Page 39 - RidingOn156 SPRING 2022

Enjoying Volunteering and
Helping UCARF

On Saturday 20th March, 18 Ulysseans volunteered to
assist in running the Iron Man 70.3 Event in Melbourne.
Brian Lacey of Melbourne Branch co-ordinated the
volunteers and liaised with Ron ‘Gentle’ Howell of
Geelong, who has been arranging these things for years.
I believe we had members from Geelong, Macedon
Ranges, Melbourne, Southern Cross Tourers and
Westgate Wanderers Branches all involved.
It was a bit harsh, all us retirees having to arise at
‘sparrow fart’ and we actually assembled down by the
bay in the dark!
Jests aside, I found it a very rewarding experience with
the added benefit that over $2300 was donated to UCARF
(Ulysses Club Arthritis Research Foundation) by the event
organisers in appreciation of our volunteering. Beyond
that support for UCARF, it is just simply fun to do.
I provided transport for a “bike mechanic” today and
it was surprising how many punctures we attended to.
Other riders transported technical officers (race officials
or scrutineers) photographers and escorts for the If doing
lead competitors in various categories. Once the final this sort of thing piques your interest at all, I have
competitors alighted from their bikes, my duties were no doubt it will happen again so keep your eye out. I
done for the day. suspect another event is coming up in November. You
need to be confident carrying a pillion relatively slowly
The cycle route between Port Melbourne and Moorabbin and be on a relatively comfortable, quiet and insured
was directly beside Port Phillip Bay which was at its bike. It is enjoyable and fulfilling if interested.
beautiful best and provided a lovely backdrop for the
racing. Brian and “Gentle” – Thanks for organising, I really
enjoyed the experience.
John Cook #5048. DM51.

Susie Barrett
Susie Barrett #66769 has been an exemplary Welfare Officer for 9 years
and has executed that role with compassion, empathy, energy and ongoing
and heartfelt commitment to the health and well-being of Central Highlands
Branch members. She has gone above and beyond in this role and has
brought support, encouragement, care and concern to many of their
members specifically and all their members generally.
Susie’s service has been above and beyond normal expectations of a Branch
Welfare Officer.
She has fostered an effective network of reporting, to ensure
communication and timely notification of needs for support. She ensures
the “jungle drums” work effectively and that the needs of individuals are
reported to the committee.
As editor of Riding On, I get to read a lot of these Award nominations.
This particular nomination submission for Susie, endorsed by the Branch
President, Graeme Best #62919.... Secretary, Charlie Maguire #30275 and
Treasurer, Paul Nankervis #51677, displayed something a lot more than the
average wording that I normally see. I’ve only included a ‘gist’ of the total
nomination text, but, I’d like to say that there was a sincere and poignant
message between the lines I viewed. Susie is greatly treasured and even
loved by the members of her Branch and she in turn no doubt has those
emotions returned to her.

I congratulate Susie on receiving her well deserved award. Ian Parks.

RIDING ON 39