west towards Port Augusta where we faced a cross wind gusting to 55km per hour (some of the gust felt higher). Some riders reported turning to the right but leaning to the left to counter the high wind and even higher gusts.
 |
| camp site at Coober Pedy |
Believe it or not this highly desirable camp site at Coober Pedy cost $16, best bit of dirt I have ever rented…!!
What made the challenge so hard as indicated above was the fact that my backside was NOT up for the challenge…. And the final assessment confirmed … it wasn’t.
So I rode MOTOGP style for at least half the ride. Each time we got to the end of a very very very long straight we’d go through a nice bend then back to very very very long straights again.
So I rode MOTOGP style for at least half the ride. Each time we got to the end of a very very very long straight we’d go through a nice bend then back to very very very long straights again.
 |
| Standard lean angle |
Some statistics along the way involving collective costs are quite staggering. Collectively, we spent approx. $1.6m in participating in the Long Ride.
So when you factor in such things as food, drinks, accommodation, maintenance, tyres, fuel and clothing, this amount is amazing. The youngest pillion was 8, two sisters rode behind their dad at intervals, one 8 year old rode behind his grandfather for over 8000ks, the oldest rider is 81, a family of Dad, Son and Grandson rode all the way together.
I rode all the way out there and back with a long lost Navy mate that I hadn’t seen for close to 30 years and we are now firm friends (I think I have spent more time with him than my wife over the last few months). To be honest if he had not kept going all the time (experienced long distance rider) I think I would have stopped a lot more for ‘sooky la la’ breaks and taken twice as long to get there.
So when you factor in such things as food, drinks, accommodation, maintenance, tyres, fuel and clothing, this amount is amazing. The youngest pillion was 8, two sisters rode behind their dad at intervals, one 8 year old rode behind his grandfather for over 8000ks, the oldest rider is 81, a family of Dad, Son and Grandson rode all the way together.
I rode all the way out there and back with a long lost Navy mate that I hadn’t seen for close to 30 years and we are now firm friends (I think I have spent more time with him than my wife over the last few months). To be honest if he had not kept going all the time (experienced long distance rider) I think I would have stopped a lot more for ‘sooky la la’ breaks and taken twice as long to get there.
 |
| RAN target towing Jindavic |
We stopped in at Woomera along the way and had a look at a former RAN target towing Jindavic (I think that’s how you spell it), my travelling mate Stu actually had a direct history with this plane as parts of it were removed by Stu to keep another one going.
 |
| AYERS ROCK (Ularu) |
Willmington to Port Augusta South Australia was probably the longest windy road I have ever ridden on and the best bit is I got to do it twice.
 | |
| It’s much more twistier than it looks, all 55kph turns. |
After 8000ks on a two year old OEM tyre…..
 | |
| It lasted til home…….. JUST |
Lorne Thurgar
Tuesday, November 4, 2014
Club Ride to Batemans Bay, 2 November 2014
Met at Caltex Hume on this fine day – seems they again have ’95 but most people didn’t take any chances and had already fuelled up prior to arrival.
Thought there would be more riders as it was such a great day – but maybe the Snowy Ride had dwindled our numbers somewhat. Rider briefing had, we set off along Lanyon Drive, through Queanbeyan and onto the Kings.
Our mandatory Bateman’s Bay run coffee stop – Braidwood Bakery. And who should we meet: Trevor Macleod, who had missed the hookup in Hume and taken the shorter route from home. After a leisurely coffee, we got back on the road, with me having a crack at getting some GoPro video happening of the run down the Clyde. Fail – USB plug on my ‘GoPro battery eliminator’ gizmo decided it didn’t want to stay in the power socket under the vibration, and it had stopped recording within 5km of Braidwood. Damn.
Road was rather devoid of traffic, save for a few that didn’t allow us a clean run down the Clyde – except for Andrew, who has a knack at finding an open road every time we do this run.
Arrived at the Bay, just in time for lunch of Fish & Chips. Managed to park on the pavement right outside the F&C shop. Clearly our timing was perfect, as a sizeable group of riders from Victoria, en-route back from the Snowy Ride, arrived moments later. They had to park on the grass.
