Mt Barney NP FAT50 Memorial run.

[zulu Delta 534]

So numbers were down but that did not dampen the spirits of those who did attend. As it turned out, although we dropped one in that Harry was "out of country" at the time and made his apologies accordingly, his space was filled by Rose with her friend Sharon.
All met up at Beaudesert Maccas (That is five times I have been to a Macca's now) and we all set off pretty close to on time.
Carolyn took us on a rather circuitous and scenic route bringing us out at Rathdaowney, then after a short stop we headed off to the Upper Portals. The road up was in good condition, if a little dusty despite one or two fast evaporating pools of lingering water from a recent fall) and we all made it uneventfully. From this vantage point a good view can be enjoyed of Lake Maroon and a near 360 degree panorama of the surrounding countryside. The view from this area is quite spectacular although today was marred slightly by smoke haze that was hanging around from various "burn-offs in the vicinity.
The hills to the South of us were spotted with brilliant spots of red from the Illawarra Flame trees spotted amongst the surrounding canopy.


whilst the view to the north western aspect overlooked Lake Maroon.


From here we ventured back down the hill passing by a roadside "garage sale" on the way.
Temptations such as this should not be allowed on the sides of roads I believe, but then again, Patsy has other views, and, as it happens Patsy only spent 50c there whereas I spent $30 so I guess I shouldn't say too much.


We then backtracked to the Yellow Pinch NP picnic area where we found some shade, set up our chairs and duly ate our fill. Foodstuffs ranged from sandwiches to rather elaborate salads to a small BBQ of bangers and kebabs, all accompanied by wine, beer, soft drinks and or cordial (in no special order).
Phillipe's young ones couldn't resist the temptation of the lovely cool water and had a great time with Mum and Dad whilst the rest of simply watched.




After checking out the cat fish nest...


and simply sitting around in the shade chatting....


most of the group packed up and set off on their own ways home or to other appointments.
A good day was had by all I am sure, and it was especially satisfying for Patsy and myself as it was our first outing in Sweetpea of any significance (mileage wise) as we travelled around 168 MILES from home to home and nothing fell off or blew up. Also the first trip of any significance with the hard top roof fitted and, since we have lined it with a felt like "external carpet" the noise level was no greater than inside Daisy the 2A which is fitted with a canvas roof.
I did find a few spots where hot air from around the transmission is leaking/blasting in around the back of my legs but that will be resolved very very soon believe me. Should be good in winter though!.
A couple of other little niggles but nothing that drastic. All in all a successful day.
I even engaged low range once or twice up the hill as I found Low 3 and 4 and High 2,3 and 4 to be nicely spaced, and easier to select on the move than trying to find high first.

Thanks to the organisers and to all who attended. I was pleased to see that Rose's D2 and DJHampson's D3 could handle the blistering pace of the Series 1.
Regards
Glen

[The ho har's]

It was a great and enjoyable day regardless of the heat.

Yes it was a slow drive, but that way you can spot the defenders/series in the farmers sheds on the way Yes I spoted 1

Thanks to, DJH, Rose, ZD534, Stickman for coming

and the memorial still has the tree that was planted 2 years ago there and the plaques for Geoff and his son.

Mrs hh

[stikman]

Thanks All,

Was a nice relaxing afternoon and the kids really enjoyed themselves. Shoulders are still recovering from a little too much sun but that will teach me for not taking my own advice (who needs sunscreen anyway, not like it was a hot day )

The plaque really hit home why we made the trip, what we were there to remember, and just how precious life is. Thanks to the club and its members for being so respectful of one of our GCLRO 'family', it is said a lot but I do feel we have a truly wonderful club and it is times like these that reinforce that.

In memory of a great man that is missed by his friends and family. RIP mate.



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[Presto]

Thanks for your reports guys!

A huge thanks to Mrs HH for leading the trip!
...I didn't get to wish you Merry Christmas and thank you last night, sorry about that!!