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| Reports of CCTCC Rides Last updated on 19 November 2023 CCTCC FaceBook Group page is here. |
 Out as far as possible on Ourimbah Creek - 19 November 2023 Twenty-one riders gathered at Rotary Park at Wyong this morning, for an old but popular ride - All The Rivers Run! Andrew was leading, and Paul went Sweep. Ride over the Wyong River Bridge and down to South Tacoma. Ten of us rode down a pleasant little track to the end of the spit and took some nice photos. Then back to the highway and down Tuggerah Straight and through the Lake Road/Church Road loop to Chittaway Bay. Nice new surface on these roads after many years of inferior bumpy roads. Down to the end of Ourimbah Creek, but nobody could be bothered getting off their bikes to explore further, so no photos except the cyclone fence you have to walk through. Then back to Tuggerah and down the Tuggerah Straight the other way, to Johnson St and up through the estate to the Woodbury Community Hall where we were due to have our barbecue and the AGM. Not a very long ride, so I started from home to make it longer. Then I got a lift home from the hall to make it shorter. 46km for me and anywhere from 35 to 50 for the others. The result of the elections for office bearers was a re-election of everybody into their old jobs. Congratulations everyone! Loading my bike onto my truck was not as simple as it should have been, as I slipped off the milk crate I use to get in and out of the tailgate, scraping my shin nastily. You should see my legs - bandages, blood and plaster everywhere! Not just from today. Thanks to Ian and Annie for coming to my rescue with dressings. Thanks to everyone for coming today, thanks to Andrew and Paul for keeping us safe, and thanks to the committee for doing a good job, and thanks to the caterers for the delicious lunch and coffee at the hall. Danny  At the very end of Wyong River looking out over Tuggerah Lake - 19 November 2023  |
 Paul delivers his daily ride briefing at SWR Surf Club - 30 October 2023 A forecast of 33°C at Kempsey put the wind up a few of us, but it only ever got to 27° with a strong sea breeze all day to keep it cooler. Fourteen riders today, Paul still leading and Glenn still sweep, thanks so much you chaps! A bigger ride planned with a leg out along South West Rocks Road to Hat Head Road and along that dodgy road. I say dodgy as it has recently been re-laid, but now features a steep bank on the sides and loose tiny (quarter minus) stones to ensure that any slip is non-negotiable. We had a nice NE tail-wind all the way so the riding was pleasant. Hat Head is very much a holiday town, with the main traffic being caravans, utes and garbage trucks, as far as we could see. One of our main activities for the day was finding toilets, often relying on secluded bushland. We had lunch in Hat Head, mostly from a hamburger shop that had a sign that said "Don't be rude to staff or you'll be thrown out", and it wasn't a joke. The woman there was as rude as they come, and it was a fair warning. Carol - Is that a hamburger? Response - Whatever! Did have very nice food though, so that's all that matters I suppose! Going home was a different matter, with a strong wind in our faces all the way. To add to our trials Merrilyn got a puncture, on the way out I think, and Lyn's battery went flat about 5km out from SWR on the way home, so Danny volunteered to do the rescue, racing back to town to get his truck, but missing the pick-up point on the way back out and driving an extra 28km before making the rescue. Sheesh! Tony went straight home after our return today, and I'll be going in the morning. The Surf Club is shut on Monday nights, so five of us went to the Seabreeze Beach Hotel (where Paul and I are staying) for dinner. Whatsapp was invaluable in these circumstancs - we're making the most of this modern technology. A couple of decades ago we wouldn't have been able to organise anything at short notice! About 58km for today's ride, more if you kept Strava going during the rescue by truck. Thanks to everyone for coming! Danny  Hat Head Beach - 30 November 2023 |