After a leisurely lunch, we bade our farewells to Peter Arday, who was staying on to meet up with his beloved Suzanne and friends, and Trevor made his own way. A quick discussion on which was to go home (long route via Nowra and Nerriga, or direct) – Direct won out, and Andrew made some feeble excuse about having to get home and do some shopping.
Discussion had about where to fuel up, and all decided there is enough to get to Braidwood or beyond.
Some tape on the GoPro gizmo to hold it in – and we set off at a reasonable pace up the hill. I’m thinking ‘This should be good’, but we got gazumped by (dare I say it) dumb Canberra drivers towing boats and trying to pass on the slow sections another car towing a caravan. I got through, but then he pulled out between me and Adam without warning, and almost took Adam and Neil out.
Worse was yet to come – just above one of the tight hairpins, another Canberra ute with a boat had its’ tailgate open, and he dropped some of his load out the back. And what did he want to do? Back the boat down the hill to pick up his lost load.
Arrived back at Braidwood for an ice cream and a break, although some decided to head straight home after filling up. The GoPro has not finished with me yet – while the concept of the battery eliminator is good, “Note to self – switch off GoPro before switching off bike”. I found if you do not do this graceful shutdown, the camera does not write to the storage card correctly, and no footage results. Gives me an excuse to do the run again!
A pleasant day out with fellow riders, thanks folks.
Chris
Riders:
Thought there would be more riders as it was such a great day – but maybe the Snowy Ride had dwindled our numbers somewhat. Rider briefing had, we set off along Lanyon Drive, through Queanbeyan and onto the Kings.
 |
| Trevor explains the finer aspects of cornering |
Our mandatory Bateman’s Bay run coffee stop – Braidwood Bakery. And who should we meet: Trevor Macleod, who had missed the hookup in Hume and taken the shorter route from home. After a leisurely coffee, we got back on the road, with me having a crack at getting some GoPro video happening of the run down the Clyde. Fail – USB plug on my ‘GoPro battery eliminator’ gizmo decided it didn’t want to stay in the power socket under the vibration, and it had stopped recording within 5km of Braidwood. Damn.
Road was rather devoid of traffic, save for a few that didn’t allow us a clean run down the Clyde – except for Andrew, who has a knack at finding an open road every time we do this run.
Arrived at the Bay, just in time for lunch of Fish & Chips. Managed to park on the pavement right outside the F&C shop. Clearly our timing was perfect, as a sizeable group of riders from Victoria, en-route back from the Snowy Ride, arrived moments later. They had to park on the grass.After a leisurely lunch, we bade our farewells to Peter Arday, who was staying on to meet up with his beloved Suzanne and friends, and Trevor made his own way. A quick discussion on which was to go home (long route via Nowra and Nerriga, or direct) – Direct won out, and Andrew made some feeble excuse about having to get home and do some shopping.
Discussion had about where to fuel up, and all decided there is enough to get to Braidwood or beyond.
Some tape on the GoPro gizmo to hold it in – and we set off at a reasonable pace up the hill. I’m thinking ‘This should be good’, but we got gazumped by (dare I say it) dumb Canberra drivers towing boats and trying to pass on the slow sections another car towing a caravan. I got through, but then he pulled out between me and Adam without warning, and almost took Adam and Neil out.
Worse was yet to come – just above one of the tight hairpins, another Canberra ute with a boat had its’ tailgate open, and he dropped some of his load out the back. And what did he want to do? Back the boat down the hill to pick up his lost load.
Arrived back at Braidwood for an ice cream and a break, although some decided to head straight home after filling up. The GoPro has not finished with me yet – while the concept of the battery eliminator is good, “Note to self – switch off GoPro before switching off bike”. I found if you do not do this graceful shutdown, the camera does not write to the storage card correctly, and no footage results. Gives me an excuse to do the run again!
A pleasant day out with fellow riders, thanks folks.
Chris
Riders:
- Chris Dietzel: Kawasaki GTR1400 (ride leader)
- Peter Arday: Honda ST1300
- Jeff Heiler: Triumph Rocket III
- Neil Goldfinch: Honda CBR1100XX Blackbird
- Adam Kral: Suzuki GSXR1100 (a newby! – an associate of Garry McCurley)
- Mark and Cathy Walker: Honda NT700V Deauville.
