July 4th Run to Hampton
07 July 2023 / Story by Chris Wyatt
An “independent” run to Hampton.
A long time ago we were taught by Lesa Bunn, our then convenor, that it never rains on an RPM run. It may drizzle and it may pour but it never rains. (There was a song about Southern California saying something like that)
Raining it was on the 4th of July as we gathered at Richmond Tourist Information Centre for our heart starter, photo session, and catch-up before the run. As eleven of us moved back to our cars it had eased back to drizzle and stayed there for the remainder of the run. RPM does it again.
Winding our way through Richmond and up Bells Line traffic was very slow, not helped by most of the overtaking lanes being closed for road works. The other frustrating thing was the large number of roadworks speed limit signs with no evidence of any work being done. That gave us plenty of time to partake in some healthy sledging over the radios.
Broken into three groups, we all arrived at Old Hartley within minutes to meet up with five more members from the upper mountains. What a great turnup for a Tuesday. Even the drizzle had eased up enough for us to catch up with recently returned cruisers and learn about the Pacific islands and the rivers of Europe. Stomachs were starting to rumble so we returned to our cars for the last few k’s to the Hampton Halfway House. This place has become a popular destination due to the great views complimented by hearty and good value food off a suitably sized and varied menu.
Gathering around the large fire we all sat around to talk about anything and everything including that the fire was a very convincing electric blower heater, but at least we kept each other warm with hot conversation. Rob Wilko had a “moment” when his chair slowly collapsed beneath him and everyone jumped to help him with no damage done.
This is a link to Rob Wilkin’s Relive file with all the pictures. Relive 'Hampton Halfway Hotel for Lunch.'
Keep up the great work Jacqui, Ron, and Garry we look forward to many more.
