Five Hills 2022

27 January 2022 / Words by Norm Barker. Photos by Norm & Ros Barker, Rod & Maryanne Nicholas

16 January 2022

This was the first run for 2022, our annual Five Hills Run, on a very warm day. After many cancelations of runs through the last year and some members reticent about going out until they see where the latest variant of the virus is going, there were 13 MX 5s lined up in front of the Russell offices. The bright sunlight made them sparkle as we prepared to for a cruise around Canberra’s Lake Burley Griffin, going up and down five of the hills.

After a brief chat between members who hadn’t seen one another for a while, Norm gave the briefing. The group headed to the first hill, Mt Pleasant which is in the grounds of Duntroon/ADFA and the road was looking a little overgrown on the sides due to the unusual amount of spring and summer rain.

Next was up Mt Ainslie, which involved a steep climb on a winding road. A short stop was made to take in the view and chat with visitors who were admiring the cars.

After descending Mt Ainslie, the convoy drove past the Australian War Memorial and down Anzac Parade. At the bottom of Anzac Parade, the group turned right and followed the lake along to Black Mountain. This is another steep and winding road and at the top we circled the car park. There is some discussion about the fate of the tower on the top of this mountain and it is currently closed indefinitely, but hopefully it will be restored.

At the bottom of Black Mountain, we headed west to the National Arboretum and up to the top of Dairy Farmers Hill. This has become a popular spot and so were not able to make a stop, as there were no car parks available. However, the car in front of our leader was taking in the view and not looking in the mirror so we had a first gear descent from the top of this hill.

Leaving the National Arboretum, we followed the route past the Canberra Zoo and across the top of Scrivener Dam, through Curtin and Deakin and up Red Hill. At the top the convoy formed up in the car park for some photos.

Once all the photos had been taken, we proceeded to Lennox Gardens for a picnic. People spread out on the lawns and chatted. Everyone had an enjoyable drive and time together over the picnic.

Words & photo by Norm & Ros Barker, with additional phots by Rod & Maryanne Nicholas.

There are heaps more photos by Lili Chi on our Facebook page.  Have a squiz if you haven't already!