- Gary Thomas: Suzuki DL650 VStrom
- Andrew Campbell: Kawasaki ZX14R
- And caught up with - Trevor Macleod: Yamaha FJR1300
Tuesday, October 28, 2014
Wyangala Dam 26 Oct 2014
- Chas Towie ST1300
- Darryl Cullen 1250S Bandit
- George Attard Sprint 1050
- Ian Paterson GL1800
- Andrew Campbell ZX14R
- Trevor McLeod FJR1300
- Dave Greig DL650
- Gary Thomas DL650
- Chris Dietzel GTR1400
- Kris Jirasek GSXR1300
- Dave Robinson FJR1300
Despite the early start (8:30 am) it was already kind of warm as we pulled out of Nicholls and headed north on the well-worn Barton Highway. Everyone claimed to know the way to Boorowa so we didn’t bother with corner markers. Amazingly, everyone made it to the Superb Bakery for coffee and a pie.
It was now quite warm and sunny and those of us with removable jacket liners ripped them out before Chas led us out of town on the Rugby road. After a few kilometres we turned left on the less travelled Frogmore road, which Trevor had been warning was a mess of dinner plate sized patched potholes. To our great surprise and joy, the local council had just finished resurfacing the worst stretch of the road, which has been transformed from a bone-jarring horror into a thing of wonder with a smooth surface, sweeping bends and enjoyable riding. Hope it lasts!
Corner markers marked the few corners and by about 11am, despite one wild goose chase leading to a dead-end, we pulled in at the day’s holy grail – the entrance to the Wyangala Dam recreation area. Chas then confessed that he had never been here before and had no idea of where to go or what to do. Fortunately there was a map on a couple of posts, and some swift negotiation with the girl manning (girling?) the boom gate saw us allowed into the recreation area without having to pay the $10 entry fee – as long as we didn’t get off our bikes and start a picnic.
The place was busy with water skiing boats, campers, picnickers and a swarm of people picnicking along the shoreline near the boat ramp. The lake level was obviously less than full. I estimated it was about 70% full but I checked later and it was only 53%. There’s a lot of water in the top 10 or so metres!
We exited the recreation area, rode across the dam wall and back and, like the hippies in 1969, headed for Woodstock. The road was mostly fairly narrow, and brought us face to face with the occasional 4wd towing a speedboat, but it weaved and curved up into the hills and then along a high ridgeline with sweeping views to the west. Definitely worth a return trip!
Woodstock the village (as opposed to Woodstock the 1969 music festival, which my bride Sally missed out on despite living only two hours away) is small and sleepy. However, somebody obviously loves the place as considerable money is being poured into renovating the old two-storey pub and another beautiful old building across the road.
We joined some locals in the cool of the pub and settled in the dining room for lunch and refreshments. I had a steak sambo which had plenty of salad but the thinnest steak I think I’ve ever seen. Not to worry, the chips had gravy on them.
It was over 30 degrees as we rode out of Woodstock, having not seen a hippie or even a decorated Kombi van. We headed north for a short distance and turned left onto the Mid Western Highway, heading for home. The temperature peaked at 34 degrees just before Cowra (that place is always hot), where we stopped for fuel.
After that there were only two more stops – Boorowa for afternoon tea and the George Harcourt Inn at Gold Creek for a cold one – before I got home and washed the bugs off the bike. Already this season I’ve cleaned up about a million more bugs than I did in all of last summer. Something to do with a wetter season.
Ian Paterson
Monday, October 27, 2014
Motorcycle Awareness Week - Biker's Breakfast
As a social part of Motorcycle Awareness Week the Friday Biker's Breakfast is always popular with riders dropping in for an egg & bacon roll or sausage sandwich (or both) and a cuppa before their day begins.
Set near one of the pools (regrettably empty) in front of OPH the Breakfast offers a chance to wind down from the week and a catch up with fellow riders.
Canberra branch provided the BBQ support: here are a few of our BBQ team:
Set near one of the pools (regrettably empty) in front of OPH the Breakfast offers a chance to wind down from the week and a catch up with fellow riders.
Canberra branch provided the BBQ support: here are a few of our BBQ team:
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| Mick, Peter, John, Chas and Jen on duty (Note Joe Rider in the background - doesn't that guy get around!) |
Friday, October 24, 2014
Motorcycle Awareness Week - Ulysses at the Forum
On Wednesday 22 October the Canberra branch of the Australasian College of Road Safety held an open forum "Whose responsibility is it" (to look after the safety of motorcycle riders?) Drivers or the motorcyclists themselves?
