Anniversary Ride Commencement Day
All motorbike enthusiasts and interested people are invited to join Graham, John and their party at the start of the Around Australia Anniversary Ride. This trip is a re-enactment of the 1929 trip completed by Jack Bowers and Frank Smith. Meguiar's Motor Ex Custom Car and Bike Show have kindly allowed as to start from their venue.
When: 1:00pm on Sunday 4th of July, 2004
Where: Main entrance to Meguiar's Motor Ex Custom Car and Bike Show, Homebush Bay
Everybody is invited to join the official riders to NSW Ski Gardens Caravan Park, 2916 River Road Wisemans Ferry, for a barbeque and drinks starting at 4:00pm on Sunday 4th of July.
Anniversary Ride Finish Day
All motorbike enthusiasts and interested people are invited to join Graham, John and their party at the completion of the Around Australia Anniversary Ride. This trip is a re-enactment of the 1929 trip completed by Jack Bowers and Frank Smith. Graham, John and Party will be returning to Sydney after their 11 week re-enactment on the 21st September, which happens to be World Alzheimer's Day.
When: 11am on the 21st September, 2004
Where: Kokoda Track Memorial walkway, Killoola Street, Concord Hospital, Concord
Charity Ball
When: On Friday 22nd of October
Where Ettalong Bowling Club
Contact: Helen Donald of Ballroom Dance'in Studio (02) 4340 1057
DAY ONE, SYDNEY TO WISEMANS FERRY
The day began from the Super Dome at Homebush Bay where the 1940 Harley Outfit had been on display amongst the magnificent collection of modified motor cars and motorcycles. The display included a notice board, which had a description of the original ride by Jack Bowers and Frank Smith in 1929.Included also a list of the following sponsors:
BIG4 CARAVAN PARK
AUSTRALIAN GEOGRAPHIC
UNDERDOG LEATHERS
TAYLOR BOWRING FINANCIAL SERVICES
WESTERN QBE
HERBALIFE
HEAVY DUTY
GLH(CUSTOM FRAMES & MOTORCYCLES)
SIGMA SAURUS
SIGNMAKERS
The day was due to begin with Graham Felton arriving with the Harley at the venue outside the Dome at 12 noon however, due to a number of delays including interviews, he did not arrive until just prior to 1pm almost causing John Sinclair to have palpitations (John being the organiser and thus responsible for the time table).
Prior to departure Graham and John recounted to the assembly (around 100 people) the original ride by Jack and Frank and explained the purpose of the re-enactment (being the 75th anniversary and as a means of rasing money for the Ageing and Alzheimer’s Research Foundation). Dr Jillian Kril (Vice President of AARF) spoke on behalf of that organization &
Neale Brumby( the Editor) spoke on behalf of the HEAVY DUTY magazine.
Around 1.30 pm we got under way to Wisemans Ferry, Graham riding the Harley with an escort of 30 cyclists, stopping along the Old Northern road for a Photo Shoot.
Arriving at the Ski Resort 4.30 we set up camp and enjoyed a Sausage BBQ amply provided by John from his Trailer/Chuck Wagon. The Day-Trippers departed around Dusk allowing the rest of us to retire after a few drinks and a get - together.
DAY TWO, WISEMANS FERRY TO TAMWORTH
John was up early (6 am preparing a hot breakfast of left over sausages and bread rolls, there being sufficient of both to last the group for almost a week). He hoped by doing so that we would be able to get away early as it was to be a long day of some 365 km’s. The engine of the Harley not being fully “Run-In” requiring a slower trip. Unfortunately this was not to be as the chief rider (no names) slept in and actually had to be woken. Whilst waiting John explained to all of us the workings of the Chuck Wagon designed, amongst other things, as a Camp Kitchen which is available to all.
Finally we did get under way with the following people:
Ron Macmaster, Bev Ryan, *Susanne Burton, *John Gardiner, Lindsay Bennis, *Frank Wheeler, *Rita Ciprakovic, George Hammond, Jenny Hammond, *Jacque Walburn, *Bill Walburn, *Wendy Sinclair, *John Sinclair, *Brian Jones, & our rider extraordinary *Graham Felton.
*These people intend doing the complete circuit.
After crossing the river by Ferry and a relatively uneventful day with stops for morning tea, lunch and fuel stops, we arrived at Tamworth around dusk, where Joy Ross was waiting for us.
DAY 3, TAMWORTH TO TENTERFIELD
Rather a late start again (similar problem to yesterday). After a photo shoot we got started around 9.30,the cyclists visiting the Motor Cycle Museum before setting out. We had a photo shoot on the banks of the Peel River where Joy Ross conducted a lengthy interview with Model J George. The group tended to split up leaving Tamworth but we all met up for lunch at Guyra where Bob Martin joined us as a day rider, and then Adrian and Selena Sweetman joined us on the ride into Tenterfield. We arrived at the caravan park at 5 o’clock and set up camp. The evening being cool we decided to adjourn to the hotel for a meal and a drink.
DAY 4 TENTERFIELD TO SOUTHPORT.
Cold, cold, cold and more cold--at least minus 6. Frozen taps and vehicles iced up. Everyone gathered around the warmth of the BBQ while Lindsay made use of Brian’s blow heat to thaw our his feet. Being cold we got a fairly early start. We had arranged before leaving to stop at Warwick for morning tea but we were running late as Joy’s accelerator cable came loose
requiring temporary adjustments to got her to Warwick where her bike was repaired. At McDonalds there was a photo shoot and interview with Col Furness of the Daily Mail. Here we said goodbye temporarily to George and Jenny Hammond and Joy Ross. We stopped for lunch at Aratulia and had sandwiches and a drink. After lunch Adrian and Selena left us before we moved on again for another photo shoot at Boonah with Paul Rowley from the Courier Mail. At this time Graham mentioned that the steering on the outfit was a bit heavy and it was decided that this would be looked at in Southport. Once again we arrived at the Big 4 Caravan Park around dusk where Channel 9 (Gold Coast) did for a live television news interview. Graham, the manager of the Park, ushered us to our various camping spots in a very friendly and component manner while Graham Felton was being interviewed. After this everyone adjourned to the Bistro for a meal and watched the final game of State of Origin.
DAY 5 SOUTHPORT.
Last evening we made contact with Kim Giardulla and he kindly offered to come to the Park and make whatever adjustments were necessary to the outfit. As good as his word he arrived at 7.30 am and immediately commenced work adjusting the steering damper on the front forks and spent the rest of the day tidying up the bike. He kindly donated his time and expertise.
DAY 6 SOUTHPORT.
A well earned Rest Day.
DAY 7 SOUTHPORT TO TOOWOOMBA
This day began with some cloud and a forecast of showers and sure enough
it did as we were packing up. Despite this we managed to get away almost on
time at 8am after rhe obligatory group photos. Initially we were led to the
local Harley Davidson agent then on to the Brisbane Harley Davidson agent
where Channel 9 did some filming & interviewed Graham (Bruce to some) & John
(Sassy to most) whilst the rest of us enjoyed a sausage sizzle provided by
the agents’ people. As our arrival was some 3 hours before the scheduled
departure time (1pm) there was plenty of time to sell shirts, books, raffle
tickets, meet old friends, make new ones & admire the many bikes on display.
