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Well with the weather the way it is at the moment, a decision was made to stay clear of the Border Ranges, due to the possibility of swollen creeks, cut roads and more rain on the way. The start point was changed to the BP at Blacksoil, and relaxed to a 9am start.
We had a total of 6 cars for the trip.
Myself and Family - Series 111 Stage 1 Isuzu S/Wagon
The Ho Hars - Series 111 Basic
TimJ and Laurelle - Game
Killer and Family - Game
The Zulu Delta's - Series 11a ex-military
Easo - Series 11a ex-military S/Wagon
After a drama packed morning I made good time to the BP to be the first to arrive. Peering through the rain came the faint warm glow of a couple of pairs of series lights. Then another and another untill finally the Zulu Delta's checked in.
With all the rain about and the dam being full, we thought it would be a good idea to go around the back of Wivenhoe on the B roads to Somerset Dam where the water is being released in a spectacular show. We formed up and meandered our way to Fernvale.
Turning onto Splityard Creek Road, we travelled until we came accross Splityard Creek Dam and the upper reaches of the Wivenhoe Reservoir. It was good to see water backing back up into the creeks like it used to.
We turned right into Somerset and pulled up on the right to take in the sight of the water being released. It was then on to The Spit for Morning Tea. No Scones on this outing, but we did have a lovely cheescake and Macadamia nut slice. We couldn't have picked a better spot.
A discussion was needed as we were making this trip up as we went along, and after presenting some options, I led the group back towards Northbrook Parkway to ascend Mt Glorious. Halfway there, my artistic eye caught a photo oportunity spot, so I turned everyone around and followed some overgrown muddy wheeltracks down a slope to underneath the road bridge. I clambered up to the top with Zulu Delta's Camera and snapped away. It was then time to make our way back to the road, with some having more sliding fun than others.
We made our way to the lower reaches of Tennyson Mountain, along Northbrook Creek, where Mrs Ho Har was to relish in her 100% strike rate for landy waves. To the point where a Rangie driver was half out of his window waving like a man possessed. As we climbed up the range, some needing 1st gear, we entered a bit of mist at the top. Another stop at the lookout, but it was all in vain with the clouds blocking the veiw.
The lunch stop was at the Bikers Cafe on top of the Mountain, which we managed to find parking right out side. We couldn't have timed it better to get the parks and a table where we could amuse ourselves at the onlookers going over our trucks while we ate our fantastic lunch.
After the break, it was time to head on for the last leg towards Mt Nebo. We had come through some very heavy rain before lunch, and where now heading out into some thick fog. All in all it added to the atmosphere of yesteryear, driving our old friends on tight twisty mountain roads, just like thay were designed to do. Looking in the rear view to see those yellowy lights and world famous profile just added the icing to the cake.
We dropped into the back of the Gap, and wanted to go around the back of Mt Cootha but the road was signed as closed, so as soon as an opportunity presented itself we pulled in to debrief and say our goodbyes.
Our family had a very good time, with excellent company and although we didn't get too much dirt under the tyres, it was still agreat day out. I will reschedule the Border Ranges trip for a later date, and hopefully we will have some more club members with leafers ready to join us.
Thank-you all
See you next time.
CC
Who can spot the rabbit?
. I forgot the camera so no photos. Very nice burger for lunch too. The Game may not be the fastest car I have but it is fun to drive around despite that.
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