 South West Rocks riders at Macleay River Breakwall - 29 October 2023 Twelve members made it to South West Rocks, ready for an interesting few days by the sea. Paul was our leader, and Glenn looked after the tail-end. Only a short warm-up ride today - just 13km out to McLeay River Breakwall and back. A beautiful day - warm with a good breeze. Back to the SWR Surf Club where we started. The name South West Rocks is puzzling, as it is only south-west of the ocean, but in the old days, that was the instruction of where to moor your sailing ship - in the bay, north-east of the rocks! Most of us thought we could do more riding so we set off further south to the Trial Bay Gaol. Most of our riding was done on walking/cycle paths. Carol had been here before so she knew the layout and led the way. Linda and Peter came with us, and Paul later. This added another 12km so a total 25km seemed like a good start to our holiday. At around 5.00pm we made our way on foot (everyone was staying within walking distance of the SLSC) to the club for a Happy Hour and dinner. What I liked about the surf club is that you didn't have to sign in or pay membership or be told not to wear a hat. By about 5.30pm we had had enough of being happy and ordered our dinner. For a surf club it was a very good menu. Carol, Linda and I had the curried prawns, while everyone else had normal pub tucker. Everybody was satisfied with their choice. A bigger day tomorrow - 60km, and it's going to be quite hot (33°C), so let's hope there's a nice sea breeze (which is the name of my hotel). Danny  Trial Bay Gaol - 29 October 2023 |
 Re-group at Batto Bay - 22 October 2023 Forecast was a very warm day, but a 5 knot southerly at 0900 and a 10-15 knotter South between 11 and 12 o'clock meant it was never going to be hot near the coast. I rode from home at Lake Haven but everyone else except maybe Linda drove to the Wyong toilets except Marshall who caught the train from Newcastle and Graeme and Merrilyn from Morisset. Jenny led the ride and Glenn swept up. Fifteen of us altogether, well done Club! Over the river and along Gavenlock and Anzac Road, across the highway and railway to the Bulk Centre. Along Lake Rd and Church Rd, now newly re-surfaced, thanks CCC, to Chittaway. Hoping for a layer of HotMix soon! Sticking next to Wyong Road, we skirted our usual route next to the lake until we got to Long Jetty. Well done Jenny! Through The Entrance (T/E) and finally as far as Batto Bay where we took that photo above. That was the last we saw of Nikki as, due to unfortunate circumstances, she got left behind and didn't have the address for morning tea at Jenny's. She made a desperate attempt at re-connecting via Whatsapp but nobody responded, so she had no choice but to ride back on her own. So sorry, Nikki! Anyway, everybody else rode to the top of Crackneck, including all the Muscle-bike riders, we took some more photos then rode carefully down the steep mountain to Jenny's place where she had prepared a lavish spread. Sue had a lovely Labrador dog called Nels who is a Vision Australia puppy-in-training. Sue's photo. After the sudden disappearance of our Group Page from FB, I tried to make another one but it hasn't worked properly, so I'll have another go. I think I made an internet page instead. We then prepared to leave the coast to return to Wyong, but I was a bit concerned about my battery life, so I went home via T/E and Toukley instead. According to Google GPS maps it was shorter that way by 4 minutes, but while I had 40km at the top of Crackneck, it was only 69km by the time I got home, so a lot shorter that way. Anyway, I better get started on our FB Group page. Thanks everyone for coming, and thanks to Jenny and Glenn for keeping us safe, and for the delicious morning tea. Danny  Nels the puppy and our ride group at Jenny's - 22 October 2023 |
 At the top of our ride - Hidden Valley - 15 October 2023 With the ride starting at Gosford and me living at Lake Haven, I had to decide whether to drive to Gosford and join the team, or just ride to Hidden Valley, Ourimbah, but miss the social side. As it turns out, several other people were wondering the same thing, but Michelle and Narelle just said they were starting at Wyong. So I offered to join them, so did quite a few others. In the end, ten of us started at Wyong and only five at Gosford! On a lovely warm morning we all set out from either Wyong or Gosford and met at the bottom of Ourimbah Creek Road (OCR) at about 10.00 o'clock. After a short discussion we decided to have morning tea (m/t) at the Heatherbrae Pie Shoppe (HPS), rather than our usual place of the nursery restaurant. So the plan was to ride out to the end of OCR, back to Footts Road, past the Crematorium and along to the HPS. I found some animals on the way up OCR and re-acquainted myself with the owners who were very nice and helpful, as they usually are, taking my photo with my camera while I fed the goats some roughage which they gave me. See the photos. After a delicious m/t we started back, with