Hunter's lake to Mount Mini Run

15 June 2020 / Written by: John Purcell, Photos: John Purcell, Barry Luttrell

The Hunter Chapter’s Plan ‘C’. That is, post Covid-19!

Our first mini-run of the post-covid era was set up as 3 separate runs over the same route with the same start and finish locations on 3 different days. The idea was that by using different run leaders on each day, we opened the opportunity for 30 members to enjoy a long-awaited run in their cherished MX5’s.

The route started at Speers Point park on Lake Macquarie taking back roads around the lake to Toronto then heading toward the vineyards and Cessnock. A diversion down Sandy Creek road opened us up to some nice country driving with some interesting tight sections thrown in. Continuing on back roads we skirted Cessnock and headed back to Newcastle before turning arriving at our destination, Mount Sugarloaf.

You couldn’t have arranged for 3 so totally different days as our first excursion was a midweek run and the weather decided to, of course, rain. This didn’t stop all those who had registered actually attending, so with tops up for protection it was ‘start those engines and let’s head off’. With a little caution on the winding wet roads, the first group arrived at the picnic area, very happy to take advantage of one of the covered picnic areas.

     

Excursion number 2 started out cloudy but fair, so this time it was tops down and off we go with dry roads. This time the twisting tight sections of the route allowed for a bit of fun and everyone enjoyed driving in the sun. This time uncovered picnic tables were chosen to make the most of the sunshine.

    

Torrential rain across the Hunter at 5:00am on the morning of the third run raised questions as to whether or not to have an alternate destination within a short driving distance but as the time for departure got closer, the rain eased off to allow for a sunny start to the run. A mix of the previous two run conditions applied - very wet and occasionally slippery roads, while being able to drive with the roof down to enjoy the sunshine and again making the most of the sunshine at our destination.

Irrespective of their weather conditions everyone from the 3 groups said they enjoyed getting out in their cars and catching up with friends they haven’t seen for several months. Many thanks to each of the run leaders for helping Hunter to get out and about again and for giving everyone a fun outing.