Sassy was particularly interested (drooling just a little) and collected so
much information he finally complained of mental overload & gave up.
Finally Graham and his entourage of many riders (too many to count - could
have been up to 40 or so) took off with Channel Nine filming the start
(later seen on TV). This group of riders accompanied us as far as Gatton
where another group ushered us to Toowoomba. Between Brisbane & Toowoomba
there were a number of showers, some, quite heavy, which was possibly
unpleasant for some, but when reminded that there were those who were quite
dry (a few of our permanent riders have two way radios) the response was
that they had air conditioning it was suggested they try to turn it off.
On reaching Toowoomba the local Harley Davidson Dealer had put on a BBQ.
Some stayed and the rest of the touring party booked in at the Caravan Park
& then returned to the BBQ.
The coming & going of people has become too complicated, so we will stop
recording that part of our adventure for the time being.
DAY 8 TOOWOOMBA TO ROMA
A very eventful day. The rain cleared over night leaving us with
acceptable temperatures, for Toowoomba. Edwin Willey organised a fund
raising breakfast at the Bridge Club premises. A jazz group provided very
enjoyable music whilst our group were able to sell a very satisfying number
of shirts, raffle tickets & books. We were due to got on the road by 10.30,a
little short of that time Graham with some prompting from Di Tate retold the
story of the original travellers & explained the purpose of our
re-enactment. Finally one of the councillors spoke about the importance of
research into Alzheimers & wishing us success & a safe journey.
Finally we got under way, only a little late, with an escort of riders who
accompanied us as far as Dalby with a couple of riders travelling further.
The usual stops were made for morning tea, lunch & fuel. Increasingly Graham
was having difficulty getting the Harley started causing considerable
delays. Finally John decided to reset the Tappets, which is a very finicky
operation. Unfortunately this did not make much difference. Finally after a
number of other adjustments suggested by some of the very knowledgeable
riders we got under way having lost a considerable amount of time.
Although the performance of the machine was still unsatisfactory we
progressed through the dark watching all the time for Skippy (many dead ones
at the side of the road & some on the road). All went reasonably well until
about 20 km from Roma the Harley ran out of fuel causing a further delay.
Finally arriving at the Big 4 Caravan Park where we were cordially welcomed
& directed to our camping sites.
DAY 9 ROMA TO CHARLEVILLE
John was up very early making further adjustments and after a few minor ones on the road Graham enjoyed a great improvement. Due to a reasonably early start, & after another interview, together with a slightly shorter distance (less than 300km) the group arrived at the Bailey Bar Caravan Park at the wonderfully early time of 4 pm. Thus allowing some of us to visit the Bilbies, watch the Stars and /or visit one of the local Clubs.
DAY 10 CHARLEVILLE TO BLACKALL
The day started with a fund raising breakfast hosted by the Lions Club at
the Historical Centre, with Juice, Bacon and Egg Roll, Billy Tea or Coffee
as required, all for $5.The local riders manned a table at the gate and sold
many raffle tickets, shirts and books. Heartfelt thanks to them .We were due
to get under way at 10am and were just about to start when Elvis (nick name)
from Lockrose QLD one of the local riders, and a very knowledgeable one at
that, noticed that some of the spokes on the inside of the outfit’s rear
wheel were broken (turned out to be 6 in all). He immediately set to work,
in the main street, and replaced the offensive items with a spare wheel.
This took an hour or so and we were about to leave when he offered to take
the wheel home and re-spoke it and then pass it on to John & Sue Gardner who
would be catching up to us at Barcaldine. What wonderful people there are in
this world!
Under way at last, a stop at Augathella for Morning Tea where Sassy (John)
took over the riding duties being fairly reserved as far as Tambo where
Lunch was had. After Lunch he found the Throttle and reached 90km at times
so that we arrived at the Blackall Caravan Park in good time to set up camp
and for some to swim in the heated Pool. As Joy Ross was to leave us the
following morning most of us adjourned to the Pub for a T-Bone and a few
drinks. A most enjoyable evening.
DAY 11 BLACKALL TO BARCALDINE
Blackall to Barcaldine being only 107km meant there was time for some
shopping and a visit to the Wool Scouring demonstration before setting out.
Arriving for lunch we were finally able to set up camp on a grassy area (the
original area allocated was a new part of the park & was bare dirt, but John
was able to negotiate a change). The evening was spent listening to country
music followed by Damper & Billy Tea. Graham was able to give an outline of
our mission allowing the sale of the fund raising paraphernalia.
During the afternoon John & Sue Gardner arrived with the re-spoked wheel.
When asked if there had been any problems with the re-spoking , John
hesitated (Sassy was listening) before explaining, after a little prompting,
that the spokes supplied by Sassy were the wrong length. John & Elvis then
chased around their mates & were able to obtain a suitable set. Many, many
thanks Fellers.
Yet another example of the generosity of some people. Ron went to one of the
pubs for his evening meal and he noticed a
lady reading the Courier Mail (which by the way only arrived in town that
day & was the Monday edition). The paper carried an article about our
expedition and a photo, which included Ron (he is particularly noticeable as
he has red hair, although not much, & a beard of similar colour).
Ron drew her attention to the photo & asked if she recognised any one, she
looked up and said “it’s you” and promptly offered a donation. Finished with
the paper she passed it on to a gentleman who also made a donation, both
these people doing so without any prompting. What great people!
DAY 12 BARCALDINE TO LONGREACH
Once again only a short hop of 107km. Sassy doing this leg. Stopping at Ilfracombe to view all the old machinery displayed by the roadside and arriving at the Gunnadoo Caravan Park in plenty of time to book in & set up camp. In the afternoon the Box was taken off the outfit & repositioned (It had been considerably out of line).
That evening Peter gave some of us in interesting summary of his & his wife’s travels in many countries around the world on their motor cycle. This was followed by an excellent meal prepared by Wendy & John the rest of the evening we sat around talking.
DAY 13 LONGREACH
The day was spent shopping, visiting the Stockman’s Hall of Fame, touring the Jumbo Jet, or just relaxing. In the evening a number of us took the Sunset Tour on the Thompson River followed by entertainment & a great meal, whilst others did a pub-crawl selling raffle tickets. Well done John & Ron. Altogether an enjoyable day.
DAY 14 LONGREACH TO WINTON
This leg is 179km allowing us to arrive in Winton at lunchtime. Thus
after an easy run with a stop for morning tea & a fuel stop for the outfit
(its range is around 130km) we were able to set up camp in ample time for
our people to explore the town & visit the Matilda Centre.
Sassy (John) & Bruce (Graham) took the opportunity to change the oil in the
Harley (which is running sweetly). Later Sassy adjusted the clutch after
some outside advice (some difficulty had been experienced engaging first
gear) causing some of us to stand behind the machine ready to pick up the
gear teeth should Graham become too aggressive when starting off.