two of the Wyong Group going back to Gosford with the home group (Tony and Rae). Paul took his group back down the highway, feel free to add some copy for your section of the ride, Paul! The remainder of the Wyong group rode down to Burns Road and along Enterprise Drive. For variety I took them down Corella Close, next to the Sanatorium factory, where we always went before they finished the intersection with Wyong Road. Only trouble was there was a huge B-Double rig completely blocking Corella Close, and the driver didn't seem to know how to get it unstuck. No problems for cyclists though as we just walked around the end of the truck and continued down to Apprentice Drive. At this stage I thought - why not use the same track off Hereford Road we always did to get back onto Wyong Road next to the river? So we did, and everyone enjoyed the dirt track and interesting scenery. Back on Wyong Road, we turned down Reliance Drive as usual for a smoother run back to Tuggerah. A very enjoyable ride, different as most of us started at the wrong place, but convenient for everyone. Thanks for coming everyone. Thanks to Paul and everyone who helped out. Distance was between 40 and 72km (me), depending on which ride you did and where you started. Danny  At Farmer Friendly's Farm with the goats (no alpacas today) - Sunday 15 October 2023 |
 Glenn and his team at Caves Beach - Sunday 8 October 2023 Fifteen riders set off from Broadmeadow Station this morning in perfect conditions, a light breeze keeping the max temperature to around 20 deg. Glenn was leading today and Jenny kept the back markers in check. Andrew was unfortunately an early scratching as he had a puncture and returned home. We met our local guide Marshall at the start of the Fernleigh at Adamstown, so fifteen riders it was. Not too much traffic on the track at this time so we made good progress, arriving at the Belmont end relatively quickly. We ducked onto the Pacific Hwy for a couple of blocks before getting back on the cycleway near the golf course. Marsh pointed out the progress on the missing link for the bike path, so hopefully it will be completed the next time we do this ride. We carried on to Caves Beach and enjoyed the views of the coastline (see pic), before returning to the Bakers Den for lunch. The service was great, the cakes and pies were excellent and we had two outside tables in the shade. It is definitely worth the effort and risk involved in getting across the road! The return was back the way we came, the Fernleigh in the other direction. A lovely ride of around 55kms with no incidents, thanks Glenn, Jenny and Michelle for looking after the [tail end?] Glenn |
 With my team on the Tuggerawong Pathway, Rocky Point - 1 October 2023Despite all the naysayers forecasting hot weather, eleven riders turned up at Wyong to have a go. On the way there from my home it was actually quite cool rushing down the hills. This was 7.15am EST but 8.15 today due to the summertime clock change. Even so it was quite mild at Wyong for the start. We had a couple of visitors who caught the train from Morriset and were held up, but we set off and Glenn stayed to meet them. We all re-gathered at Palmer Street, Rocky Point. It turns out that Tony and I have ridden before, back in the old days when the Toukley mob used to go out to Richmond to ride the mountains. He was known as Ambo Tony but has since retired from his emergency job. Good to catch up, and his wife Rae joined in. Welcome to you! By the time we got to Toukley Bridge we had a re-think about riding all the way around Budgewoi Lake and decided to have coffee at La Macchina at Northlakes Centre, San Remo, then ride back through the Warnie Wetlands to Wyong. The total distance was reduced to 35km (57 for me) but much easier on everyone. There was quite a stiff northerly breeze, but of course once we turned back towards Wyong it became a nice tailwind. Linda had already decided to cut her ride short, but once we chose the shorter route she stayed with us to near her home. That bridge crossing at Wallarah Creek certainly is a hazard, as Tony, not being used to it, came to grief and scraped his leg on the bridge superstructure. On the way back I took the crew over the bridge on the roadway, as the way was clear. The first car to catch us up kindly waited for us to finish crossing before passing, and another driver waited for us at the refuge crossing near Bunnings - some very kind drivers around! A very successful ride, thanks to Paulie for sweeping up and Glenn for riding shotgun. Danny |