The open discussion on motorcyclist safety included a presentation on the trial of lane filtering in the ACT. Speakers included representatives from MCC NSW, JACS and ACT Policing.
The forum was well supported and provided a useful exchange of information and views.
Ulysses was there - here are a few of our own from Canberra branch.
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| L to R: Chris,Garry,Jen, Chas,Mick,Tracey and Jen |
Tuesday, October 21, 2014
Chomp & Chat and Rusty Riders - Lanyon Homestead – 19 October 2014
Travellers -
As this ride was a Chomp and Chat we assembled at the very respectable time of 10.30 under the golden arches at Weston - perhaps not such a great idea for a Sunday morning meeting place as the car park was full and we gathered on the footpath huddled under a tree. However the weather was good and we were all looking forward to a ride in the sunshine.
Rumours of a crowded ride through the planned Cotter Road route with Veterans riding, other bike groups, Tidbinbilla Open Day along with the ubiquitous pushbike riders etc, forced a change of plans as this was a trip for Rusty Riders. One rider decided to chance the original course while the rest of us travelled the scenic route along Parks Way, past Duntroon and the Airport, dogleg at Queanbeyan, down Old Cooma Road, north along the Monaro Highway and then through the wilds of far Southern Canberra to all arrive safely at Lanyon Homestead. Here we met up with the lone Cotter rider who reported the road wasn’t nearly as cluttered as forecast – oh well, maybe next time.
There were maybe twenty cars in the car park at Lanyon but thanks to the ride leader’s contacts at this establishment we enjoyed our own private marquee for lunch. There was a menu full of choices, but the grilled sausages and steak sandwiches seemed to be the favourites. Had Peter Arday joined us he would have found a fellow tea connoisseur. We sat for quite a while chatting, making the most of the good food and the beautiful views of the surrounding Brindabella Ranges and Murrumbidgee River.
After lunch most of the group left for home, but 7 of us stayed for a guided tour of the Homestead and its outbuildings. While the English amongst us scoffed at the idea that a house built in the 1840s could be considered historic, to us Aussies the homestead was testament to the fortitude and ingenuity of the early settlers. The other side of the river was unexplored territory and in those days you were a long way from civilisation and any sort of help if needed. Convicts built many of the outbuildings.
The highlight for me was the stables with the original timber stump floor made of sections of tree trunks cut and fitted in a close packed hexagonal pattern – this was apparently softer on horses’ hooves.
Lanyon at this time of year is beautiful – the wisteria, climbing roses, lilac, lavender and poppies are blooming. The many varieties of fruit trees are green and the severely pruned photinias sprouting bright red leaves provide a striking contrast. Lanyon is a picturesque destination suitable for a short Sunday ride – somewhere to while away a few hours.
Tracey Winters
- Geoff Wookey Suzuki Bandit 1250
- Arthur McGlynn Kawa 1700
- Garry McCurley VFR1200
- Kris Fraser GSXR1300
- Steve Mills SV650
- Mike Kelly BMW R100RS
- Col Whittaker Honda VT 750
- Jo & Helen Dutton Honda ST1300
- John Barratt BMW GS800F
- David Greig Vstrom 650
- Rachel Crispin Kawa KT 300 Ninja
- Emma Campbell Suzuki Intruder 250
- Manfred Halton R1200R
- Mick & Tracey Winters Triumph Trophy
As this ride was a Chomp and Chat we assembled at the very respectable time of 10.30 under the golden arches at Weston - perhaps not such a great idea for a Sunday morning meeting place as the car park was full and we gathered on the footpath huddled under a tree. However the weather was good and we were all looking forward to a ride in the sunshine.
Rumours of a crowded ride through the planned Cotter Road route with Veterans riding, other bike groups, Tidbinbilla Open Day along with the ubiquitous pushbike riders etc, forced a change of plans as this was a trip for Rusty Riders. One rider decided to chance the original course while the rest of us travelled the scenic route along Parks Way, past Duntroon and the Airport, dogleg at Queanbeyan, down Old Cooma Road, north along the Monaro Highway and then through the wilds of far Southern Canberra to all arrive safely at Lanyon Homestead. Here we met up with the lone Cotter rider who reported the road wasn’t nearly as cluttered as forecast – oh well, maybe next time.