Peter & Kay were to leave us the following morning & return to Townsville so
we all adjourned to the Hotel, which turned on a Smorgasbord, this included
a helping of Shepherd’s Pie enjoyed by all. During our meal David, the
Proprietor, gave the version of Waltzing Matilda accepted by the Matilda
Centre. Later he the loaded up the Pianola around which we gathered and had
a good old singsong. Another very enjoyable evening.
DAY 15 WINTON TO CLONCURRY
330km of reasonable going with the topography changing from open plains to rolling hills with the occasional outcrop of rocky knolls. For the first time termite mounds appeared, at this stage only small in height arriving at the Caravan Park mid afternoon allowed for a relaxed time setting up camp. On the way a stop was made at Kynuna where we were given the alternate version of the birth of Waltzing Matilda. Unfortunately Sassy had been unwell all day and consequently missed the barbecued fish and the entertainment, all for a very reasonable $9.50.
DAY 16 CONCLURRY TO MOUNT ISA VIA DUCHESS
Leaving Cloncurry a little later than planned, Ron (Blue) went to a
Technician, hoping to improve the transmission of his two way radio (very
distorted), unfortunately to no avail.
9km out, some of us turned left towards Duchess (in 1929 the direct road did
not exist) the remainder going straight ahead to Mount Isa. The road to
Duchess was sealed for 40km, the remainder being dirt, a reasonable surface
although quite dusty. Stopping at the hotel for a break & the taking of
photos we had to take shelter from the wind. Very cold, this wind has been
blowing for almost a week.
Setting out again we stopped a short distance down the road for lunch,
moving on and turning north with some trepidation as Di had painted a very
gloomy picture of the condition of this stretch of 93km to the Isa. Although
somewhat like a roller coaster with many twists & turns we were pleasantly
surprised to find the grader had been at work. Ron (Blue) however, on his
Honda, did have some interesting moments.
Arrangements had been made for Sassy’s truck to bring up the rear (Graham
driving , Sassy riding) the theory being that the truck would be the least
likely to get into trouble. Not so! 30km down the track & a flat tyre on the
back of the truck turned out to be ruined, Sassy having to buy a new one
next day . This caused quite a flurry of messages on the radio as Sassy was
the only one who knew where the gear was to change it. As he was up front
riding the outfit one of the other riders had to get the message to him (
there is no communication with the rider of the outfit). Sassy returned &
Graham continued on with the others whilst Sassy, Jim & Brian changed the
wheel.
Just short of town an interview & photo shoot had been arranged with the
local media. After visiting the Harley Dealer we arrived safely at the
Riverview Tourist Park.
DAY 17 A REST DAY
The day was spent catching up with washing, doing shopping & sight
seeing. In the evening the local Rotary Club provided a Sausage Sizzle at
their premises where Johno took great delight sneaking dead balls back onto
the snooker table (Johhno is severely disabled and confined to a
wheelchair).
DAY 18 ISA TO CAMOOWEAL
The road from Isa to Camooweal is single track sealed for most of the way with an occasional short length of dual carriageway. Finally after all these years work is under way broadening the road for the full distance.
A short distance down the road we stopped at a WW2 site which explained the history of the road to Camooweal. Arriving at the Caravan Park in good time to set up camp.
Gordon & John Gardiner were doubtful about travelling the dirt roads. After some discussion re alternatives, the group felt it would be unwise to split up, so it was decided that John’s trailer (he pulls one behind his Harley) would be pulled by Di’s car. Sassy & Blue (Ron) arranged with a local garage man to fabricate a bracket to enable Gordon’s bike to be pulled behind Sassy’s trailer. In the evening we retired to the local pub for a meal.
DAY 19 CAMOOWEAL TO ALEXANDRIA STATION
The Northern Territory border is only a short way from Camooweal, another photo stop! A short distance later we turned off right and followed the old highway from Avon Downs (single-track tar) to Soudan. From there we backtracked about 6km opened a gate & headed north on a dirt road to Alexandria Station.
This road was quite rough & had an accumulation of dirt in rows at the side of the road and beside each vehicle track with pockets of bull dust, very difficult for the bikies. After a short time Gordon decided he had had enough so his bike was loaded onto the back of the trailer using the fitting made at Camooweal, thus creating a mini road-train.
Some 6 km short of the Station, Blue went down, landing front on so that his helmet & visor obscuring his vision to the extent that he thought he was still face down in the dirt. Fortunately he was not badly hurt (dazed, sore ribs & a bang on the nose). Not so the bike, all the plastic flaring around the front left side shattered, the mirror, blinker & screen destroyed. After getting the machine upright, clearing up the mess & the judicious use of duct tape we got under way again, reaching Alexandria Station about dusk. The Station has a wet canteen open from6pm to 7pm, run by the managers wife, which was made good use of.
Alexandria station is many thousand square miles in size (they still refer to its size in miles),carries around 70,000 head of cattle and costs $8,500 a DAY just to keep open.
DAY 20 ALEXANDRIA TO ANTHONY LAGOON
On this leg there is about 100km of dirt, then 100km of sealed road (the Tablelands highway), then a few more km of dirt to Anthony lagoon. Stopping beside a very large derelict windmill for a fuel stop for the outfit. On setting off again more trouble for Blue (he has a small single wheel trailer on his bike). The mounting collapsed causing the trailer to dig into the dirt. It was disconnected and put on the top of Sassy’s trailer. Off again but not for long, the outfit had stopped, Jim was quickly on the job determining that the battery had collapsed. A new one fitted we were soon going again.
Lunch was had at Brunette Downs, the station cook making a wonderful assortment of sandwiches & fruit. More dirt heading west then north up the highway to Anthony lagoon, which is just off the highway. We set up camp right on the lagoon (no facilities here at all), some of us managing a wash in the lagoon, very cold but invigorating. The evening meal was had around the chuck wagon or in the scrub. Cow pats every where, truly a gardeners delight.
DAY 21 ANTHONY LAGOON TO DUNMURRA
Before setting out some great photos of the sunrise were possible. the bird life there is something to be seen, many species from Pelicans to Corellas, no chance of sleeping-in.
Back on the dirt again heading west towards the Stuart Highway. More trouble, this time to John Gardeners Harley. A bracket holding one of the mufflers broke causing the muffler to vibrate and eventually break. The item was removed and added to the collection on Sassy’s trailer. Eventually reaching the highway turning right in a northerly direction. Arriving at Elliot for a fuel stop and refreshments, John got out his hack-saw and attacked John’s muffler reducing one end so that it would fit inside the forward portion of pipe. Then using fencing wire from Brian’s collection, the pipe was firmly attached.
Moving on to Dunmurra for the night. Unfortunately during the night Johno was very ill, so May took off early for Katherine in case he had to be hospitalised. This turned out to be unnecessary as he improved later in the day.
