AB

Friday 22^nd January, 2010.  

With no more sleeps to be had before commencing the much awaited ride/trip to Victoria/NSW/Victoria for the MMAA AGM, an intrepid group of riders and pillions met at the Brighton BP at 1230pm, to commence the first leg of the trip that being to Devonport to catch/board the Spirit of Tasmania II, for the overnight trip to Melbourne.

Those that represented the Tasmanian Chapter on this significant occasion where;

Wor Bro Rick GONINON - President

Wor Bro Craig (Deano) DEANE – Secretary

Wor Bro Tony Bruce-MULLINS – Treasurer, accompanied by Rosemary

Wor Bro Paul GONINON

Wor Bro Alan (AB) BURTON

Bro Peter (Shakas) SHACKLADY accompanied by Kelly

With Tony, Rosemary & AB arriving at Deano's place at 1200hrs, it was evident that we had all packed ‘light’ for the trip, with one one bag of varying sizes each, being strapped to the well oiled and recently serviced machines.

Upon arrival at Brighton, the same had been done by Rick, Paul, Shakas & Kelly.

Re-fuelled and raring to go, Rick & Deano attached the earphones of their MP3 Players for the trip to our next re-fuelling stop, being Perth.

Road Captain: Tony B-M

Sweeper:         Rick G

Arriving at Perth and having filled the tanks, lunch & drinks where had.  Nachos where consumed by one traveller, AB, with another wishing he had.  Do you like Nachos Rick?????

It was here that the theme song for the week was hatched by Rick who proudly boasted that AB, having voiced his dislike for this this type of music and of this song in particular, would be singing same by the end of the of the trip.

Road Song:     Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire by Johnny CASH.

Perth – Devonport:  

Nothing significant to report other than ride formations were practised (as they where from Brighton – Perth) in readiness for joining and riding with our Victorian Counterparts.

Arriving at Devonport at 5pm, re-fuelled  and with no Spirit (boat) to be seen it was a good chance to ‘bond’ for the week ahead with numerous stories and of course the usual banter reserved amongst friends and Freemasons.

We were all in high spirits and no one was safe from being subjected to and reminded of, varying forms of humour/pranks etc:

The boat finally arrived around 7pm (having done a daytime sailing) at which time the gates were opened and with the Tasmanian Chapter being the first to arrive and thus, first in the queue, showed our booking tickets, licences, etc: in order to receive our boarding passes.

With Tony & Rosemary having their own cabin as with Shakas & Kelly, the four (4) musketeers shared a cabin (it was going to be a long night!!!!)

Bags dumped in the relevant cabins, we met at the middle bar for light refreshments, with no thought of food at this time.  Meeting a few fellow motorcyclists (bikers gives the impression of hairy arsed thugs!!!)  Probably true for a couple of our lot – no Rick, NOT Rosemary & Kelly!!!! Sorry about that ladies J, the humour and good spirit continued

With numerous & varying forms of fluids taken, food became important having not eaten since our stop at Perth. Shakas & Kelly left to book tables for us all, arriving not long after with news that the Buffett had closed and that the restaurant was closing in five (5) minutes!!!!

Just making it in time and with food intake having satisfied most, the bill arrived.  It must have been a good bottle of wine that Shakas ordered as even though we confirmed the price, he was ‘shocked’ all the same.  He was charged well in excess of $100 for a $30 bottle (as per the price list)  He did bring it to the attention of the steward, who rectified the mistake.  It wasn’t that very nice police officer that you gave a donation to last November? (in a different uniform)

Back to the bar for a few nightcaps, before turning in around midnight.

Saturday 23^rd January, 2010. 

Having docked in Melbourne at 7am (an hour late) and being the first off the boat, we were met by six (6) riders of the MMAA Victorian Chapter (who had arrived at the scheduled time of 6am) who were to be our escort to Young, NSW.

With introductions made and being an overcast day in the City of Melbourne, no time was wasted in departing the Dockside to escape the onset of a shower (which we did.)