There were maybe twenty cars in the car park at Lanyon but thanks to the ride leader’s contacts at this establishment we enjoyed our own private marquee for lunch. There was a menu full of choices, but the grilled sausages and steak sandwiches seemed to be the favourites. Had Peter Arday joined us he would have found a fellow tea connoisseur. We sat for quite a while chatting, making the most of the good food and the beautiful views of the surrounding Brindabella Ranges and Murrumbidgee River.
After lunch most of the group left for home, but 7 of us stayed for a guided tour of the Homestead and its outbuildings. While the English amongst us scoffed at the idea that a house built in the 1840s could be considered historic, to us Aussies the homestead was testament to the fortitude and ingenuity of the early settlers. The other side of the river was unexplored territory and in those days you were a long way from civilisation and any sort of help if needed. Convicts built many of the outbuildings.
The highlight for me was the stables with the original timber stump floor made of sections of tree trunks cut and fitted in a close packed hexagonal pattern – this was apparently softer on horses’ hooves.
Lanyon at this time of year is beautiful – the wisteria, climbing roses, lilac, lavender and poppies are blooming. The many varieties of fruit trees are green and the severely pruned photinias sprouting bright red leaves provide a striking contrast. Lanyon is a picturesque destination suitable for a short Sunday ride – somewhere to while away a few hours.
Tracey Winters
Monday, October 6, 2014
Motorcycle Awareness Week 2014
Another timely reminder for Motorcycle Awareness Week 2014 from Jen Woods:
Yes, it's time once more for Motorcycle Awareness Week!
The week long campaign is hosted by the
Motorcycle Riders Association of ACT. The event launches on Saturday 18thth
October and the event will run all week, with a discussion evening organized by
the ACT Chapter of the Australian College of Road Safety, themed around the
question “Whose Responsibility Is It?” being held on Wednesday 22ndOctober from 6.30 to 9.00pm at the Canberra Southern Cross Club, Cnr Catchpoleand Bowman Streets, Macquarie. Have you registered yet?
JOE Rider, rider awareness campaign also kicks off for the week, and the Bikers Breakfast and Ride to Work Day is
on Friday 24th October, in front of Old Parliament House on King
Edward Terrace from 7.00 to 9.00am.
We'd love to see you at these events during the week.
Jen
on behalf of the MRA ACT Committee
0418 215 336
Motorcycle Awareness Week 2014 - Joe Rider
Jen Woods President of the MRA ACT writes:
Hi all,
with
Motorcycle Awareness Week being run from 18th October, we are seeking
riders to wear the JOE Rider vests for the week. It's important that we
have enough riders wearing the JOE vests to enable other road users to
see JOE. This is being supported by a radio campaign to ensure the
message goes out to our community that they should watch out for riders
on the roads.
This “Spot Joe Rider” campaign will be
launched Saturday 18th October. Riders wearing the JOE Rider vest will ride all
week, during peak hour and other times of the day, from all points of Canberra,
and members of the public are asked to keep an eye open for JOE and report in
where he/she is “spotted”. All sightings should be logged to
joe.rider@internode.on.net
If you'd like to be "JOE" for the week please let us know by return email, or email to
or by phone to 0418 215 336.
Thanks to those of you who regularly do this for us - making a difference.
Thanks
Jen
on behalf of MRA CT committee
Follow us on Twitter @MRAACT
Saturday, October 4, 2014
One Tree Poker Run - Tuross Head
Annette Kennewell, from the Tuross Head Country Club has written to invite us to attend their One Tree Poker Run on Saturday 25 October.
For more information and to register please visit http://www.turossheadcountryclub.com.au/pokerrun.html
Further information or flyers to can be obtained from Annette on 4473 8186 or mobile 0417 203 610.
For more information and to register please visit http://www.turossheadcountryclub.com.au/pokerrun.html
Further information or flyers to can be obtained from Annette on 4473 8186 or mobile 0417 203 610.
Thursday, October 2, 2014
Tuesday, September 30, 2014
Mudgee, NSW, 27 – 29 September
The riders and their trusty sidekicks were Tracey & Mick Winters, Lyn & Al Munday, Brian Agius, Trevor McLeod, David Robinson, Karen & Rob Clarke, Maream & Chris Dietzel, Catherine & Andrew Campbell, Kim Moorey & Ron Tito, and Sally & Ian Paterson.