DAY 22 DUNMURRA TO KATHERINE
What a relief to be travelling on a sealed road again! After a stop for fuel etc we met up with fifteen riders from Katherine who escorted us the 100km into town where after some discussion with the office we set up camp in a very acceptable position.
DAY 23 REST DAY
The day was spent shopping, sight seeing, doing mechanical repairs & resting.
DAY 24 REST DAY
Somewhat similar to Monday some people taking a helicopter ride others taking the boat trip up the gorge. In the evening we pushed the outfit around the Caravan Park explaining our expedition & selling shirts, raffle tickets & books. The results were very pleasing. Digby arrived! Digby is the very valuable person who has made all the arrangements for our visit to Darwin more of that later.
DAY 25 KATHERINE TO GROVE HILL
John and Sue were to proceed direct to Darwin as the replacement parts for their Harley had arrived. Gordon was uncomfortable about tackling dirt again ( 60km of the 153km of the road to Grove Hill). John & Sue agreed to accompany him up the highway to another turn off , meaning only a short distance of dirt. Stopping for lunch at Pine Creak we were soon on the dirt road which turned out to be quite rough at times with deep dips, some having rocky bottoms. Travelling this road we crossed & at times, ran parrel to, the new railway line. Digby directed us to a derelict mining camp at Mt Wells with many old buildings some containing numerous machines including a number of old motor cycles missing all sorts of bits & pieces.
Arriving at the hotel we were welcomed by the hosts Stan & Mary who allocated our various sights for the night. This is an extremely old place with accommodation of a similar vintage. However the hospitality was great & when Stan suggested an evening BBQ for $10 most of the group jumped at the idea. The resultant feed was great & was followed by a songster, playing his guitar & singing many old favourites, a very pleasant evening. The area around the hotel is filled with very old rusty & useless things, old motor vehicles huge gear wheels etc.
DAY 26 GROVE HILL TO BATCHELOR
Blue & Brian were up early photographing the sunrise behind the old cars and the windmill. After breakfast another photo shoot in front of an old railway building. Setting out towards the highway several of us took a wrong turn making the return to the highway longer than necessary. Back on course we headed towards the Douglas Daly Hot Springs. , The Road to the turn off was sealed, but afterwards was very corrugated and rough & included a water crossing. Gordon found the going too tough, turned round and proceeded on to the Douglas Daily Caravan Park where we were to meet later. The way into the Hot Springs area although difficult was well worthwhile as the dip in the spring waters was enjoyed. The group continued on to the Douglas Daly Caravan Park for a brief stop to refresh & refuel. Then on to Adelaide River for lunch. Here we were met by several riders who travelled from Darwin to join us. They escorted us to the park at Batchelor. That evening Blue(Ron) turned on a great stir-fry causing some to comment that he should be made the groups permanent Chef.
DAY 27 REST DAY AT BATCHELOR
An early start for Digby, Graham, Sassy, Wendy & Ron to do a dry run to Darwin checking the time table for Saturday. (Most important as a number of dignitaries would be waiting for us at Parliament house). The remainder of the group spent the day exploring Litchfield National Park. that evening several riders came down from Darwin & stayed the night ready for the big day on Saturday.
DAY 28 BATCHELOR TO DARWIN
The day started with the usual briefing from Graham & a reading by Di from the 1929 diary. Digby spelt out the time table for the mornings ride being very insistent that the it be strictly adhered to, (as there would be a number of media interviews & TV shoots on the way he had built in several buffer stops to allow for any unforseen incidents).
Arriving in time for a 9am start were a number of riders, which grew to some 30 odd as we travelled along. The plan was to have the older bikes. (Including several vintage machines), lead the convoy, followed by Sassy in the outfit then, the newer bikes, then the truck driven by Wendy, then Brian‘s 4WD & van with the single cars bringing up the rear.
On this occasion our start was right on time, all went well for the first half hour, then a blown tyre on the chuck -wagon, rubber flying through the air ,the noise so loud Wendy heard it in the truck. She handled the situation well pulling to the side of the road . Brian & Jim after radioing the news to the riders up front, (remember we have no radio communication with the outfit) suggested that the following cars keep going, then started to change the wheel. In the mean time Ron had got the message to Sassy and brought him back on the pillion seat of his bike. A team effort followed & in about 20 minutes the wheel was changed . A stop had been planned before reaching Palmerston to regroup, the truck and the van arriving just as the convoy started off to Palmerston where the machine was put on display.
The stay at the shopping centre was for 45 minutes allowing for media coverage and the usual collection of donations. Leaving Palmerston we were to regroup down the road for the final run into Darwin, but as certain gentlemen were tardy leaving, Digby decided to go straight on, causing the group to become splintered .No harm done however, at this stage Sassy was riding with Graham in the box. Just short of the city centre, Graham gave up his seat to the Chief Minister, Clare Martin, for the final run to government house, Graham rode on the back of Digby’s bike. At Parliament House the Administrator, Ted Eagan, & the Lord Mayor , Peter Adamson, were there to welcome the group. Unfortunately Ted Egan had to leave almost immediately for another appointment.
Digby started the speeches introducing first the Chief Minister, then the Lord Mayor, with Graham responding. The manager of Australia Post stamped the Log book ( the riders in 1929 had a logbook stamped at all the major cities to prove that they had been where they said they were). After some time chatting informally to the dignities, we left for the Lee Point caravan park.
DAY 29 A DAY IN DARWIN
The morning was free for shopping, washing , cleaning up dust etc. In the afternoon Digby arranged to have the outfit to put on display at the old Qantas hanger. this hanger is used by a group who collect old machinery cars, trucks etc. The occasion was an open day with a large crowd allowing for a satisfying collection & the sale of many books, shirts & raffle tickets. The evening was spent at the famous Darwin markets at Mindil beach.
DAY 30 THE DARWIN CUP
Graham & Digby were off early to set up the outfit in the corporate area of the racecourse. Arrangements had been made for them to ride up the track past all the tents & return at 11.30, so a dozen of us arranged for a bus to the course where we arrived around ten. To our surprise there was not a seat to be had in the huge covered areas, people were streaming in until late in the afternoon. Must have been 25 - 30,000 by the time of the Darwin Cup scheduled to run at 5.20.
The bike ride was to be accompanied by a commentary over the PA system explaining the purpose of the ride. Unfortunately very little was said & what was could not be heard above the din of people talking. Our group lined up at the end of the far tent & as soon as the machine appeared we started collecting working until after 1pm when Sassy managed to get us into the corporate area. Jim & Jane (Jim’s friend Jane, flew in two days before) left for the airport at 12 (off to Alice Springs).
The results of collecting for the Foundation were very satisfying, could have been better had there not been security guards on most of the entrances to the corporate areas. On the other hand passers by were very generous, in some instances creating, some amusing situations. One in particular is worth recording. In the afternoon Gordon, (remember he is nearly 82) had worked hard collecting all morning, fronted a gentleman who came to look at the bike, & asked for a donation The gent who was holding a stubby said he had left his money in the tent, Gordon immediately grabbed the stubby saying he would hold the beer while the man got his money, In due course he returned with a $50 note & asked for $30 change. Sassy was holding a collection bag dipped in and pulled out a $20 note saying that was all the change he had. The chap finished up making a donation of $30 graciously joining in the general laughter. The day ended with a bus trip home at 6pm,all very tired but satisfied.
