NEWSLETTERS 08/09

 NOV 08

November saw our monthly meeting back at Burrum Heads. As it was the last meeting for the year, we expected a good turnout and weren't disappointed. We rode up with Qld Chapter members, a NZ Patriot and by the time we reached Burrum, we had a full complement of Wide Bay members and supporters.

          We settled in to the motel/caravan park and proceeded to watch the antics of the poker run riders that stopped at the tavern.

          Steve from the tavern made available his dining room for our meeting that must have been a record for short meetings. More visitors arrived so we moved into the park/barbecue area for a continuation of festivities. Ballbag and Scratch sourced the meat and Steve supplied the barbecue, esky and ice. The overall organization was done by Phil and Deb in their usual efficient Navy manner. The final head count was between 25 and 30 revelers and feedback indicates that all had a brilliant time.

          Next morning after farewells to Ballbag and Scratch who were heading back to Dysart we left Burrum for points south. Map's back went head to head with the potholes so he had a slow trip back. Not so for the other riders who used the wind to clear their heads. A bit of traffic close to Brisbane but no real dramas. Another great ride.

 DEC 08

Representation at the NAGM was good with members riding and the sooks traveling compliments of Virgin Airlines. It was an opportunity to put faces to names and to break bread and drink with members of other Chapters. Pats on the back must go to the riders from WA and NT.

 Merry Xmas and a Happy New Year to all. Stay safe.

 

BUNDABERG RIDE JAN 09

 Saturday started fine with meeting up with the Queensland Chapter at the Church and departure at 0830 as scheduled. An uneventful ride to Matilda Gympie for fuel then to Torbanlea where we picked up another Wide Bay member. Things progressively turned bad with black clouds forming to the north of us. Leaving Torbanlea, we ran into a wall of water that only eased when we reached Bundy. 80 kms of following the taillight in front and hoping we didn't end up in someone's driveway. Boots were emptied and clothes changed and we were ready to party. Most fronted up to the RSL for a feed and drinks and then back to the Federal to kick on. Meeting up with Wazza, Ant and Co from Bros in Arms Club during the evening. Ballbag had the Wide Bay Nominee in tow and if Tomo can handle a session with the SAA, he should be an asset to the Chapter. Members and Supporters partied till the early hours, a fitting end to the day.

 Next day most members mounted up for a 200km return trip to Burrum Heads for lunch. A good run and thanks to Phil for leading us back on the scenic route to Bundy. A good road, no traffic and plenty to see. Most enjoyable.

 Mild party Sunday night as all wanted to be fresh(ish) for the run home.

 The run home was dry with the exception of one heavy shower that necessitated a stop to don the wet weather gear. Traffic near Brisbane was a car park that saw bikes overheating. The unmarked car turned his siren on in recognition of our plight. (I think).

 After splitting up we returned home individually and reflected on another great annual run. No dropsies and no politics. Just some mates having a good time.  

 

  

MEMORIAL RIDE 28th Feb 09

 

Riders started arriving at 0800 for milling before the ride. A service was held and a minute's silence observed prior to departure to Tin Can Bay. The ride to TCB was uneventful with ride discipline maintained.

 

The group met up with Maureen Costello at the cemetery where Bones rests. Members reflected on Bones time with the Club and Maureen unveiled plaques with Bones Patriots and MP regalia.

 

We then rode to the TCB RSL where we met up with the remainder of the Wide Bay Chapter and proceeded to partake of refreshments. Catching up was in order before a short ceremony was held, hosted by the new RSL President, Maureen and a toast to Bones proposed by Phoenix. The RSL provided food for the members and thanks must go to Lynn and TwoTone for the quality and quantity of the victuals.

 

Most departed the RSL for the ride home at about 1400. The trip back was good, missing the usual Caboolture car park. We temporarily lost a few riders but a bit of detective work soon located them.

 

Queensland and Wide Bay Chapter members then gathered at Bear and Kerry's place for the Wide Bay meeting followed by a barbecue and thirst quenchers. Many thanks to Judy and Spike for their efforts on the night. Greatly appreciated folks. Congratulations to Cookie on his being welcomed as a patched member of the Chapter.

 

In all the day was full but most enjoyable. The proposal is to have the trip scheduled annually by Patriots and the TCB RSL. A good idea.

 

Bear

 

ANZAC DAY TIN CAN BAY

The Wide Bay Chapter assembled for drinks and catch up on the 24^th April at the Tin Can Bay RSL.

Next morning saw the Chapter on the foreshore for the Dawn Service followed by a Gunfire breakfast at the RSL. A few rums and coffee then it was assembly time for the march. One of our members, Cookie, was granted the honour of being a flag bearer and the rest of us formed up with the locals. We marched to the cenotaph where Bear laid a wreath on behalf of all Patriots. The group then formed up and marched to the RSL where we disbanded and adjourned to the bar or the two up. The Patriots Wide Bay members were made extremely welcome by Maureen, President of the RSL and the public of the town. We were well represented by Cookie out the front and Twotone with his bagpipes. A special thank you must go to "Red" Robyn for providing accommodation for some of the members. All members agreed that we should again support the TCB RSL next year.

 

Bear.

 

MONTO RIDE 22/23/24 MAY 09

Bear and Chuck from the Qld Chapter left BP North at 0600 and battled thick fog and marauding deer as they trekked through Kilcoy, Nanango and on to Ban Ban Springs to meet up with the Bundy, Hervey Bay and Tin Can Bay members. Along with Ballbag who somehow found himself at Bundaberg. Then on to Monto where all except Chucky booked in to the local pub and proceeded to sample their wares. The sampling went on till the early hours for some members. Along with bonding with the locals.

The next day saw the crew milling about waiting for nom Tomo from Bundy. When he arrived we mounted up and headed out to Cania Gorge, some 30 km out of Monto. The Cania dam and a refurbished gold mine were visited but the high point of the excursion was the ride through the gorge. Unfortunately Tomo found his bike wont remain pristine forever. Lots of cow patties to avoid.

Back in Monto we adjourned to the pub for our meeting that finished with Tomo's patching. Welcome aboard Bro.

Saturday night was quiet as the sidewalks were rolled up at 8.30. The high point of the night was a Q and A session with the task force lawmen. All went away happy.

Sunday saw the crew up early for a 0700 departure. Ballbag left at 0800 for the run back to Dysart. Sidestand left us at Gayndah, Jimbo and Phil at Ban Ban so Chuck and Bear ran into Brisbane as a duo. A good and uneventful ride home following an enjoyable weekend in the bush. I recommend this type of trip to all the city slickers that want a new experience.

 

 

Bear