 Colin with the CCTCC group at Blackwall - 24 September 2023 A bit cool to start, but turning into a perfect day for the 12 riders who met at Lions Park in Gosford, for a ride down the path to Ettalong Beach. Another four riders joined us at Woy Woy, including a new lady, Ozzie, even though Paul was waiting for her at Gosford. Annie Sv and Jane also met us at Woy Woy. We hadn't seen Tony for a couple of years either, so it was nice to see these guys again. That made 16 who set off behind our leader, Colin, with Glenn looking after the tail-end, as we negotiated the traffic on the path southwards. Because of the pleasant conditions, many walkers and runners were out for some exercise, along with their kids and dogs - all welcome! When we got to our destination - Ettalong Beach - there were many cafés but also lots of patrons trying to order their Sunday morning caffeine shots. Queues were out the door, so we spread out over the whole strip and Coliin, Carol and I found a lovely café a couple of k's down the road. Beautiful coffee but the service was dodgy (wrong order, no order...). We re-gathered at the appointed place and rode a different route back to Woy Woy for variety, where we lost a couple of riders, but Ozzie stayed with us to experience the route up to Gosford then caught the train back to WW, with help from Paulie. A nice pace was set by Colin, and it was a very enjoyable ride, with thanks to Col and Glenn for looking after us. Thanks everyone for coming! Danny  Carol and Oz at Woy Woy on the way back - 24 September 2023 |
 Glenn and his team on the Tuggerawong Path - 17 September 2023 Such a lovely day today - sunny, very warm, clear skies. Ten Riders gathered at Wyong for a 40km ride within 11km of my place. Glenn devised this new ride and took us on the exciting route to places like Mataram Ridge which, despite being a resident of 24 years, I had never seen or heard of before. Paulie was our sweep. Carol was our duty nurse, on standby, but luckily not needed today. Thanks to all the team! First of all, down the 'river' road and on to the new bike path, as we call it, to the other end. Back up Wahroongah Road and through Kanwal to the main east-west road (Wallarah Road) and across the Pacific Highway to Sparks Road. Outside the church in Kanwal we all rode past a soft black parcel in the middle of the road which, of course, I had to retrieve in the face of oncoming traffic. Soft like a dry-cleaning bag full of wedding clothes, which it was. More Later. Along Sparks Road and cross over into Woongara and all the back streets. All of a sudden my confidence in knowing exactly where I was evaporated and I was as lost as anyone. Good one Glenn! Along some hidden tracks then we found ourselves at a picnic area known as Mataram Ridge with a nice view of the area. Eventually we came out onto Mataram Road and finished up at Hiawatha Road then crept up the side of Sparky to Minnesota Road. With a few more interesting deviations we eventually got to Warnies Café only about 20 minutes before our allocated table booking. After a delicious coffee and pressed avo sanger (me) we set off back to Wyong. Near the intersection of Minnesota and W'vale Roads Glenn took his faithful crew down another side road, while I decided I had had enough, temperature being 31°C, and headed for home. Well done everyone. By the way, the clothing parcel was a dinner suit and fancy shirt, size 2XL, so bigger than me. Still on the fence 2 hours later! Plastic hangers all smashed but the clothing just about untouched. Danny |
 Rest break at Croydon Park where it was 12°C - 10 September 2023 Sunday 10 September 2023 - Strathfield to Brighton-le-Sands A very chilly morning saw ten riders gather at Strathfield Plaza for a quick cup of coffee before heading off to Cooks River on our way to Botany Bay. Sue was leading and Steve followed up. We had a return of seldom-seen rider Suzanne from Edgecliff, as seen in the photo above, viz Rob, Roy, Paul, Suzanne, Sue, John, Carol, Steve, Colin and me (Danny) just out of shot behind the camera. This is a very intricate and tricky ride, and Sue, Steve and Paul are the only ones who know it. I've done it about twenty times and haven't got a clue. Still, it's interesting and always a surprise. A section that used to be very tricky was a path that ran alongide a wall under a bridge, right next to a nasty fence and a steep drop into the creek that has fortunately been taken out of the route while they figure out what to do there. Some of this reporting may be a bit subjective so take that into account. The main attraction of this ride is that it's so different