DAY 31 A REST DAY
Site seeing, shopping for some, Sassy, John & Brian were up at 4am taking a fishing trip on a lagoon off the Mary river, an enjoyable day with limited success, John catching nothing Sassy the top score in numbers, but loosing the biggest fish of the day. It was left to Brian to provide the evening meal with a feed of Barramundi. Another enjoyable day.
DAY 32 DARWIN TO MARY RIVER CARAVAN PARK
Only a short trip of about 100km today, so a chance to shop, go to the bank etc before setting out. On the way visits were made to the Fog dam & the Wetlands viewing centre. Arriving at the park in good time to set up camp in a large grassed area near the Mary River, a boat trip being available. The amenities were most unusual being situated in a corner of a very large shed.
DAY33 MARY RIVER TO UBIRR
The group split up on the run to Ubirr some visiting points of interest others going on to Jabiru shopping before proceeding to the Border Store. A short visit to the campground caused concern as some of us were under the impression that the only facilities were toilets and as the day had been hot a shower was high on the agenda. All turned out well however as the ablutions block was to be one of the best designs encounted so far with solar powered showers.
Visits were made to Ubirr rock that evening and the following morning. Climbing the rock for the magnificent scenery & viewing the Aboriginal art. The evening was spent with a BBQ beside a camp fire, the only problem being hordes of mosquitoes.
DAY 34 UBIRR TO COOINDA
A short stop at Jabiru and a visit to Nourlangie Rock before arriving at Cooinda. That evening & the following morning provided the opportunity to take a boat trip through the wetlands surrounding Jim Jim creek & the South Alligator river. What a wonderful, magnificent place, the Floodplains with so many species & huge numbers of birds, numerous Crocodiles, with over 40 species of fish. This is what Kakadu is all about. The banks of the South Alligator are covered with Paperbark trees, Fresh Water Mangroves, Bamboo, and many types of fern. A really inspiring place.
DAY 35 COOINDA TO KATHERINE
Stopping at Wirnwirnmila Mary River Roadhouse for morning tea were also a young couple travelling through Australia in a 4WD Camper Wagon, the engine of which had died ( apparently blown a piston). Sassy immediately offered a tow, which was accepted, & proceeded to hook up the 4WD to the back of his trailer with a rigid towing bar some 3 meters long, thus creating another Road Train. At this stage Digby drove the truck to Pine Creek allowing Sassy the opportunity of riding Digby’s Harley. The tow continued for the final 91km to Katherine where Kit & Roger ( the young couple from Holland), joined us in the Caravan Park.
DAY 36 REST DAY AT KATHERINE
The day provided us with an opportunity to shop, wash clothes and explore Katherine. A boat tour in the gorge for those who had not done so previously. In the afternoon the old Springvale Homestead was visited, where a detailed history of the place was given by one of the volunteers dressed in period costume. On the way back to the Caravan Park Johno (remember he is confined to a wheelchair) was, to his great delight, given a ride in the outfits box.
The previous evening Peter & David joined us having flown their bikes (two quite old bikes one a Harley & the other an Indian) from Melbourne to Darwin to do the ride from Katherine to Old Halls Creek. Digby turned up with a badly twisted knee after a fall ( Turk Digby & two of his mates had taken a side trip to collect some Crocodile skin). Whisked off to Hospital there appeared to be nothing broken & a visit to the Physio next morning saw his leg bandaged from ankle to thigh. That night we had a great BBQ sitting around & talking, with naturally the occasional drink.
DAY 37, 38, 39, & 40 KATHERINE TO OLD HALLS CREEK
Your scribe apologises for lumping all those days together as he got well behind with his recording as well as being somewhat confused about what happened when and where.
Michelle (a friend of Graham’s who joined us at Darwin) caught a bus back to Darwin and home from there. The route from Katherine to Old Halls Creek included about 430km of dirt from Kalkarindji to Old Halls Creek, so John Sue & Gordon opted to take the sealed road to Halls Creek & rejoin the rest of us there.
The road was sealed as far as Kalkarindji were Digby & Turk were to leave the group (Digby having commitments in Darwin). At this point we give our heartfelt thanks to Digby, not only for the magnificent way he organised our time in the Top End, but for being such a good mate. A note or two about Kalkarindji, it is an Aboriginal settlement where Alcohol is not permitted nor transported through the town. The first thing seen on entering the town was an empty carton of VB at the side of the road. The town is the last fuel stop for 480km does not open until 9am and closes at 5pm Monday to Friday with half day in Saturday & closed altogether on Sunday.
On this part of the journey we stayed at Top Springs (a Pub), Wave Hill Station, Flora Valley Station & Old Halls Creek Lodge! With visits to Delamere Station, Inverway Station & Nicholson Station. There is much history to be told about this area, unfortunately insufficient space here to record any of it. At all of the Stations visited, the hospitality offered us was absolutely superb and very much appreciated.
The dirt road was reasonable in patches and quite poor in others with corrugations and some bulldust, the last 25km or so through to hills before Old Halls Creek being extremely rough and rocky, the total distance being very dusty.
After the visit to Nicholson, Sassy & Ron were bringing up the rear of the convoy and had got out of CB range. Arriving at Flora Valley Station a time had elapsed with no sight of them. Dusk was approaching when a young couple arrived with news. Approximately 100km short of Flora Valley DISASTER! One of the stub axles on the chuck wagon parted company causing the wheel to run of on its own, Sassy looking on in dismay. The result of all this was severe damage to the under carriage of the trailer. Sassy and Ron set to and jacked up the trailer resting it on 44-gallon drums (fortunately they had stopped at a rest area). Removed the offending parts & packed all the tents etc. into the campervan. As dark was nearing it would have been impossible for Ron to travel so his machine was secreted in the bushes & he travelled with Sassy and Wendy to Flora Valley.
Next morning, with the help of one of the station staff the stub axle was re-welded. Sassy, Wendy, Ron & Brian then retraced the 100km, recovering Ron’s bike & proceeded to re-assemble the trailer. Finally getting under way with the trailer crabbing along at reduced speed, Flora Station was eventually reached. One of the shackle supports was then removed & replaced allowing us to proceed after loading the tents etc left behind by the rest of the group. Arriving at Old Halls Creek in the late afternoon after covering some of the roughest road yet. That evening Graham did a Great job BBQing steakes supplied by David and Peter who were to leave us the following morning.
The Old Hall Creek Lodge is run down, the ablution block being barely acceptable, so some of our group left for Halls Creek the following morning (we were due to stay at Old Halls Creek for two nights).
DAY 41 REST DAY AT OLD HALLS CREEK
Sassy & Wendy left early for Halls Creek for supplies & fuel, during their absence it was discovered that there was damage to the bearing assembly of the rear wheel on the outfit & that the rear brakes were ineffective, Graham with the help of another traveller proceeded with repairs.
