RPM Cowra Weekend 11/2022

11 November 2022 / Story and Photo's by Debbie Dempsey

RPM Cowra Overnight Run Will we? Won’t we? With all the rain over the last year the roads are full of potholes (some people even refer to them as sink holes). Should we risk our precious cars? Will any of the roads be flooded? Will the motel have accommodation for us if locals need to be evacuated? Of course we went! A group of 13 in 8 cars set off for an overnight trip to Cowra. How wonderful to be meeting up with friends on a sunny Thursday morning in Glenbrook before picking up the other half in Hartley. The early start meant the air was a little chilly to begin our drive with our hoods down but the sunshine and blue skies more than compensated for that. Most MX5 drivers know the joys of the back roads from Hartley through to Hampton and on to Oberon heading towards Bathurst and on to Cowra. We were not disappointed. Spring had turned the pastures green and the views were a pleasure to see. Livestock dotted the paddocks, including some camels along the way. Except for the occasional CB warning of potholes, we had a most enjoyable drive through the countryside, stopping at Hampton for a delicious morning tea and lunch in Blayney. Afternoon summer temperatures were experienced in our drive from Blayney to Bathurst, a shock but a delight to many of the Mountain members who felt they had almost forgotten what the sun looked like! Many drivers sought a park in the shade when we visited the Information Centre where we enjoyed viewing the beautiful rose garden and a short movie about the breakout of Japanese prisoners of war in 1944. A quiet drink sitting in the shade was most pleasurable after booking into the motel. We were able to relax and enjoy catching up with everyone. A short walk to dinner with more socialising and an early night to bed ensured we were keen to continue on Friday. A breakfast at the Japanese Gardens before enjoying a walk around the beautifully designed and manicured garden was a great way to start the day before heading to the War Cemetery. After reading the headstones and feeling the significance of the deaths of local servicemen a short Remembrance Service was observed by our small group. With rain beginning, a quick conference was held and many cars then travelled together to have a quick exploration at the historical village of Carcoar before heading our own way home. The trip was filled with interesting roads to drive, lots of conversation, many laughs and shared passions. I know many of us are looking forward to planning runs for 2023.