to our usual rides around lakes and well-known areas on the Central Coast. Eventually we made it to Brighton-le-Sands with its totally different look to our home area. There's a beautiful beach for one thing, with volley-ball or similar nets set up and everyone having a lot of fun playing in the sand. There are aeroplanes taking off and landing over the Bay, a sight not known on the Central Coast. People of all different shades and modes of dress all mingling closely together, while their food order numbers are called out. Some very beautiful bodies on display, especially the guys. After enjoying the exciting atmosphere at the beach we headed back to Strathfield for another long train trip, except a few who actually live in Sydney. After leaving home at 0620, I returned to my cottage at 1600, so not too inconvenient. At Wyong I had to back my bike out of the carriage but dropped it in the doorway then fell out on to the platform, causing concern among the many witnesses. However I immediately sprang to my feet with the explanation "I'm always falling over!", grabbed my bike out of the gap and bolted. A lovely ride, thanks Sue, Steve and Paul for everything. Pity more of us weren't able to enjoy the ride. Danny  Fun on the Brighton-le-Sands beach - 10 September 2023 |
 Col and his crew at The Big Prawn Crangan Bay - 27 August 2023 Only a select few turned up for this special ride, from Wyong Toilets to Broadmeadow Rail at Newcastle. Eight started here, but we picked up three more at the Toukley Bridge, so eleven for the day, not bad considering how far the ride was (about 70km basic ride, plus a few rode from home). JD and Annie rode from home to Toukley bridge, then up to Blacksmiths and back, so 67km for them. Lunch was enjoyed at the Baker's Den, at Blacksmiths - a superlative café, especially the curried lamb pies. That gave us the energy to ride up to the Fernleigh Track, then up to Whitebridge. I got a flat at this point, and Michelle helped me fix it, thanks Michelle, and the others waited for us at the top end. To show my appreciation I showed them the way to Broady station, where we caught the train home, except for Col and Marshall, who had joined us at Adamstown, who went for a tour of the waterfront at Newcastle harbour. A lovely ride, with perfect weather, and a very interesting route. Thanks everyone for coming, thanks Col for leading, and Michelle and Narelle for sweeping up. Danny  The scene at Crangan Bay, Big Prawn - 27 August 2023 |
 CCTCC Holiday Group South Coast - 20 August 2023 |
 Cruising the beautiful Council bikepath - 13 August 2023 Well it started out a bit cold and rainy today for 16 riders for a ride around Budgewoi lake, lead by Michelle. Thankfully all went smoothly and the rain eventually stopped when we got to Budgewoi. A lovely ride on a lot of pathways around the lake, lovely scenery not too many walkers or dogs in our way. Danny met us for a nice coffee stop at Macchina Northlakes, hot drinks and nice food all round. The sun was then out, we had all dried out so we enjoyed our way back to Wyong. Thanks Michelle for a great ride and John and Col for sweeping. Jenny  Some of today's riders at Northlakes café (Danny didn't ride) - 13 August 2023 |
 CCTCC members at Long Jetty picnic shelter for brekkie - 6 August 2023 Long Jetty (LJ) really, but a classic ride. eight riders fronted at Wyong Toilets. One decided not to ride, not saying who, and drove direct to LJ, and Michelle headed off early to help with cooking, but the rest of us, with Jenny leading, set off for Long Jetty. I had ridden from home, leaving Lake Haven at 0615 in the pitch dark, all rugged up against the weather, but you can't see puddles in the dark, so soon hit one and got drench foot. By the time I got to Wyong it was daylight. As we rode along through Tuggerah and Chittaway the rain continued falling all the way to LJ. It was very nice to see all the happy picnickers gathered at the barbecue, and we were welcomed as lost friends (first photo). Even Brenda drove my ute from home so I didn't have to ride anywhere else. It was quite cold, especially if one was soaking wet, so I was glad for the lift. The egg and bacon rolls were delicious, but the fried bacon rind wasn't so nice, even if it did look like fried onions. My bad (luck). After the breakfast was over only four riders headed back to Wyong, so I'm hoping they made it OK (see the other photo). Thanks everyone for coming, and thanks to Jenny for leading, and Colin F for sweeping up. Thanks to Glenn, Sue and Michelle for preparing the eggs, bacon and hot water. Thanks to Nicolette for the wonderful photo. Danny  Jenny with her team heading back to Wyong - 6 August 2023 |