DAY 42 OLD HALLS CREEK TO FITZROY CROSSING
Those who had travelled the sealed road from Katherine rejoined the group at Halls Creek. Eventually after the usual refuelling & ‘phone calls the we set off with the expectation of an easy run to Fitzroy Crossing. Not so, 30km out of town the old Harley died and refused to re-start. After many unsuccessful attempts the machine was hooked up to the back of the chuck- wagon (a mini road train again) & towed to the caravan park with Graham & Sassy taking it in turns to steer the bike. That afternoon visits were made to the gorge and the old Pub.
DAY 43 FITZROY CROSSING TO DERBY
After replacing some wiring which had had the insulation burnt, many attempts were made to start the bike, including towing to clutch start it, but to no avail. So the tow continued toward Derby. Graham had arranged afternoon tea at a Station unfortunately only the cars with the ladies and Frank’s Bike made it as after travelling 12km of the 27 km distance, the rough road & the dust proved too much for the bike its rider & the chuck-wagon which was bouncing alarmingly.
DAY 44 REST DAY AT DERBY
Sassy decided to forgo the rest day and head for Broome with Wendy driving the mini road train & Sassy astride the bike. (Spare head gaskets were waiting at the motor cycle shop & he wanted to have as much time as possible to effect repairs). Ten of the rest of the troop took an amphibian aero plane to the horizontal waterfall landing on the water, then transferred to a speed boat for the final leg. All concerned enjoyed the morning with the magnificent scenery. The climax being the boat actually going through the fall & back again, then backing right up into the turbulence. After returning to the airport some members went directly to Broome, while others spent an extra evening in Derby.
DAY 45, 46,47 BROOME
As noted before some of the group travelled to Broome on Monday the remainder spending Monday in Derby and motoring to Broome on Tuesday.
Sassy & Graham spent most of Tuesday working on the bike fitting a new head gasket to one of the cylinders. The remainder of the stay was spent site seeing, fishing & shopping. On our last night we had a party at which John presented Sue with an engagement ring much to the delight of all present & particularly Sue.
DAY 48 BROOME TO ANNA PLAINS STATION
The itinerary listed Sandfire Roadhouse as being our stop for this night; Graham however had made arrangements to stay at Anna Plains Station, which would allow us to travel over part of the old coast road. Special signs had been made & placed on the highway by Geoff & his wife Debra (workers at the station) indicating the turn off. They were waiting for us and were to show us the way. Our information was that the road had been graded specially for us, unfortunately this turned out to be far from factual, initially being red soil with bulldust and later turned into white sand tracks running parrel to the ocean which at no time was visible being hidden behind sand dunes. Ron again was the one to suffer, his machine just not being suitable for those conditions, & as a result he “lost it” half a dozen times. As a consequence he opted to carry on to the Sandfire Roadhouse for the night. On arrival at the Station we were delighted with the extensive grassed areas on which we permitted to set up camp for the night.
DAY 49 ANNA PLAINS STATION TO PORT HEADLAND
Before leaving Anna plains we were introduced to David the manager to whom we chatted for some time. Geoff then made a short speech presenting the group with a tin containing two pounds of flour (the original travellers called to Anna Plains and requested some flour, which was supplied together with (to their dismay), an invoice for two shillings and sixpence.
Proceeding on to the Sandfire Roadhouse accompanied by Geoff & Debra who left us there. After refuelling we carried on towards Port Headland. 25km out ELVIE (the outfit) decided she had had enough & once again DISASTER this time rating at least 9 on a scale of 1 to 10. The motor had seized completely. Back to the road train to the Caravan Park at Port Headland.
DAY 50 PORT HEADLAND TO MARBLE BAR
Road train again after unsuccessful attempts to rig up the tow without a rider, thus we arrived at Marble Bar late in the afternoon. That evening after a number of ‘phone calls a decision was made to send the motor express to Perth for repairs, Ron to be the courier on his bike. So we set to & after about 4 hours & considerable cursing removed the motor. During all of this Rita managed to cook up a great Spaghetti Bolognaise.
DAY 51 MARBLE BAR TO NEWMAN
Up early attaching the motor to Ron’s pillion and then cleaning up the site & putting all the tools back in order. The plan was for Sassy and Graham to share the ride behind the chuck wagon. This turned out to be an unpleasant experience as the distance to be travelled was around 300km two thirds dirt. The road turned out to be in quite good conditioned but very dusty. Unfortunately somewhere along the way part of the clutch assembly vibrated loose & was lost. Frank & Rita backtracked but were unable to find it. More ‘Phone calls to Perth & it seems a replacement would be available. The scenery along this stretch is truly wonderful alternating between stark red rock hills & wide plains.
DAY 52 NEWMAN TO MEEKATHARRA
This leg was some 420km on an excellent sealed surface although the scenery was rather drab. Sassy & Graham took turns riding the motor - less bike, otherwise an uneventful day.
DAY 53 MEEKATHARRA TO MT. MAGNET
Sassy, Wendy, Bruce, Frank & Rita set off early to try & reach Dalwallinu in one day as the plan was to have the motor delivered to Wourie Pool on Thursday afternoon. A ’phone call from Ron before they left brightened the day, which started cold, cloudy & looked like rain. He reported that the motor had been inspected and would be reparable. Apparently the piston in the rear cylinder had melted running down into the sump & damaging the con- rod in the process.
The remainder of us carried on with the original itinerary visiting Cue on the way to Mt. Magnet. The caravan park was quite a surprise with excellent facilities, being completely full by evening. The town is surrounded by gold mines both open cut & below ground, the whole area covered with huge mullock heaps.
DAY 54 MT. MAGNET TO DALWALLINU
320km of sealed road proved relatively easy going & after a stop at Paynes Find for morning tea arrived at the caravan park at 2.30. The high lite of this stage was the wild flowers, a magnificent display with vivid colours of yellow, blue, white, pink, mauve & magenta being prominent. Close to Dalwallinu the countryside greened considerably with the wheat fields adding to the vista. On arrival we learnt that Sassy & Graham had left that morning successfully completing the drive of yesterday.
DAY 55 DALWALLINU TO WOURIE POOL
Wourie Pool is a property ( farm) a short distance south of New Norcia and is where the repaired motor was re-installed after being expertly overhauled by Stuart Fyfe. The installation was completed at 3am at which time Stuart returned to his home. It is difficult to put into words our gratitude to people like Stuart who devote their time & expertise to our equipment. Many many thanks Stuart.
Wourie Pool was to be a meeting place for some of the riders from Perth and so it was with half a dozen turning up. Those of us who had stayed the previous night at Dalwallinu split up with our riders proceeding directly to Perth whilst Brian went to the farm joining Sassy, Wendy, Graham, & Ron. The afternoon was miserable with showers which eventually cleared to a very cold night intensified as we were camped in a cow paddock.
During the afternoon Graham & Sassy took turns riding the bike, without the side car, to run up some km in order to “run in” the reconditioned motor. Both reported that the machine was running sweetly.
