Mountains & Rivers Report

Tuesday 3^rd May

I was slow getting my wet weather pants on as I prepared for this ride. The result, it started to rain as I got the BMW out of the garage. BUGGA .

We rode in the the pouring rain to Pheasants Nest. Here the 16 riders on this three day excursion gathered and we set off under the very capable guidance of President Denis, via the motorway then Bungonia, for a morning tea stop in Goulburn. Here the rain had stopped and was not to be seen again on the entire ride YIPEE !!!.

Then it was down to Batemans Bay via Braidwood, for lunch. From here we followed the coastal roads past Mossey Point to Moruya. Back on the Princes Hwy for a few kms before making a left turn and enjoying the ride to Bermagui for a leg stretch and quick cuppa etc. It was now a lovely clear afternoon as we rode through Tathra to Merimbula and our motel. Dinner was at the RSL.

Wednesday 4^th May

8AM had us on the road in superb riding conditions. Crisp, clear and blue skies. South to just past Pambula then a right turn for the fun road to Bombala. I am sure some bikes tyres would have cooled down by the time I rode in to town but the riders grins were still apparent.I assumed the lead here and we set out for Dalgety. Those superb mountain roads were just to tempting for many who found my "sedate" pace not quite the speed they wished to enjoy. I was soon the only one in front of Rob who was TEC. So it was "run free" on through Berridale to Adaminaby for morning tea etc. Next stop was Cabramurra for a photo stop in Australia's highest town then down and up those fun mountains to Corryong for a latish lunch.

Refreshed and relieved we rode along the Murray Valley Hwy and took a right turn to use the fun Granya Pass to the Murray River Rd. What a fantastic view it was as we started the decent from the top of the pass. The mighty Murray River is now a big shimmering lake set in lush green fields with fantastic mountains behind. A scene I will remember for ever. From here we followed the river to Albury crossing it at Bellbridge. The last time I rode over this big bridge it was spanning brownish green fields with a little creek running through the middle. Now it spans a huge lake with the water level not far below the road way. A fantastic sight.

Next stop was the Hume dam itself  and the purpose of this ride, to see the water cascading over the spill way, a very rare event. Sadly we were a bit too late as the water was now only a trickle but never the less I felt being able to see the lake formed by this dam, so full, was reward enough.

Our accommodation and dinner was at the Boomerang Hotel Motel in Lavington ( North Albury). It was glaringly obvious that this establishment is not capable of handling any sort of group. The check in was messy, some peoples bookings were not to be found despite the fact I had checked the day before we set out and the meals were OK. In a nut shell, not recommended for future use.

Thursday 5^th May

The next morning I handed the ride leadership to our absolute "treasure" the one known as the human GPS, Ronnie K. He did a great job of guiding us to Wagga Wagga and beyond to Junee for Morning tea. We all invaded one little cafe and the selection and variety of food consumed was revolting to the few of us who were trying to watch our waist lines. People like Denis, Eric and myself. Those battered savs looked sensational, but I resisted, The Alan B had a cransky on a bun, drool and Allan S had TWO dim sims. I had to get on my bike and explore the historic railway station.

The straight roads of this morning compensated for all the "twisties" of yesterday. Ronnie stayed out in front as he guided us on through Harden etc to the motorway and Goulburn for lunch. Then it was free choice for the run home.

Special thanks go to Rob for the stalwart job he always does as TEC but also for all his help to me in planning this ride. Greatly appreciated Rob.

THANKS also go to Denis, Vic and Ronnie for their contribution as leaders.

And lastly my thanks go to the 15 Ulysses mates who rode with me for making this such an enjoyable three days.

Not that it matters much but I left home in rain and I came home in rain. YES it came down as I left "Doctor Dans" after buying some liquid that would settle the dust in my throat.

Always Ride With A Smile

Bob