Jugiong Jaunt

03 July 2017 / Words: Ian Bottcher, Photos: Peter Le

On a typical Canberra winter’s morning, sunny and crystal clear, a substantial contingent of club members left the Hall lay-by destined for Jugiong. Inclusive of two cars that joined us at Boorowa and another at Jugiong there were 27 cars, one motorcycle, for 52 people on the run. It was interesting to note 6 (or 22%) NDs present, a couple on their inaugural club run.

Leaving Hall in two convoys we ran down the Barton Highway, onto the Hume Highway before tracking down Lachlan Valley Way to Boorowa. The Superb Bakery at Boorowa lived up to its namesake with ‘superb’ friendly, efficient and timely service plus great coffee and pastries. Sam the proprietor was very happy to see us all and possibly just as happy to see the rear of us – and for the bakery to get back to some normality. It was certainly the busiest shop in town that morning.

After regathering we headed across to Harden via Cunningar Road, then onto Jugiong Road tracking to Jugiong. The Boorowa to Jugiong run was done in one convoy and it was amusing to see such a long line of MX-5s snaking its way through these undulating and winding country roads. This region is home to some of the finest sheep grazing land in the country and some of the finest of wools.

From Boorowa through to Jugiong we were fortunate enough not to encounter any other vehicles or interruptions on the road. This lent itself to some ‘easy flow’ driving and arriving a little earlier than expected at the Sir George Tavern, Jugiong. Descending into Jugiong we encountered the only bit of fog – traipsing its way along the Murrumbidgee corridor but lifting soon after we arrived.

The tavern was originally built in 1845 on the banks of the Murrumbidgee but rebuilt where it stands today, following the great flood of 1852. It recently featured on the ‘Sydney Weekender’ and club members enjoyed the locally sourced produce, freshly baked breads, fine food and wine.

A great day was had by all with great top down weather and lots of chatty and friendly company.