DAY 56 WOURIE POOL TO PERTH
Setting off at 8am we were intermittently joined by groups of riders until we had an escort of at least 80 riders, what a sight! Unfortunately Elvie was not finished giving us a hard time & expired again having to be towed to Fraser Motor Cycles where a sausage sizzle had been prepared. After a number of speeches and donations from the various Bike organizations Stewart came to the rescue again as, to our great relief, he offered to take the outfit home & carry out the necessary repairs. We then journeyed to the excellent 5 star Big 4 Caravan Park at Forrestfield.
DAYS 57, 58 & 59 REST DAYS IN PERTH
These days were spent recovering & doing the touristy thing. On the Tuesday Graham & Sassy collected the outfit from Stuart, the repairs being successfully completed.
DAY 60 PERTH TO MERREDIN
Leaving the Big4 Park at 9am we travelled to the city where the Lord Mayor was to give us a send off. Around 20 bikes had assembled on the lawn outside the City of Perth Council Chambers. The group was chaired by the Director of the Perth HOG chapter who introduced first Graham & then the Lord Mayor each of whom made speeches. Present also was a representative of the WA branch of the Alzheimers association.
Speeches concluded we hit the road again. But not for long, having travelled for not more than 300 metres the drive belt of John & Sue’s Harley broke (a very expensive item). After some discussion a ‘phone call to Fraser Motor Cycles was made. Sassy stayed with John while the rest of the group carried on. Sassy would follow once he was satisfied that a new belt would be fitted. John & Sue would also follow once repairs were completed, & so it happened. The rest of us carried on picking up May and Jono on the way (they had stayed with friends in Perth). All this time the outfit was running sweetly, much to our relief, & has continued to do so up to the time of writing this in Kalgoorlie.
Sassy & Wendy arrived in Merredin at dusk, John and Sue several hours later. That evening we enjoyed a stew based on lamb chops supplied by John & Sue & cooked by John before Leaving Perth. The Caravan Park was situated right next to the highway & the railway line, not a good sleep that night as at times it seemed that trains and road trains were coming right through the park.
DAY 61 MERREDIN TO KALGOORLIE
This leg was of 334km of relative uneventful travelling initially through the quite beautiful wheat belt & later through sparsely timbered country, noticed were a number of what appeared to salt pan flats.
The usual stops were made for morning tea & lunch. Prior to arriving at Coolgardie we were met by two motor cyclists riding old Harley machines of about the same vintage as ours. One of them being beautifully restored the other (which had a sidecar) in original condition. The story about the outfit was that the bike was recovered from a watercourse on a property where it had been for years. These riders accompanied us into Kalgoorlie arriving at the Big4 Park mid afternoon. That evening a number of us had an enjoyable meal at one of the many pubs in town.
DAY 62 REST DAY IN KAOLGOORLIE
This day was spent doing the usual things on rest days. That evening we were treated to a great Chicken Curry prepared & presented by May with help from Jono.
DAY 63 KALGOORLIE TO NORSEMAN
Hopes of an early start were dashed as Elvie would only run a short distance and stop. After spending considerable time testing the electrical system Sassy determined that the battery was flat which suggested that the generator was not functioning correctly. Being Saturday it was difficult to get help. Finally after visiting a number of motor bike shops we were directed to the Battery World shop in Boulder. These people were very helpful supplying us with a 6 volt battery, which unfortunately was not the right size to fit into the bikes battery box. So it was put in the side box and wired from there to the bike.
Finally we got under way and proceeded to Norseman without further incident. That evening the new battery and the old one were wired together in such a way that a 12-volt charger could be used. (Necessary as the 6-volt charger was not functioning).
DAY 64 NORSEMAN TO MADURA
Saturday night it rained for most of it, making for a miserable sleep for the tenters. A reasonably early start was needed as this leg, of 532km is a lengthy one. We had not travelled far when Elvie died again, this time a very serious situation, the primary drive chain had broken and we had no spare. Sassy’s road train again all the way to Madura. That evening a call was made to Perth to have a chain sent by some means to be determined next morning.
DAY 65 MADURA TO NULLARBOR
A late start, after 11am, waiting for information about the shipment of the chain, finally deciding that we should follow the itinerary to Ceduna the chain being sent there by truck. May took over the towing with her 4WD as it was considered that the road train method was too clumsy. After visiting a number of spots along the way to look at & to ‘photo the views (particularly the cliff view from number 5 ‘photo spot) added to the loss of 45 minutes on entering SA meant we arrived at the Roadhouse in the dark.
DAY 66 NULLARBOR TO CEDUNA
A miserable night with a gale blowing & pouring rain which continued well into the day . As a result sight seeing was restricted to that which could be seen while motoring, a visit to the Head of the Bight being pointless. May continued the towing with Graham manning the bike, a miserable job in those conditions. There was one advantage however as the arrangement allowed for a faster speed (the outfits touring speed is 80km/hour) &so we arrived in Ceduna mid afternoon.
The changes in the countryside on this leg were impressive, starting with the treeless vista of the Nullarbor to rolling hills covered with shrubs & trees then opening out to gentle slopes of farm land. At this time of year a bright green with young wheat & the brilliant yellow of canola.
Our information was that the truck carrying the replacement chain would be delivered to the BP truck stop around 5pm. A check later in the evening proved negative.
DAY 67 CEDUNA TO MT IVE
7.30am & off to the BP truck stop this time with success the chain having arrived around midnight. Drizzling rain made working on the bike rather uncomfortable so a temporary shelter was rigged allowing Sassy to install the chain with a modicum of comfort. A number of adjustments were necessary, including a makeshift arrangement for lubricating the primary chain, consequently we did not hit the road until after 11am.
The itinerary nominated Mt Ive as our next overnight stop. However ‘phone calls to there the previous night indicated the dirt road might not be suitable for motor bikes(a considerable amount of rain having fallen on it), so it was decided to inspect the road & then decide whether to proceed. Arriving at Wirrulla(the turn off to Mt Ive) we had lunch & then set off down the dirt road. Initially it was a good surface but gradually got worse as it became sandier and wet, one rider putting his bike down. After travelling 40km we caught up with Graham who had been riding well ahead. The outfit was covered in mud & his jacket spattered with it. He explained that he had struck a stretch of road covered in water and that he felt he was lucky to get through & back again. A group meeting decided it was potentially dangerous for the bikes to continue, so we turned around & returned to the sealed road our intention being to spend the night at Wudinna then continue to Port Augusta the next day.
DAY 68 WUDINNA TO PORT AUGUSTA
After a Bible reading (actually a reading if a copy of the original riders diary) we proceeded to Port Augusta’s Big4 park. Some of the country one this leg is quite arid particularly nearing the Town.