 CCTCC riders at Mrs Macquarie's Chair - 30 July 2023 The appropriately named ride, with amazing commentary by Paul Murray, was cycled in unseasonably warm weather – 24°C. After a transport hiccup for the train travellers from the Central Coast we all met at Eddy Avenue just outside Central Station, and some enjoyed a coffee. Our comprehensive route took us up Oxford Street (LGBTQ friendly) to circle the National Art School, site of the former Darlinghurst Gaol where we learned of hangings and more. This area Darlinghurst/Surry Hills/Woolloomooloo was the patch of two ladies of ill repute – Tilly Devine and Kate Leigh. Both were leading figures in the razor gang wars 1927-1931. We continued discovering inner city terrace houses in sunny back lanes lined with potted plants. A circuit to Mrs Macquarie’s Point and a photo opportunity at her chair. Coffee was at a café opposite the brand new extension to the AGNSW. Cycling across the Domain past the Mitchell Library, Glenn had a puncture. The rest of us waited under shady trees by the Botanic Gardens. It was soon fixed and we mixed it with the crowds by Circular Quay, cycled under the Harbour Bridge and thence to Darling Harbour. After weaving our way past Crown Casino and Pyrmont we successfully avoided dog walkers, prams, small children and other hazards. There was no wait for a ferry from King Street Wharf to Milsons Point. There we caught the train northwards and home. 14 on the ride; 2 newbies, Suzanne and Tony. Many thanks to Michelle for sweeping and Paul Murray who led us expertly through busy Sunday crowds and for his well prepared history. Although only 25 kms we had a great day in the big city and learned lots about the early days of Sydney. Sue Paul left a record on Strava, showing he had cycled back to Central Station by a scenic route, adding 9km to his ride. Don't know if he had any other riders with him but I would expect so. Danny  Cahill Expressway, all riders bar Paul, plus new guys Tony and Suzanne - 30 July 2023 |
 At the start of the Tuggerawong Public Pathway, Prawn Beach Lane - 23 July 2023 Another beautiful wintry morning at Wyong, with 11 riders there for a pleasant ride to Norah Head for coffee. Unlike Friday's ride with the other club, which had 14 people of whom 12 were on e-bikes, today I was the only one one who didn't pedal every meter on my own efforts. Not sorry but! Well done this club! Starting at the new venue of Centennial Park at the toilets, we just headed down Panonia Road and Wolseley Avenue and Tuggerawong Rd to the little shopping centre at Wyongah where we had a short break. It was about 12°C at this stage, so we were glad we had all our winter woollies on. Over Toukley Bridge and up Main Street to Peel Street where we made a detour to avoid the traffic. On arrival at The Norah Head Coffee Haus, we were surprised to find nobody outside at the open-air tables, contrary to our expectations. Everybody was inside sheltering from the cold, even the OMCG riders who I must admit were quite well-behaved. We set up our own tables in the sunshine and enjoyed the coffee and delicious bakery produce which was delivered to us quickly. Everything was delicious, so I can't recommend this place enough. This is only a short ride (39km) but it was too cold to dilly-dally so we set off back the way we came, except we used the Tuggerah Lake edge instead of the Budgie Lake. Going along Main Street it seemed like the Bogans' Rally was out, with yelling and abuse emanating from cars as we rode along. Not nice you idiots! So we soon took a detour to the bridge and stayed on the footpath till we got to the Wallarah Bay Club, and never went back on that hostile territory. The Tuggerawong Pathway was a delight as usual, with quite a few people and dogs on it. Dachsunds seem very popular, as we saw about ten of the little snags in a few minutes at one stage. Glenn shot off elsewhere to scope out a ride at Warnervale while the rest of us finished our ride. Thanks everyone for coming, and Paul for sweeping up, and me for leading. A lovely Sunday morning as it usually is. Danny |