We were informed that being a long weekend, that it was ‘Double Points Days’ for all traffic infringement fines, and to be careful of and comply with all such rules etc:

Road Captain, Chris PACKHAM and Sweeper, Grant BATES were made known to all of us, being members of the Victorian Chapter.

Melbourne - Glenrowan       A BP Service Centre was our first stop to re-fuel and for breakfast, which consisted of coffee and a Subway Bacon & Egg Roll for some and a Macca’s for others.

It was here that we were introduced to the the National Secretary, Dorothy and her husband Greg (himself a Mason and a member of the MMAA) who chose to travel in the comfort of their vehicle acting as Road Support.  The fact that the weather was forecast to reach the high 30’s, had nothing to do with it.  Yeah right!!!! J

Glenrowan – Holbrook         The weather had well and truly hit the top end of the 30’s at which time, we were all ready for liquid replenishment, with water and cordial being hastily drank.  Lunch ordered and consumed (and very nice meals they were too – even Deano’s Ceaser Salad …….with chips and a cream bun) we again mounted up for the next phase of the trip.

Holbrook – Gundagai.          This was , without doubt, the hardest part of the trip as the temperature reached 40 degrees during this stretch.  Dismounting & re-fuelled, we raced into yet another BP Service Station for bottles of iced water.  Refreshed internally, a number of riders ‘showered’ with iced water in an effort to cool down.

Gundagai – Young.               Again, having endured high temperatures, we arrived safely at our destination (5pm) being Young Caravan & Tourist Park.  Checked in, we all adjourned to the air conditioned comfort of our respective Cabins.  Showered and refreshed, introductions were yet again made to those Members who had already arrived from NSW & Queensland.  This done, it was off to the nearest bottle shop (a very important task) to purchase some social refreshment.  Deano & AB moved their bikes from the front of their Cabin, and set up camp for a few ‘light ales and stories’ being joined by all present.

Not missing an opportunity, Terry WEBSTER, Merchandise Officer promptly brought forth various MMAA Merchandise Items for sale, being snapped up the Tassie Chapter Members in particular.

It was during this time that Roger COATES, aka Lizard, suggested that he organise a local courtesy bus to take us into Town and the local RSL for Dinner.  With no Courtesy Bus in the Town, taxis were ordered for the short trip.  On arrival and signing in as guests, the RSL was the local place to be.  With tables organised (on ya! Deano) and with drinks in hand, off to the meals area to order Dinner.  A very good choice of meals were on display, making selection difficult.  The meals on arrival were well presented and plentiful, and very enjoyable.  It was very disappointing however, that some of our group waited over two (2) hours for their meals to arrive, for which sincere apologies were offered by manangement.

Shakas, photographer to the stars, having taken photos of everyone and everything at the RSL, left his camera behind when leaving for camp.  Had this fallen into the wrong hands, the Sunday Tabloids could have had a field day!!!!!! (Shakas did manage to retrieve it the next day, with no harm done to any of those photographed – not that we know of??)

Are we there yet Rick?????

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire L

Sunday 24^th January, 2010.

Young – Boorowa - Young

With both Deano & AB awake early, and with Deano taking to the swamp first (ablutions/shower etc: for those not up to speed) he duly put the kettle on and headed out to find some breakfast, whilst yours truly battled through the various odours (au de toilet has a different meaning now I can tell you – hang on a minute, maybe the French meant ‘oh! the toilet’ as in the not too good aroma left by the previous occupant and not the nicely perfumed aroma as per current sales etc:  You definitely need to lay off the onions Deano………phew!!!!)

Breakfast arrived and a guest in tow, Tony B-M, egg & bacon rolls (Subway) were consumed and washed down with coffee’s.