DAY 69 PORT AUGUSTA
Because we had been unable to visit Mt Ive because of the condition of the road we had also missed Siam Station which was an important part of the re-enactment as this was where the original riders had a major breakdown, so it was decided that some of the group including Graham on the output with Ron in the side box try to reach Siam from the other end. After fuelling at Iron Knob we set off on the 50km drive, fortunately the road proved acceptable & we arrived at the station to be met at the front gate by 4 adults and three children all of whom were overjoyed to see us, particularly the children who had been following our journey making up maps & a number of projects.
After a sumptuous morning where Graham was interviewed by one of the boys who had prepared a number of questions, we were given a tour of the Station’s buildings including the schoolhouse the group returned to town.
That afternoon arrangements had been made to put the outfit on display with a group of restored motor cars and cycles on the waterfront of the Spenser Gulf. We nearly froze the wind coming straight across the water. That evening we joined the members at their premises for a 3 course meal, whilst there it rained, and how it rained!
DAY 70 PORT AUGUSTA TO ADELAIDE
306km to Adelaide necessitated an early start for the outfit as the people at the local Harley dealer arranged a sausage sizzle at 11am. At 6am Graham Ron & Brian set off through rain showers & after 3 stops for fuel were joined by the rest of the group & around 20 riders at the outskirts of the City for the ride to the Dealers premises. After the sizzle we drove to the local Big4 Park.
DAY 71 & 72 REST DAY IN ADELAIDE
These two days were spent doing the things we usually do on rest days. Unfortunately the weather was inclement with occasional showers and cold temperatures.
DAY 73 ADELAIDE TO POLICEMANS POINT
An easy leg of 200km with little to report, Elvie making the day with no problem. Policemans Point is an isolated area having a caravan park & a pub, it is situated on the coast road south east of Adelaide in the area called the Coorong. The pub proved to be an excellent place to have our evening meal, all of our group joining in the fun. Hart being presented with a birthday cake.
DAY 74 POLICEMANS POINT TO MT GAMBIER
This leg could have been done either by following highway 1 or diverting to the coast road via Robe & Kingston, our group split up The outfit going by the highway, some of the others going via robe, rejoining at Millicent for the final run to Mt Gambier.
Robe is an attractive fishing village where several of our group managed to obtain Crayfish at very reasonable prices.
The Big 4 park at which some of us stayed is right on the rim of the crater containing the Blue Lake, an ideal setting. The remainder of the group stayed in the old Jail, the cells having been turned into sleeping quarters. Evidently very comfortable except for the ghosts, or was it just Gordon sleep walking.
DAY 75 MT GAMBIER TO WARRNAMBOOL
A later start as the distance to Warrnambool is a relatively short one of 190km allowing for some shopping before leaving. Visits to Portland & Port Fairy were possible on the way. Portland is the site of a large aluminium smelter, Port Fairy being a pretty fishing village.
The big 4 Park is located close to the ocean which could be heard during the night. The weather was still not being kind, cold with occasional drizzle. That evening we all dined in one of the cabins devouring 3 slabs of Pizza, most enjoyable.
DAY 76 WARRNAMBOOL TO GEELONG
Once again a relatively short journey of 175km for those who chose to follow highway arriving at the Big 4 Park mid afternoon. Not so for most of the bike riders who chose to take the challenging & picturesque ride down the Great Ocean Road, arriving at the Park at dusk.
DAY 77 GEELONG TO MELBOURNE
A number of bikes joined us for the run into Melbourne, a relative easy run along the freeway and tollways across a number of bridges and overpasses. David Reidie led the way to his Harley Davidson dealership (Harley City) arriving mid morning allowing us to inspect the huge number of motor cycles and accessories before enjoying a BBQ lunch prepared and cooked by some of his staff.
Harley City is a complex of buildings containing the bike showroom, a separate workshop and warehouse, a bike museum and a restaurant. Whilst there David had his staff of mechanics clean up Elvie and carried out some badly needed repairs. Thanks fellers.
Mid afternoon was booked into the Big4 Holiday Park at Coberg later to return to the Harley City Restaurant for our evening meal (surrounded by old machines up on walls in all sorts of positions). A number of us were late arriving thanks to the local taxi service that completely mucked up the booking. A most enjoyable meal was had by all particularly the dish called Fat Boy, which was actually a monster old fashioned mixed grill. During he evening David opened his museum which contains an amazing collection of old bikes some restored and some in original condition. The evening concluded with speeches by David and Graham.
Our heartfelt thanks go to you David for you help and hospitality.
PS. There is a strong rumour that two of our group are purchasing bikes from Harley City.
DAY 78 MELBOURNE TO ALBURY
Not a lot to report about this leg being 307km of easy driving on a mainly dual divided highway. A short stop was made at Ned Kellys Glenrowan for a rest etc. Of particular interest was the state of the countryside which was painted a brilliant light green the result of recent rain. The effect gave the impression of a huge Golf Course, this vista continued almost to Yass after which the country browned off a little. Elvie now behaving herself & running well (like a horse she must know she is close to home).
DAY 79 ALBURY TO CAMDEN
A long leg, 500km, so our intention was to get an early start at 8:30, not so, the previous day Gordon was getting tired toward the end of the ride so sassy rode his bike & Gordo road in the truck, Wendy driving. Just short of the Van Park somehow Sassy dropped the bike and as a result the damaged the clutch lever, this together with a number of other things meant we did not start until 9.30.
Stops during the day at Holbrook (fuel & phone calls),
Gundagai (photo's at the Dog on the Tuckerbox & Snacks), Yass (fuel & lunch)
& Goulburn (photos) meant we were running late & had no chance of arriving
in Camden in the daylight. Sassy rode the last leg & made a valiant effort
pushing Elvie to new heights running flawlessly at 100km/hr. All in vain as
it was quite dark when we arrived at 7pm.
Arrangements had been made for a bus to take us to the Catholic Club at
Camden for out "Last Supper" at 7.30 some of us battling to make it on time.
We all finally made it and had an enjoyable evening.
DAY 80 WORLD ALZHEIMERS DAY CAMDEN TO CONCORD HOSPITAL, THE HOME OF AGED & ALZHEIMERS RESEARCH FOUNDATION
The day began with a final briefing from Graham & the last "Bible" reading from Ron (a copy of the diary kept by the boys in 1929).
A number of earlier participants had rejoined us for this final ride to Concord. We were led by two J model Harleys (the model ridden by Jack Bowers and Frank Smith), which were ridden by Hart & George. They were followed by Graham & Sassy on the outfit and the other bike riders, the Sassy's truck driven by Wendy, the Brian 4WD & van, then May & Jono in their 4WD & finally a number of supports including Jim (he built the box for outfit), in cars.
Wonder on wonders, for probably the first time we arrived at our destination early, to be met by media and people from the AARF. After several speeches from AARF representatives & Graham we were provided with a BBQ lunch, at which John Gardner was presented with a mud cake the 21st September being his birthday.
As the accounting had not been finalised it is not possible to record here the exact amount of money collected for research, however it will be many thousands of dollars.
Finally we sadly said goodbye to many friends we made on our great adventure & went our own ways.
P.S. There will be a follow up Ball on the 22nd October at the Ettalong Bowling Club all welcome.