Comboyne / Byabarra Escape

21 January 2016 / Words Greg Cox. Photos Keiran Rodgers

Our usually fine Mid North Coast weather deserted us for the start of our first 2016 run to the hinterland towns of Comboyne and Byabarra.

It was under threatening storm clouds that our eight MX-5s departed west from Port Macquarie with roofs up, “just in case”.

With heavy holiday traffic along the coast at this time of year, we find this “Inland Escape” provides a less interrupted drive.

New member Dave Masters and son Mitch travelled a considerable distance from Byron Bay to join us in their new ND. Welcome to you both.

Travelling west through Wauchope on the Oxley highway, we turned south through Byabarra and climbed Mount Comboyne on a delightful winding section of road where MX5’s can demonstrate their cornering agility.

Arriving at Comboyne we found our usual morning tea stop “The Udder Cow” had closed, so all 14 of us walked into nearby Ruby’s Café where we took over all the seating for our morning tea, leaving other customers to stand outside.

Due to earlier rain in the area, it was decided not to visit the Boorganna Nature Reserve as planned, and instead took a short drive out of Comboyne before turning back to descend Mount Comboyne and drive on to our lunch venue, Blue Poles Café at Byabarra.

With rain still threatening, we took the risk and host Ian set our table outside on the deck area with valley and mountain views.

After an enjoyable meal with much light hearted banter, we departed independently for our respective home destinations.

A special thank you to Mike Walken-Brown who provided gifts to everyone on the day.