Tony brought to our attention that he and Rosemary were awoken very early and kept awake most of the night, after having the sensation of someone/thing lightly caressing their bodies.  Not knowing were this heading and with Deano & I knowing that both Tony & Rosemary shared a cabin with Shakas & Kelly, imaginations were starting to run wild.  With further conversation and explanations given, it turned out that it wasn’t what Deano & I and the rest of you dirty minded readers thought at all!!!!  It was ANTS!!! or at least that was what we were told by Tony.  As Rosemary surfaced from her evening slumber, further investigation was carried out.  It was, as Tony said, ANTS!! with the cabin of Tony, Rosemary, Shakas & Kelly being overrun by the little blighters!!!!  Off to the park manager to complain, he duly arrived (non too happy) with a can Mortein and promptly sprayed everywhere muttering that, and this is true, “that should keep you whingers happy”.  A similar occurrence happened when the air con broke down in the cabin of Deano & yours truly.  This bloke needs to get a life and a new job!!!

A ride was organised to Boorowa  It is here, that a Motorcar and Motorbike Museum (can’t recall seeing any Bikes though???) is located, so this was duly voted for as our nominated ride.  With a phone call made to see if it was open, which it wasn’t, the owner offered to open up the Museum just for us (just as well the call was made)

The ride itself was of about an hours duration each way, so not that far in comparison the day before.  With our $5 admission paid, we were met by the owner, who gave us a guided tour of the place, with some very interesting facts and cars on display.  All present commented on just how clean and tidy the workshop was, spotless (the owner himself works on all the vehicles keeping them in tip top condition)

Visit over, it was off to the local township and pub for lunch, consisting of a very reasonably priced Fishermans Basket, $10, which was had by all (except Deano who, under orders from his better half given his recent health scare, had salad………..with his Fishermans Basket and extra chips and SALT!!!!)  It was healthy salt though Charmane, or at least that’s what Craig told us all.

Lunch consumed, it was off back to camp with a very good ride being had throughout the day, on some good road with BENDS!!!!!! (not like the ride up to Young on the Hume Highway – how straight is straight?)

Whilst most of us cooled off with a dip in the pool (40 degree day) Rosemary ventured across the road to the local Aldi Store, purchasing nibbles and various dips, for afternoon tea, at which all were welcome on the patio of Rick & Paul’s cabin.  Again, good conversation was had by all, forming friendships for the future.

Our evening meal consisted of a BBQ on camp, being generously provided by the MMAA inclusive of liquid refreshments, and was well attended by all.

Thanks to the MMAA and to Trevor & Wendy CAPARARO and our very own Rosemary, for their cooking of the BBQ.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire L

Monday 25^th January, 2010

Young, AGM  - Chinese Gardens

With the mount up call promptly given at at 0940hrs (depart time for the AGM being 0945hrs) all were ready to leave at the said time.

Our Road Captain for the very short 2 minute ride to the Young Masonic Lodge Rooms, was non-other than our National President himself (no names mentioned) who, just like yours truly, has a problem with missing turnoffs!!!!  With calls of Terry, Terry, where the ^#@* are you Terry (Terry WEBSTER) we eventually found our way to our destination, in plenty of time for the scheduled 1000hrs AGM. Mr President, you have my full understanding and support in leading a bunch of riders under such circumstances J

After a quick tour of the Lodge Room, a very compact and well furnished Room it was too, the meeting was duly opened our President, Michael LAMPADARIOS.

Being formally welcomed by the National President as the newest Chapter, various reports were given as per normal meeting protocols, including a report from/by our President, Rick G.

Congratulations to Tony B-M was elected as National Communications Officer.

As the newest formed Chapter, Tasmania was offered the opportunity to host the 2011 AGM of which was respectfully declined.  This was due to the fact that under the Constitution, the AGM has to be held in central location giving easy access to all States.  As such, it was decided that the Victorian Chapter will host the 2011 AGM.  Date/Venue wll be advised in due course.

However, it was voted on by those present, that the Tasmanian Chapter would host a ride in Tasmania during the week of Easter, 2011.  Again, all details once confirmed, will be made available to all.  A total of 19 interstate members indicated that they are interested and will be attending at this stage.

Put this event/Easter Week 2011, in your diaries.

During the course of the said reports, it was very pleasing to note that the Tasmanian Chapter is very well represented with 20 Members/Affiliates and rates high in comparison with other States/Chapters.

