Mike Walkden-Brown Memorial Run

Members of the Mid North Coast MX-5 Club and Visitors at Harrigan's Irish Pub, Harrington.
Pic 2 Lisa Hort Rick Martyn Chris Clark. Sandie Hammond. Steve Martyn. Leonie Martyn. Greg Cox. Wayne Lang. Cathy Lang. Crowdy Bay Lighthouse Lookout. Crowdy Head Lighthouse. Harrington Lookout. Crowdy Head Lighthouse Judith Hansen. John Hansen. Greg Cox. Pic 19 Mike's seat at the head of the table.

21 May 2017 / Words by Wayne Lang, Photos by Wayne Lang & Graham Rochester

It was a very sad day for our club this week when long-time member and friend Mike Walkden-Brown died peacefully at his home Wednesday evening. It was agreed by all, that Mike would want us to proceed with our Sunday run to Harrington regardless of his absence, which we dedicated in his honour.

The contingent met at our usual departure spot at the Port Macquarie Service Centre, and waited for everyone to turn up. It had rained all night and most of the morning, but by the time we were ready to leave, the skies had started clearing like Mikey was conducting the weather.

We took the most direct route toward Harrington, but then decided to take a little detour with some twisty roads down through Lansdowne. We headed out the back of Coopernook through the enjoyable twisting roads, even though there was no shortage of potholes and degraded edges, until finally reaching Cundletown, then it was back out onto the Pacific Highway, and the short drive back to the Harrington turn-off. Next stop Harrigan's Irish Pub where we made our way to our reserved table and settled in for an ale and a bite to eat. The food was tasty and quite excellent value.

After walking down to the Manning River for a look and a chat, it was off to the Harrington Lookout for some pics. About half an hour was spent checking out the lovely views and chatting among ourselves before setting off out to Crowdy Head Lighthouse for a look. After some more photos and trying to catch a look at some passing whales, we then said our farewells until next time.

A great day was had, even though those who new Mike felt sombre with the loss of our old mate. R.I.P. Mikey. You'll forever be in our hearts.

Thanks to all the members and Visitors: Greg Cox, Cathy Lang, Wayne Lang, Chris Clark, Sandie Hammond, John Hansen, Judith Hansen, Lisa Hort, Rick Woodley, Leonie Martyn, Steve Martyn and Graham Rochester.