We met at the EPIC Macca’s, Northbourne Ave on Saturday morning. Despite the chaos of the beginning of school holidays, a 3-day weekend and the crowds of people who attend the weekly Farmer’s Market, we got away only 8 min late (Ian and Andrew had a close watch on the time). The weather was perfect, perfect, perfect all weekend. Lots of traffic all the way to Goulbourn but after a stop at the Big Merino and coffee (and Ian’s meat pie) we headed for Oberon along my personal favourite NSW road – Tablelands Way, via Taralga, Abercrombie River and Black Springs. The views to the east take in beautiful farms and the stunning Blue Mountains for more than 150 km.
After a lunch stop in Bathurst and Ian and Andrew checking that their money was lined up in order of denomination in their wallets, we made a short diversion into the struggling Kandos and the trendy Rylstone before getting to Mudgee. Although we missed the Kandos Mountain Hoedown and the Duelling Pianos at Hargraves we enjoyed the last of the Mudgee Food and Wine Festival which had created a rather festive buzz around town.
We all stayed at the Ningana Motel, located conveniently across the road from the Oriental Hotel, next-door to a supermarket, and around the corner from two excellent cafes and the Lawson Park Hotel. Needless to say we ate very well – in fact a bit too well.
An additional building, part of the Ningana, was a group of single storey 1920s terrace houses. Ian and I, along with Kim, Ron, Andrew and Catherine stayed in one of those as there was no room at the inn. BUT this place was cute AS. Very vintage. There were lots of ‘My Grandmother’ stories being told. But with six people and one bathroom we were a bit worried. It proved to be a needless worry as the bathroom was big enough to accommodate a 3 on 3 basketball game! We survived just nicely on a ‘whoever gets in first’ roster.
Saturday was the big wine tour hosted by Terry, our bus driver and tour guide as well a teller of bad jokes and good old stories (he’s also a Ulysses member in Mudgee). Three wineries, one delicious lunch at Robert Oatley Estate with lovely bucolic views, three more wineries, a taste of Moonshine that almost blew Maream’s head off, and we were a bit rubbery and smiling a lot and it seemed everyone was suddenly SO in love with their partners! You should have seen Brian and David . . . get a room!!
One more overly large dinner and yummy breakfast at the Butcher Shop Café (great) and off we headed back to the city (sob). We rode just over 900 km and we all agreed it was one of the best weekends away ever!! Thanks Ian for your truly professional organisation and turning on the most perfect (did I say that already?) weather!
Sally Paterson (1st time report writer)
After a lunch stop in Bathurst and Ian and Andrew checking that their money was lined up in order of denomination in their wallets, we made a short diversion into the struggling Kandos and the trendy Rylstone before getting to Mudgee. Although we missed the Kandos Mountain Hoedown and the Duelling Pianos at Hargraves we enjoyed the last of the Mudgee Food and Wine Festival which had created a rather festive buzz around town.
We all stayed at the Ningana Motel, located conveniently across the road from the Oriental Hotel, next-door to a supermarket, and around the corner from two excellent cafes and the Lawson Park Hotel. Needless to say we ate very well – in fact a bit too well.
An additional building, part of the Ningana, was a group of single storey 1920s terrace houses. Ian and I, along with Kim, Ron, Andrew and Catherine stayed in one of those as there was no room at the inn. BUT this place was cute AS. Very vintage. There were lots of ‘My Grandmother’ stories being told. But with six people and one bathroom we were a bit worried. It proved to be a needless worry as the bathroom was big enough to accommodate a 3 on 3 basketball game! We survived just nicely on a ‘whoever gets in first’ roster.
Saturday was the big wine tour hosted by Terry, our bus driver and tour guide as well a teller of bad jokes and good old stories (he’s also a Ulysses member in Mudgee). Three wineries, one delicious lunch at Robert Oatley Estate with lovely bucolic views, three more wineries, a taste of Moonshine that almost blew Maream’s head off, and we were a bit rubbery and smiling a lot and it seemed everyone was suddenly SO in love with their partners! You should have seen Brian and David . . . get a room!!One more overly large dinner and yummy breakfast at the Butcher Shop Café (great) and off we headed back to the city (sob). We rode just over 900 km and we all agreed it was one of the best weekends away ever!! Thanks Ian for your truly professional organisation and turning on the most perfect (did I say that already?) weather!