At the close of the meeting, a raffle was conducted by the Central Coast Chapter for which two bottles of Black Douglas were raffled.  Good ole Tassie and yours truly, won a bottle of the Scottish Tonic Water, which was later tasted by the Brother Brothers GONINON (here come the Men in Black – where have I heard that before????)

Morning tea and photo’s taken, it was back to base to organise the rest of the day.

After the previous days ride and with laundry to be done, not much was planned for the rest of the day.

The Tassie Chapter, did a ‘reccy’ of the township of Young on their bikes, before parking same and walking a couple of blocks looking at the various architectural buildings of times past. Rick and Paul G along with Deano, purchased an Aussie Flag each for their bikes, to commemorate Australia day.

That done, off to a local pub for lunch (more food!!!)  Yet again, good quality and very tasty meals were had although AB, not feeling hungry at this time, satisfied himself with a can of coke and a read of the newspaper although he did partake and help Rick finish a bowl of wedges.  He also sampled Deano’s cajun chicken salad which towards the end of finishing same, brought Deano out in a hot flush!!!

After finishing lunch and with the day still young (no pun intended) it was decided to venture the short journey (5 minute ride) to the Chinese Gardens.

A quick stroll around in searing heat, it was back to camp where Rick and yours truly took a cooling dip in the pool, whilst Rosemary and Deano collected their dirty clothing and headed for the local laundry.  I’m not sure what the others members of the Tassie Chapter did at this time……….what did they do?????

With the evening meal being discussed as in where to go, it was brought to everyones attention that there was still some snags left over over from the previous nights BBQ.  Rick and Paul G, Deano & I decided that we would fire up the barbie for snags and bread/sauce, whilst Shakas, Kelly, Tony & Rosemary deciding to yet again, venture to the local RSL for their evening meal.  The latter was the choice of most of all present, as only the four (4) mentioned from Tassie, had the bbq.

Evening meals had, all returned for an evening of light refreshment and companionship, with members mingling with different groups on different patio’s on this our last night together.

As the evening drew late, individuals said goodnight to pack their bags etc: with some having an early start the next morning @ 0600hrs.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire L grr!!!!!!!

Tuesday 26^th January, 2010.

Young – Cowra - Canberra.

Again, awaking early it was time to say farewell to those leaving early.  With farewells given, it was time for the Tassie Chapter to prepare to leave.

Having had a drink in a local café the previous day, the owners had very kindly offered to open their doors at 0730hrs (normally not till 0830hrs) so that we could have a decent breakfast before setting off for the day.  Having previously indicating our choice of breakfast the day before, the ‘cooks’ started to prepare our brekkies at 7am.  Whilst we mentioned breakfast to all at Camp, only Lizard joined us.  On Ya! Lizard!!!

Breakfast consumed and farewells to Lizard etc: headed off into the distance and our next stop, Cowra.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire grrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!

It was decided (at the suggestion of Tony B-M) over the weekend that we should detour to Cowra some 40 minutes away, to take a look at and a stroll through, the Japanese Gardens on our way to Canberra.

Again, another scorcher with the temp in the high 30’s upon arrival.  A stroll around the magnificent gardens was followed by a visit, as usual, to the gift shop.  Purchases were made by most of the group, with some choosing to mail their gifts home for the outrageous price of $2!!!!  Yep, $2 postage for a package from Young to Tasmania which, given the content and size of same, was unbelievable.  It didn’t cost much more for Kelly to send her purchase home which was a bit bulkier.

A visit to the café was had before mounting again for our next refuelling stop at Yass.

Refuelled, it was off to our next destination being Canberra where we arrived mid afternoon. Checked in, Tony, Rosemary, Paul & AB chose to get a cab and visit the War Memorial, whilst Craig decided to have a ‘nap’, with Rick having arranged to meet a friend on site at the bar.

Having ordered a cab and with non arriving after the said 10 minutes, another call was made by Paul at which, the operator said non will be available for at least another half hour.  Being 3-30pm now and with the Memorial closing at 5pm, it was off the bar for amber refreshments and games of pool.

Our evening meal was also ate here which, after meals previous, wasn’t up to the same standard.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire grrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!

Wednesday 27^th January, 2010.

