Page 7 - NLH Newsletter December

1 December 2021 * Destination: Blackalls Park??
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Despite forecasts of a 90% chance of 15mm of
rain, 9 riders on 8 bikes/trikes gathered at
Freeman’s Waterhole to prove the predictions

wrong. So with overcast skies, dry roads, full
tanks and empty bladders (perfect riding
conditions), we set off on what was to be a
pleasant but uneventful ride. The only thing that
was unusual about this ride was that only 4 of
the original riders made it to our destination,
fortunately by choice rather than circumstance,
however more of that later.

Our first leg was quite a short hop across Sandy

Creek Rd to Ellalong where we had a very and enjoyable morning tea break at Ling’s Cafe. One
departed at this point and the rest set off on the longer leg via Wollombi, Yarramalong and
Cooranbong to Toronto Workers Club for lunch.

The ride was picturesque with the dams full, creeks running and paddocks green from all the recent
rain. Fortunately, there were no flood issues, just roads a little more potholed than usual. Only a
couple of brief, light showers gave any credence to the forecast, but these were not nearly enough
to deter the intrepid (decrepit?) riders. Speaking of which, Dancer caused us some concern by
pulling up twice without notice. Fortunately it was only a recurring case of numb bum, so with little
sympathy the rest of us rode on.

As the ride progressed, we noticed that at each major intersection, one of the riders would turn off
with a farewell wave. By the time we reached our destination, only 2 riders were left, they being
our undaunted leader and yours truly. Two other riders appeared soon after so only 4 of the

originals stayed the course: Peter, Ken#1, Ken #2 and me. Fortunately we were joined by 3 lovely
ladies/partners to make a lunch group of 7.

One could be cynical enough to suggest that the
withdrawn offer of a free sausage sandwich lunch
at Blackalls Park contributed to the attrition rate.
Nonetheless, we enjoyed each other’s company
over a tasty lunch and then it was off home in our
various directions.

In all it was a smooth, comfortable and enjoyable
ride, again thanks to our legendary “leader of the

pack”, Ken T. We look forward to seeing you all
back on the first Wednesday rides next year.
Merry Christmas everyone.

....John B
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