Sally Paterson (1st time report writer)
Tuesday, September 23, 2014
Bowral - 21 September
Sunny skies for the team on this ride ! Our early morning meet up time was almost marred by a petrol truck wanting to mow all our bikes down while parked at the EPIC Caltex (arguments were raised for using the BP at Watson for meet ups instead) - the impending disaster was watched by a fearful few from Macca's (Macca's is a good reason NOT to use the BP at Watson for meet ups instead) while Gary sorted it. Turned out the truck driver was actually a nice bloke and gave us 45 minutes to get out of his way. This was more than enough time for our fearless leader to brief us and get us on our bikes.
Our route took us through Bungendore, Tarago, Windellama and on to Marulan for a quick stop.
The beaut stretch of road that is the Highland Way didn’t disappoint, and it was fun for all as we travelled in the dappled light of the trees. Two intrepid Hondas experienced the joys of off road riding on inappropriate tyres when one rider missed a turn, however we were soon all back on the way.
Despite the look on Andrews face in this shot, he really did enjoy his messy Angus Beef Burger. Honest. And just look at the happy faces on these blokes - you can tell they are well fed and watered.
Mark gave a demonstration of how he scares small children on Halloween with only his eyebrows, and Peter gave us an informative tour of the preserved dingo tracks from medieval times out front of the pub.
We left the delightful little town of Bowral to fuel up again at Marulan, as we had all been assured by an eagle eyed price watcher that petrol was 10c cheaper there.
Always a pleasure ! - Kim Moorey
Team Honda:
Peter Arday - ST1300
Garry McCurley - VFR1200
Kim Moorey - DN01
Ron Tito - CTX 1300
Ian Patterson - GL1800
Mark Wagner - NT700V
Sandy Fisk - NT650V
Those batting for another team:
Kevin Shanley - Bandit 1250
Andrew Campbell - ZX14R
Trevor McLeod - FJR1300
David Robinson - FJR1300
Robert Apps - R100RS
Our route took us through Bungendore, Tarago, Windellama and on to Marulan for a quick stop.
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| Marulan |
The beaut stretch of road that is the Highland Way didn’t disappoint, and it was fun for all as we travelled in the dappled light of the trees. Two intrepid Hondas experienced the joys of off road riding on inappropriate tyres when one rider missed a turn, however we were soon all back on the way.
Despite the look on Andrews face in this shot, he really did enjoy his messy Angus Beef Burger. Honest. And just look at the happy faces on these blokes - you can tell they are well fed and watered.
Mark gave a demonstration of how he scares small children on Halloween with only his eyebrows, and Peter gave us an informative tour of the preserved dingo tracks from medieval times out front of the pub.
We left the delightful little town of Bowral to fuel up again at Marulan, as we had all been assured by an eagle eyed price watcher that petrol was 10c cheaper there.
 |
| The lunchtime feeding frenzy. |
 |
| The lads at rest |
Team Honda:
Peter Arday - ST1300
Garry McCurley - VFR1200
Kim Moorey - DN01
Ron Tito - CTX 1300
Ian Patterson - GL1800
Mark Wagner - NT700V
Sandy Fisk - NT650V
Those batting for another team:
Kevin Shanley - Bandit 1250
Andrew Campbell - ZX14R
Trevor McLeod - FJR1300
David Robinson - FJR1300
Robert Apps - R100RS
Monday, September 22, 2014
Ladies Ride to Bungendore 20 September
The inaugural Ulysses Canberra Branch Ladies Ride to was held on the 20th September.
- Emma Campbell – Suzuki Intruder
- Rachel Crispin –Ninja 300
- Shelley Shanley - Ninja 600ZXR
- Karen Clarke – Roadliner
- Jan Wills – Honda DN01
Being ladies, we left the Gold Creek servo
at the respectable time of 9:30 and headed to Gundaroo.
I led and K agreed to go tail end Charlie.
Out along the Barton and turned right on
the Nanima Road past Poacher’s Pantry and The Chocolate Farm – we all resisted
temptation to stop at both. Well really,
I didn’t ask, but it can be part of another Girl’s ride.
 |
| At Gundaroo |
Turned right onto the Murrumbateman Road
and left past Bowylie Station to Gundaroo.