Canberra – Orbost

Leaving Canberra at 8am (our normal departure time to date) we hit the Monaro Highway for the ride South, stopping at the ??????? Road House to refuel the bikes and ourselves with cooling drinks.

From hereon in, we encountered some very good road/riding conditions, with plenty of bends and magnificent scenery, as we wound our way through the State Forest.  In addition, the various smells of the Forest was a refreshing and cool change to the hot dry wind we had whilst riding throughout the trip to this point.

Yet again after checking in, it was onto the bikes and a tour of the township.  This done, it was a stop at a local café for afternoon tea.

Shakas informed the group that he had picked up a nail in the rear tyre of his bike, with a slow puncture being the end result.  Off to the local Beaurepairs in the Town, in the hope of repair.  Being late in the afternoon, Shakas was told to come back in the morning at 8am, when it would be fixed properly as the patches that were tried, would not hold.

With Shakas and Kelly having taken off further afield earlier in the afternoon, a walking tour was undertaken, stopping at and looking in various shops.

Shakas & Kelly returned some time later saying that they had been to ?????? where there was a paddle steamer, and some boats etc: on the infamous Snowy River.

With that, we all took off for an enjoyable ride/time stopping at various places along the mighty Snowy River.

Low on fuel, we headed back to the Township to refuel when, on the very outskirts of Orbost and within a couple of blocs of the servo, AB felt his bike splutter.  Switching to reserve, yours truly managed a further hundred yards before the dreaded ‘no fuel’ stopped him dead.  Ironically, it was in the very street that Orbost Masonic Lodge Rooms were to be found.

After checking the tank, and with what was thought to be enough fuel to start and ride to the servo, the fate of AB was already sealed.  No such luck after several attempts, even though the bike started a couple of times.  Turning the fuel off completely, Rick G gave yours truly a ride to the servo around the corner at which time, and with Tony B-M (not wanting to be caught short too) filling up his Harley, AB scrounged a container from the attendant which, filled, rode back with Rick and duly poured into the tank of his bike.  Starting first time, it was off to the servo, filling the tank to the brim.  Knowing that normally a tank would last approximately 330klms, given that we rode hard I had ‘ran dry’ after 285klms.

Showered an changed, it was off to a local pub for dinner after being recommended by our host (Orbost Motor Lodge) who assured us that Chinese tucker was on the menu.

With an array of Chinese food arriving at our table, all was devoured with a passion being enjoyed by all, which were up to the usual high standard as per previous meals.  With Rick & Deano showing their skills with chopsticks (at least they thought they were) AB, sitting next to Rosemary, consumed the remains of her chicken something or other, which had been too much of a serving.

Evening meal over, travellers were purchased of which were drank back at the hotel on the veranda.  It was during this time, that a local tradesman pulled in for the night and helping himself to a cold tinny from the esky in the back of his ute, came over for a chat.  Little did he know that he had locked his keys in his Land Crusier, in his haste for a cold one after a hard days work.  It took two (2) of our finest and a RACV Recovery Vehicle Driver (who was also staying the night) over 40 minutes to ‘break into’ the said vehicle and retrieve the keys.  Nice one boys.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire grrrrrrrrrrr!!!!!!

Thursday 28^th January, 2010.

Orbost – Lakes Entrance – Bairnsdale – Sale - Wonthaggi

With Shakas having an appointment at Beaurepairs at 8am, the rest of the group ventured in the Township for breakfast.

Over an hour later, Shakas returned with the bad news that the tyre couldn’t be repaired and that no new tyre was available within distance of Orbost.  He was told that one may be available at our next stop, being Lakes Entrance.

With the tyre patched (in a fashion) and told to ride carefully, stopping regularly to put air into same, we set off for Lakes Entrance.

Again, great riding conditions and roads although we did encounter flying locusts (as we did on the ride down from Canberra, which made an awful mess after splattering against our helmet visors and clothing!!!!)

