Mollymook/Bannister’s Rooftop Bar and Grill Run

23 June 2019 / Words and pictures Peter & Jennifer Le. A few extra words Rod Nicholas

Sunday 16 June 2019

Sunday morning was overcast and grey as nine cars pulled in to the Spotlight car park at Queanbeyan, set for a great run down the Clyde to Mollymook Beach.

We picked up another two cars in Bungendore as we made our way to Braidwood for the almost obligatory caffeine refill. There’s nothing rustic about the tucker at the Albion Café – their rhubarb muffin was glorious, and the coffee was just what was needed.

Back on the road, we headed down the Clyde, and on up to Mollymook. The road was in excellent condition and – most pleasingly - had very little traffic. We were rarely impeded from enjoying (lawfully) the winding road down the mountain, which is almost perfect for the MX5. The scenery was lush as always, but the weather let us down a little; the wintry threat of rain left little choice but to keep the roof up. Still, the intermittent rain on the way down did not deter the group in any way.

The lack of traffic holdups meant we made good time to Mollymook (we rocked up at the restaurant a good half hour earlier than expected). We had noted a couple of brightly coloured patrol cars on the Clyde, but they had no interest in our law-abiding convoy.

The Bannister’s Pavilion restaurant/hotel was a hit with everyone. Contemporary, bright and airy, looking out on to a terrace with umbrellas and pool, there is no lack of stylishness. Generous sized meals were enjoyed by all; peri peri chicken, seafood linguini, fish, burgers, and a variety of salads were among the choices.

Three couples among the group decided to make the most of their south coast visit by staying the night. The rest made their way home though some very heavy rain that followed us to Batemans Bay, but the trip back up the Clyde was quick and uneventful (as such a trip should always be).

It has been suggested that we might take advantage of the venue at some other time during the year. This very appealing hotel could make a perfect overnight stay for a longer run down the coast – something to keep in mind!