Illawarra Run to Tarago

21 July 2019 / Story: Jan Gibson. Photos: Anda Clayton; William Short, Bryan Shedden

Photos of the day are here and here

Fifty years after mankind kicked the moon the MX-5ers of the Illawarra set off on a long trip ....  to Tarago Pub. It started at Hayward's Bay on a glorious winter's morning, clear blue sky and a slight chill in the air. With roofs down, windows up and heaters on we headed south for a quick run up Jamberoo Mountain ... that was the plan ... yep, a Sunday driver out on a Saturday slowed us down a little but with the beautiful scenery and the sound of the wildlife we didn't mind too much. At the top of the pass we turned left and meandered through Robertson before turning onto Pearson's Lane and continued through the beautiful countryside headed for Bundanoon, via Fitzroy Falls and the quaint little village of Exeter, for our morning tea. Once we found a parking spot we spread ourselves out around the many cafes to enjoy a freshly brewed coffee and cakes.

Thirty minutes later we regrouped to continue our journey through Wingello and Tallong before a short stint on the Hume highway. Taking the Bungonia exit we turned at the second exit on the roundabout onto Mountain Ash Road towards Windellama. Cruising in the fresh country air with the sun on your back what better way to spend a Saturday. Turning onto Sandy Point Road we encountered some “roadworks”. Wouldn’t be a country run without a little bit of dirt road. Final turn onto Cullalla Road for the last 17 km to our destination “The Loaded Dog”. We parked our cars and 31 hungry and thirsty travellers were ready for a great pub meal. The tables in the enclosed sun filled veranda were quickly filled by half the group while the rest enjoyed sitting near the open fire. There were smiling faces all round and a great deal of chatter as we devoured our delicious meals.

All too soon it was time to head home. Several cars decided to return via Windellama, Oallen Ford, Nerriga and Nowra while others headed north to Goulburn and then onto the Hume. Thank you Bryan Shedden for organising another great day also thank you to the members from Sydney and South Coast Chapters who joined us ... as always a great day with members of the MX-5 Club of NSW.