Reaching Lakes Entrance, Shakas duly turned into the local tyre repair depot at which he received more bad news!!  The tyre bloke at Orbost, having taken off the back wheel and brakes but everything back together in reverse hence, Shakas had no back brake completely destroying same on the trip here.  What was that tyre blokes name in Orbost……….Humpty Dumbty????

With new brakes and a tyre ordered for when Shakas arrived back home, he decided that he would head straight for Melbourne and not partake in the rest of the trip for safety reasons.  What could we say/do?  Regular contact was made with Shakas & Kelly by Rick, ensuring that they were travelling OK given the circumstances.

Leaving Shakas & Kelly at Lakes Entrance, the rest of the group headed for Bairnsdale, where  lunch was had at a local bakery.

After a quick trip to the mens room, it was off again this time heading for Wonthaggi.

Arriving in Wonthaggi late afternoon after another great ride on some great road, it was off for a walk around the Township, and look for a place for dinner.

Entering the oldest hotel establishment, cold drinks were the order of the day although after a round, it was deceided to move on as the tucker didn’t look that good.

We finally found the Wonthaggi Working Mens Club – a top venue, being very clean, friendly staff and great meals.

It was here that Deano & AB tried to educate the members of our little group, with Deano ordering a rather nice bottle of wine to have with dinner and AB, a very nice dessert wine.  With the exception of Tony B-M who has a similar palate to Deano & I the rest, with the exception Rosemary, being Rick & Paul, stuck with the usual VB (VB being Very Boring)

Travellers in hand, it was back to the hotel verandah for a nightcap at which time, AB invited the Motel Manager over to join us.  We were also joined by an employer of the new power scheme and whilst not enjoying an amber fluid with us, stayed a little while before turning in.  At approximately 1030pm and at the hint from the Motel Manager, we duly turned in for the night ourselves.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire grrrrrr!!!!!  

Friday 29^th January, 2010.

Wonthaggi – Phillip Island – Melbourne

With breaky had at another local bakery, Rick made himself known to the local Stihl agent with a view of borrowing a few spanners to tighten the chain on AB’s bike.  After having had the bike serviced at a reputable dealership in Hobart prior to the trip, another piece of shoddy workmanship was evident.  Chain tightened, and thanks extended to the local Stihl Owner, it was off for Melbourne.

Being ably led by our Road Captain, Rick G, he made an executive decision and detoured to Phillip Island, heading straight for the Race Track.  After looking through the shop, it was Track Side to watch/listen to a few who were racing around the famous track, doing laps at high speeds.  Settle Rick, settle J

Another good ride was had to Phillip Island.

Satisified with watching rather riding around the track, it was time for this group of tourers to gather up some speed and head North for Melbourne stopping along the South Gippsland Highway at Lynbrook, to look through a warehouse of motorbike accessories – helmets, jeans, everything you could think off.  It was here that Tony B-M found his new helmet after looking at same in Hobart which, had he have bought it back home, would have paid over double the price.

Shopping done, it was off again through Dandenong, Chadstone and all places before and after, until reaching our destination of Elizabeth St and the bike shops.

That done, lunch was had around the corner where Tony & Rosemary had been waiting whilst the rest of us drooled in the bike shops.

Deano, who always get his coffee beans, cold meats etc: from the Vic Markets, said he was off to purchase same with yours truly in tow.  Prior to leaving, AB said that if he going to do any of them #!*^% right hand/left hand/hook turn things, he can go alone.

No prizes for guessing what Deano did.  With his purchases neatly packed in his bag, we set off from the Markets to re-group with the rest at the café at which time, Deano said “whatever you do, follow me and do exactly as I do” and shot off down Elizabeth St.  A hook turn later, we met the group who themselves, reminded me of my comments before leaving.

With Deano leaing the way out of the City (he led us in also) it was around the block, left turn, right turn, where is he taking us????  At one set of lights with us all grouped ready to take off on green for a right hand turn, we both started off only for Deano to stop dead after deciding that there wasn’t enough time for us all to get through safely, so with a squeal of brakes from Paul and I, and with Rick and Tony braking hard, we came to a halt a full bikes length past the lights.  New Road Captain please and a change of undies!!!! J

It was here and around the next corner that an unknown rider was blinded by the sun and with two (2) sets of lights within 50yrds of each and both being on red, sailed straight through the first lot.  No through traffic – phew!!!!  What is going on here in the big smoke!!!!!!!

