Laggan Pub Lunch

19 August 2024 / Words: Ian Bottcher, Phots: Robyn Bottcher and Lili Chi

Once upon a time there were 32 MX-5ers and 20 MX5s. In fact, in this case, the time was as recent as Saturday 10 August 2024 and all were eager to hit the road at Sutton NSW, running mostly topless to Laggan NSW via Gundaroo, Gunning, Grabben Gullen, Crookwell before our Laggan destination. It’s a relatively short run (approx. 110 kms), well known to many for being curvilinear and one that never disappoints. It was also apparent that the local councils had worked hard and timely to upgrade much of the surface for us – in the best condition seen for some years.

Given the numbers the run was split into two groups. Thanks to Peter Wilson who assisted by leading the first run group (8 MX5s) by “waypoint”, all finding the correct route to Laggan. The second run group, led by myself (12 MX5s) found their way in convoy.

Colin and Jenny Faulkner, and Grant and Loray Freeman from Illawarra Chapter went out of their way to join the run, their fresh/new faces were well appreciated, quickly melding with us Canberrans.

Luck would have it that a Sydney Vintage Car Club luncheoned simultaneously at the Laggan Hotel. Everything British from Jaguars (E-type to XK120s), Bentleys and others plus a bit of Italiana thrown in (Lancia Beta Montecarlo) kept many of us admiring long after lunch. The pics do not really do the XK120s justice - they were very easy on the eye and in great condition. Despite this, I’m not convinced they would be as much fun to drive as a MX5.

If you are ever in the region, the Laggan Hotel does a great pub lunch. Don't be fooled by the town size (said to be 350 residents), the hotel welcomed and looked after not only the 32 of us but also 35 from the Vintage Car Club. This run may well become an annual event on our calendar.

After lunch and much 'kicking antique and MX-5 car tyres' some left of their own accord while others found their way to The Roses Cafe at Goulburn for further fodder and a quiet coffee or two before heading down the Hume to ACT.

The numbers looked like being around the 40 mark at one time, however unfortunately some could not join us at the last minute plus restrictions had to be placed due to the hotel capacity. Thank you to all who could join us on the day for another very social day of drink, food, great company, storytelling and safe driving - all high priorities on the MX-5 calendar.

Ian & Robyn Bottcher