 About to head up Fernleigh Track - 16 July 2023 Not so cold when we gathered at Belmont, but cloudy and threatening, but we hardly copped any rain - just lucky! The paths were often wet so we could see we just missed a shower. Sixteen of us made the trip to Belmont, with Glenn leading and Sue sweeping up the tail. We're all in the photo above. Setting off up Fernleigh Track towards Adamstown with a mixture of e-bikes and mussel bikes, we soon were spread out along the track. Because of the rainy-looking weather, the traffic was light, which suited us. We had a re-group at Whitebridge, then set off again down to Adamstown end. I say 'down' as Whitebridge is supposed to be the high point, but it's debatable. On arrival at Adamstown we got a phone call from Annie to say the train was held up at Wyong, so we wandered over to Broadmeadow, and I think she arrived the same time as we did. So that made 16 of us. Glenn then led us through the delights of Newcastle with the exciting Throsby Creek and Waterfront precinct not disappointing. Didn't hang around much at Nobbys as the weather became quite unpleasant and we all put our jackets back on. Pressing on up the hill towards Bar Beach - quite tough on the pushbike riders but a cruise for the motorvated riders. Finally arriving at the excellent café at Bar Beach, we ordered our coffees and food and enjoyed a relaxing break with the best view ever. Annie had to go back to the station so we set off back to Broady to drop her off before we cycled back to Glebe Road to confront the traffic while trying to get across the road. Another re-group at the bottom of the Track before we got going again up the hill, through the tunnel and stopping again at Whitebridge. We soon were back at Belmont carpark and saying goodbye to face the drive home. Thanks everybody for coming, and thanks to Glenn, Sue and whoever else made the day a great success. Danny  Rugging up at Newcastle Beach as the weather tried to frighten us - 16 July 2023 |
 Re-group at the Jilliby school - 9 July 2023 Highly anticipated ride today, with Narelle and Michelle hosting our ride into the country-side, with m/t at Narelle's Farm. Eighteen riders after we picked up three more at Jilliby School, and continuing out along Jilliby Road to Durren Road where we turned right to get away from the traffic. This took us right into the bush with hardly any cars, to the other end of Durren Road. Turn left into Dicksons Road and follow that hilly narrow windy country road right out to Dooralong Road. I must say that the few mussel-bike riders had their work cut out, with many long and steep hills to negotiate. We e-bike riders appreciate how much hard work that is, having forsaken that leg-numbing and lung-straining effort for the comfort and delight of electric-powered riding. Well done all of you, especially the older ones - such dedication! With a stop at Mandolong Hall to recover, then counter-intuitively turning left into Mandolong Road and riding all the way out to Lemon Tree, then coming back to the hall, then riding along Jilliby Road for many kilometers, turning right into Little Jilliby Road which took us up to Narelle and Mike's delightful little farm where we had a feast of sweet and savoury home-made delights and coffee. After checking out the chooks and sheep and dogs and budgerigars, we finally headed back to Wyong. The Daleys monopolised the flat tyre department today, with John getting one in Hue Hue Road, and Annie copping one on her back wheel on Jilliby Road. She has her e-motor in the rear hub, making it more difficult for John to fix. Thanks Michelle and Narelle for leading the ride, and Anthony for sweeping up, and everyone else for just turning up, and Mike for getting all the tea stuff ready (I'm pretty sure he did that). Danny  Leaving Narelle and Mike's place in Jilliby - 9 July 2023 |
 CCTCC riding group at Monkey Farm, Martinsville - 2 July 2023 A beautiful winter day at Morisset rail station, with 19 riders joining the ride today. We got another one a bit later making maybe 20. I think. Sue and Steve looked after the ride, with Sue leading and Steve sweeping up, but he later pulled out due to illness, and Paul followed us home. This was a brand new ride, courtesy Graeme and Merrilyn who live at Cooranbong. First of all, out to Cooranbong along a beautiful bike path which we never knew about, through the Seventh Day Adventists (SDA) Ranch, which comes out opposite our favourite Coory café. Never set tyre on the roadway, so a good find. Then back towards Morry and turn right into Martinsville Road and out along that 10km lovely country lane to the end, at a place we have always called Monkey Farm, now we find out it's something different (Monkiet Farm?). Back down M'ville Road to Coory and into the Bakehouse for morning tea. Next we kept heading north but sooned turned off into an estate which surprised many of us, with many new houses and infrastructure, promising to be a beautiful place to