Re-grouping along the waterfront not far from the Ferry Terminal, Deano & yours truly decided to head on through St Kilda and down the Mornington Penninsula to check on AB’s daughters place who, being at work and going straight to the airport to catch a flight home for Tassie for the weekend, would not be there until late Sunday night.

Returning to the Ferry Terminal at 5pm and meeting the others (Shakas & Kelly had arrived at this time) we were again first in the queue.  Standing in the blazing sun was becoming uncomfortable, so Shakas & Kelly headed for some light refreshment whilst Tony, Rosemary, Deano and AB headed for dinner being, as it turned out, fish & chips.

The Spirit came into view after another day sailing when, after all on board disembarked and with the evening passengers waiting patiently for well over an hour to board, we finally ‘hit the decks’.

As with the trip over and with bags dumped in our respective cabins, we met at the same bar for a few cold refreshments, being enjoyed by all.  Rick and Paul, having had no dinner, chose to have pies/sausage rolls from the bar whilst Shakas & Kelly chose to be a bit more upmarket and had dinner in the restaurant.  No mention of over priced wine this time Shakas!!

After a long week, I think we all turned in around 11pm and settled into a peaceful slumber (not for some who had to put up with snoring and having the big feet of a cabin mate under you nose all night) being gently rocked on the high seas all the way home, on board the good ship SPOT II.

Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire grrrrrr!!!!! L

Saturday 30^th January, 2010.

Devonport – Prospect – Perth - Home

With Tony having mentioned a day or so before that he thought his front brake disk was warped, it was decided to call into Richardson’s Harley Davidson at Prospect on the way down South, and have them check it out.

Disembarking first of SPOT II and with Tony B-M leading the way with Rick bringing up the rear, it was off at a good pace down the Bass Highway on arguably, one of the best pieces of road in Tassie.

Arriving at Richardson’s just as they opened and having had a look around the showroom, breakfast was the order of the day.

With brekky ordered at the café within Richardsons, the owner kindly put on some music with video on the big screen.  You are not going to believe this and to very obvious delight of Rick who, with a grin from ear to ear, was both highly amused and satisifed that non other than Johnny CASH appeared on the big screen singing…..you guessed it………Burn Burn Burn, My Hearts on Fire!!!!!!!!!!

After a week of Rick singing it and the week closing with Johnny himself, I could not help but feel that the choice as made by Rick for the road song, was an omen in itself.  As for being the Tasmanian Chapter Theme/Road Song, I’ll leave that for others to decide……….^*#! Burn Burn Burn!!!!!! J

Brekkie consumed it was off again with a scheduled stop at the Perth Road House to re-fuel.  This done, it was agreed to carry on through Campbell Town and head straight for home, although we did have a scheduled stop at the Richmond/Colebrook turnoff, just South of Oatlands to bade farewell to each other.

Farewells given and received, Tony, Rosemary, Deano and AB took the Richmond/Colebrook Road with Rick, Paul, Shakas & Kelly continuing on South down the Midlands Highway for our respective homes.

Approximate Ride Mileage Total:

Hobart – Mainland – Hobart   2,900klms (inclusive of side trips)

Ride/Trip Verdict:    

A fantastic week was had by all in glorious sunny weather every day (average temp around 35 degrees).

It was invaluable experience for the Tasmanian Chapter Members, to join with our counterparts from the Mainland and ride in group formation (with the exception of Tony & Rosemary who have done this many times over many years with the HOG) something we have not done here in Tassie.  We all learnt a great deal from same and more so, riding as a sole group of Tasmanian Chapter Members, on our return trip home after leaving Young, NSW.

I think I can say that we are all looking forward to this time next year, when the MMAA Victorian Chapter will be hosting the AGM (time and venue TBA)

I sincerely hope that again, we can be well represented at the MMAA AGM of 2011.

Ride safe, stay safe……..

AB