Lunch With Sir George at Jugiong

09 April 2023 / Words by Ian Bottcher. Photos by Robyn Bottcher

With many of our chapter members away doing the big lap of Tassie, we still managed to gather 14 keen MX-5ers in eight sports cars for a zoom to Jugiong. Despite raining before our start from Hall, the day was predominately rain free.

The run to Boorowa was the first from memory that no trucks or slow-moving vehicles were encountered. First stop was for a much-needed coffee (and something sweet) at the Boorowa Superb Bakery and Lolly Shop. If you are ever out that way, our very own connoisseurs confirmed that their meat and vegetable locally made pasties are a treat – like those of old.

From Boorowa we headed along the Cunningar Road onto Harden, then onto Jugiong via the Jugiong Road. There was some trepidation that these secondary roads may still be recovering from recent La Nina conditions with some large craters expected. Much to our surprise and delight roads condition was very good (mostly better than the main roads) and a fun run was had with, once again almost no traffic. Moderately twisty, soundly surfaced tarmac, overcast but mild weather, little to no traffic, roof down equals great outing.

Staff at Sir George Jugiong welcomed the 14 of us for a great tasting and plentiful set shared menu comprising among other things 12-hour whole slow roasted lamb shoulders and whole chickens over coals with sides. [I am told there was plenty of left overs going home in ‘doggy bags’ – Editor]

We also met up with a couple from Griffith NSW who were passing through in their recently acquired 6 speed maroon NB for which they had some concern. They sought some advice as fuel economy was around the 14 litres per 100 kilometres! This was something none of us had never heard of or experienced, recommending they stick to their plan of having a reputable (MX-5 smart) mechanic check it out.

Just as lunch was done (thankfully) Jugiong village experienced a complete power outage (or is that outrage?). Bar, coffee machine and kitchen along with the electronic till were brought to a halt. Some were able to pay by cash but after some swift thinking by staff to switch outside to 3G (apparently that works at times like this but don’t ask me how) others were able to merrily tap their cards.
On the way back to our cars, the local billy goat greeted us - thankfully for a pat and not a butt.

After much friendly chatting solving the ‘big world issues’, getting to know others, not met before, and dining, members found their own way home mostly down the Hume with some stopping over at Yass for a coffee (yes, they had power).

Ian Bottcher