Coffee at the Pizza place, great coffee and chats. Lucky we didn’t rush off – not that we had
long distances to go – as 2 young ladies came across Karen’s Mobile on the
ground near the bikes and came looking for the owner.
Bowylie is where Dick Smith now lives of
course. However back in the last half of
the 70’s my Mother and youngest Sister lived at Bowylie. We had great fun riding our horses around the
property. The entrance to Mum’s place
was off Shingle Hill Way, so naturally we had to go that way so I could show
the girls where they lived. Shelly took
over tail end Charlie from Gundaroo to Bungendore.
On to the Federal Highway briefly and then
on to the Bungendore Road past Bywong and on to Bungendore.
We arrived a little early (of course), so
we wandered through the shops. We
dawdled through the Antique shop – there is so much to see in there! AND no one bought anything – dada!
 |
| Lunching at the Wood Works Cafe |
Lunch at the Woodworks Café, where Tracey
Winters joined us and kindly took photographs.
The food and company was great. It is always good to hear about the
lives of others and make new friends.
Although not a great distance was covered
for the day, we all really enjoyed our ride, especially the two Learners, who
enjoyed watching the experienced girls ride. I think it gave them a nice
serving of confidence.
I look forward to the next girl’s ride and the vote from the girls is
definitely up to do another.
Thank you Tracey for the photo’s :-)
Jan
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| View of the bikes at Gundaroo |
Tuesday, September 16, 2014
National Memorial Ride to Cordeaux Dam – 13 September 2014
The riders were:
Waking to a glorious sunshine filled day by the time we got to Watson to meet the others for the 8.30am departure the fog had descended. However after crossing back over the border, this gradually lifted and the traffic flowed well. We may have given the speed limits a little nudge believing that no one on a motorbike traveling out of Canberra would be booked the day after the Wall to Wall.
We stopped at Marulan for coffee arriving at Cordeaux Dam around 11.30. While perhaps the ride to Picton is considered a bit boring by some, this ride is about the destination, not the journey. We go to remember our Ulysses members that have ridden on.
Lunch was the obligatory sausage and onion in a roll and cake, kindly provided by the Macarthur Ulysses Branch washed down with coffee. The crowd gathered to listen to Jen Wood’s speech as well as an address from the Macarthur Branch’s president followed by a minute’s silence to remember and commemorate those who have ridden on.
Hoping to beat the crowds we didn’t linger, making a quick trip to the dam itself before leaving for Marulan to feed the bikes. While some riders chose to ride straight down the Hume Highway to home some of us decided to take the road less traveled through Lake Bathurst to the Roselea Café – and who should we see just out of Goulburn but Jen Woods and Gary McDonald. They joined us at the café for coffee – with Gary again refusing to share his cheesecake with the group.
Today, although a solemn occasion, was one of those days that make you glad to be alive, to appreciate your friends and to cherish your time together. Coming on the same weekend as the Wall to Wall it makes you value the small things that we all take for granted – good riding weather and time spent with friends.
Tracey Winters
- Michael & Tracey Winters Triumph Trophy
- Mike and Kipper Victory
- Arthur Kawasaki 1700
- Garry McCurley VFR1200
- Alan & Lyn Munday FJR1300
- Andrew Campbell GL1800
- Karen Clarke Roadliner
- Rob Clarke FJR1300
- Chris Dietzel GTR1400
- Jeff Heiler Triumph Rocket 3
- Daryl Palin Goldwing
Waking to a glorious sunshine filled day by the time we got to Watson to meet the others for the 8.30am departure the fog had descended. However after crossing back over the border, this gradually lifted and the traffic flowed well. We may have given the speed limits a little nudge believing that no one on a motorbike traveling out of Canberra would be booked the day after the Wall to Wall.
We stopped at Marulan for coffee arriving at Cordeaux Dam around 11.30. While perhaps the ride to Picton is considered a bit boring by some, this ride is about the destination, not the journey. We go to remember our Ulysses members that have ridden on.
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| Queuing for coffee - or checking out the trike? |
 |
| Some of the Canberra Branch riders at Cordeax Dam |
 |
| Alas my friends there is only one spoon... |
Tracey Winters
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