Port to Comboyne Run

12 January 2015 / Text - Greg Cox; Photos - Keiran Rodgers

Being our first outing for 2015, and with inclement weather threatening, it was pleasing to have our largest group to date consisting of nine cars (originating from Wingham in the South to Nambucca Heads in the North) depart the Port Macquarie Service Centre for the Boorganna Nature Reserve near Comboyne.

The weather was threatening as we travelled west on the Oxley Highway to Wauchope, where we stopped to raise our tops as heavier rain started. We soon reached the turn off to Byabarra, where we could open the throttle to the speed limit along stretches of flat and curved road with little traffic and enjoy the mountain scenery.

After slowing to drive through Byabarra, we commenced the climb up the Broken Bago mountain range to the Comboyne Plateau, enjoying a perfect MX-5 hill climb of sharp corners and dog leg turns that we had to approach somewhat conservatively due to the wet conditions.

Our next stop was the quaint village of Comboyne, where we enjoyed morning tea at the Udder Cow Café a delightful spot for coffee, cake, and a break from the rain.

Refreshed from our brief stop, we continued the short drive to the Boorganna Nature Reserve, where our more active members  attempted a rainforest walk descending to view the Rawson Falls.

After surviving the mosquitos and leeches, they returned and we then set off for our lunch at the Blue Poles Café and Art Gallery at Byabarra, a tiny settlement on the road back to Wauchope.

Our host Ian had set up tables for us on the outside balcony looking down a beautiful valley, and once again, the rain held off for most of our stay. This unusual venue combines a varied menu along with a display of locally produced art, and a B&B for those wishing to stay.

After a delicious meal with great company, which was enjoyed by all, it was soon time to depart for home looking forward to our next MX-5 Club run in February.