Xmas in July - Illawarra Run
16 July 2013 / Peter Feutrill
Saturday 13 July was supposed to be fine and sunny. Well the first peep out the window showed a wet road outside, so the weatherman was shall we say – slightly incorrect again! Anyway you can’t do much about the weather, so expectations were high for a sensational run to the ‘Wang. That’s Wallerawang for those who don’t know.
Seven 5s and a 3 met at Hungry Jacks Haywards Bay, and off we went up the Pass and over to Goulburn. Roofs were down and spirits up. In Goulburn we stopped at the Bakehouse for a refreshment and some excellent pies and coffee while Cheryl Ashton took the opportunity to try on a possum top at the Big Merino (I know, it’s a bit confusing!)
The weather was getting better the further West we went, so off via Taralga, Abercrombie, Black Springs, Oberon, Tarana and Diamond Creek Road to our destination. About 400km worth. If you haven’t tried this in a 5 – I recommend it.
Poor Brendan and Anna who were our tail end Charlies! We obviously stirred up a mob of big grey kangas towards the end of the Diamond creek section and they decided to jump/hop across the road just as Brendan arrived - result one ‘roo into the driver’s door and one slightly crumpled door (the ‘roo is fine). Anna was worried it was going to end up in the cabin. Anyway that was enough excitement.
Our lodgings were in an old school that has been converted into a great accommodation and dining complex. There were 30 of us present at dinner (31 counting Alex, our Club's youngest member), and a really great night was had, thanks to the organisation of Lesa, Greg, Pam and Ray from the RPM Chapter. The after dinner games were particularly fun.
Next day we tagged along on a run via some really obscure places to Oberon for morning tea. Then there were just two Illawarra cars for the run home, with everyone else opting for the quick and easy return trip via the Great Western Hwy. We went via Shooters Hill Road and let me tell you that this is also a sensational drive. Lunch was at Taralga Pub where Bryan did justice to ‘the best' lamb shank meal he has had.
As we headed home we reflected on another weekend of enjoyment with our Club and the experience of great driving in great cars. I am always amazed by the good friends and good times that the purchase of the MX-5 and joining the Club has given us.
