Mazdas in the Mist

18 February 2024 / Judith Hansen

14 Chapter members, defying odds of 70% chance of rain, assembled at Olivers for the first run of 2024. Our numbers were boosted by two new members, Cath and Graham from South West Rocks, two visitors Gillian and Graham from RPM and of course, Rosy and Ken, our new co convenors, who had organised their first run.

In fine weather, we set off to explore our close rural towns, Telegraph Point and Pembroke, on our way to Beechwood. A variety of farms and hobby farms exist in these towns and many families have deep connections to the local history. New builds, attractive homesteads and some deserted shacks, these often surrounded by rusty relics and profuse growth of weeds, dot the landscape.

Beechwood café, a first visit for many, had friendly, efficient staff and a varied menu. We had a pleasant stop there and caught up with people we hadn’t seen for a while. Meanwhile, the predicted rain began rolling in. We left Beechwood in rain that continued for the rest of the run. A small hiccup occurred on our way to Wauchope but we reassembled outside town to begin our trip to Comboyne.

Comboyne is a beautiful place, magnificent green rolling hills and a wide variety of farms. From dairy to fruit and the famous Comboyne potatoes, locals and newcomers are employing newer methods of farming, organic being the most popular. It is becoming a popular tourist destination, although the access road is often closed or subject to repair. We saw the “slip” that necessitated the semi-permanent Stop/Go lights on the road. Judging by the amount of slippage to be replaced, the lights will there for a long time. But lights, rain and mist aside, we came down the hill, ready for lunch.

Byabarra has been a popular lunch destination for car runs, bike runs, family gatherings and hungry people for a while. Like everything in our beautiful area, it has become very busy. We chose from a comprehensive menu and the new faces added to the convivial atmosphere. Warm and dry, we were all appreciative of our meals when they arrived.

Thanks again to Rosy and Ken for organising the run and for stepping up to save the chapter from folding.

Thanks also to our photographers for the day, resident recorder Wayne Lang, Cath Dickey our new member and guest Gillian Fletcher.