Hunter Xmas in July 2019

27 July 2019 / Poem by: Dianne Henderson, Photos: David Gazzard & Lyn Davis

'Twas 5 months before Xmas day
When a roar of MX5s set out on their way.
Off for a weekend to explore Jenolan Caves
With some unusual jumpers on display.

We left the twin servos with tops down but clouds looming
And cruised the Yarramalong Valley where the bulbs were blooming.
Through the bends of Bumblebee Hill to Wisemans Ferry
And on to Bilpin Fruit Bowl for lunch and lots of merry!

The clouds had all cleared and the sun was a shining
Then past the Blue Mountains we were all winding.
Magnificent views and lots of bird chatter
So what that it was growing colder...what did that matter.

Finally to the Caves we all arrived
Down the long, long path we walked to meet our guide.
Into the Caves and oh what a tour
Lots of ooohs and aaaahs as we descended right to the core.

An underground river so beautifully blue
And bones of a Tasmanian Tiger .... in NSW....who knew.
We learnt about mites and tites along the way
Through all 320 stairs dare I say.

So out of the Caves and the long climb to the car park.
Rob and Brian were keen to leave well before dark.
So off to the town of Lithgow and if I can be so bold
Man....it was bloomin' cold.

The tops were up and the heaters on high
When the countryside started to turn white.
What! Snow on a Xmas in July run?
Could it get to be any more fun?

So dashing through the snow
We made it to downtown Lithgow.
For a hearty Xmas dinner at the Bowen Inn
Sticky date pudding was my sin.

Chris took out the top Xmas jumper award I fear
With a reindeer shooting glitzy balls out of its...umm...rear.
A log fire and a hot toddy for some
What a way to end our adventurous day's run.

Then finally we rose to a sea of frosty cars
A continental breakfast and then off for a Sunday drive fit for the stars.
Through the Mountains with guide Rob relaying lots of interesting facts
Like an avenue of trees for each Prime Minister including those that were sacked.

Last stop was Glenorie Bakery for lunch and goodbyes
Then a leisurely drive home ...back to the real world (she sighs).
So a huge thank you to Rob & Brian for a fabulous weekend.
For the great organisation, weather and fun right to the absolute end.