live for many thousands of lucky people. Still only a few minutes from the M1 Motorway, so not isolated at all. We then made our way back to Freemans Road and into the SDA Estate and back along the nice bike/walking path to Morisset. I found a paddock full of lovely brown goats, which came running over to have their photos taken. About 38km only, but a very pleasant ride with friends, whom I haven't seen for 3 weeks, and a wonderful day out for a group of senior citizens. Next week's a good one too, with a ride to Jilliby with Michelle and coffee and cake at Narelle's place. Thanks to everyone today, esp. Sue and Steve, and Graeme and Mez for dreaming up the ride, and Paul for being such a great guy. Danny  See! It really is a paddock full of brown goats - 2 July 2023  Linda and Carol try out the facilities - 2 July 2023 |
 Lovely morning tea venue at The Little Coffee Pot, Davistown - 25 June 2023 What a lovely day for a ride. We started at Gosford with 11 riders then picked up Heiko to ride on to Woy Woy, then on to cross over the Rip Bridge where Heiko went the other direction. We all safely rode the roadways and back streets to eventually stop at the Little Teapot at Davistown for a lovely coffee stop. The lady is really welcoming and friendly and coffee and food came out very quickly. After coffee a ride through Davistown, Saratoga, Green Point and back to Gosford, all safe and sound with no upsets. Thanks all for the ride, great day. Jenny |
 Jenny's crew enjoying morning tea at Heatherbrae Pie Shop at Ourimbah - 18 June 2023 On a chilly, sunny morning nine of us met at Gosford for our President Jenny's Palmdale Circuit ride. With Col as sweep we narrowly avoided keen and sweaty runners on the Bay to Bay Running Festival. After tackling the hills of Gosford we followed the railway line north. Before cycling Enterprise Drive some of us stripped off a layer or two as we were hotting up. Our circuit continued through Chittaway and Tuggerah to the Heatherbrae pie shop. They were doing brisk business and we enjoyed good coffee and conversation. A couple of challenging hills on the return route to Gosford where the runners had now finished. A great ride and thanks to leader Jenny and sweep Col. 45kms in total and a good workout. Sue |
 Glenn and his group at Shelly Beach - 11 June 2023 Good to see so many riders (17) front for today's ride in such chilly conditions viz 10°C at 0900, at Wyong River. Otherwise the conditions were brilliant - no wind, no clouds... Glenn led this ride and Paulie looked after the back end, thanks you guys! Down Tuggerah Straight and on to Wyong Road, cross under the road bridge at Chittaway and on to Lakedge Avenue for miles and somehow we finished up at Shelly Beach, where we were only a few weeks ago, like 23 April. An interesting ride, where not many of us knew our exact location, which means we don't get bored. Once we reached the Shelly Beach kiosk things weren't quite as hectic as it was six weeks ago. Nikki was first in the queue, and I was 2nd, and everyone else behind me. Best of all, the almond croissant was a delight, not like the inedible cinder from last time. Even Carol chose one but couldn't eat it all. I offered to help her but she wanted to take it home for dinner. We went back a different way where we could, for variety, either that or Glenn couldn't remember which way to go, but I think the former. This included using Church and Lake Roads in Chittaway. We didn't have any hassles with car drivers, or punctures or accidents (I got into trouble for even mentioning them at the time). Once back at Wyong we all thanked the staff (Glenn and Paul) for such an enjoyable ride, and prepared to go home. I had ridden from Lake Haven, so Nikki accompanied me to Jensen Road to build up her distance (she had done only 36km, like the others), and we did a circuit of Kooinda Waters. I clocked up 63km by the time I got home, including Jensen Road and the Tuggerawong bike path. Nikki and I stopped at her favourite rusty shed in Jensen Road, and I stopped to take photos of a quartet of pretty goats in Braithwaite Drive. See you next week at Gosford for a spin around Brisbane Water with Roy. Danny  Nikki's photo - a selection of riders from today - 11 June 2023 |
 CCTCC on Tuggerawong pathway - 4 June 2023 Fourteen cyclists gathered at Wyong for today's ride around Tuggerah Lake. Weather was cloudy and mild, but it got just a bit colder as I was preparing to lock my car, so I put my jacket on, thanks heaven. It only got colder as we set off down Tuggerah Straight, and actually rained as we got to the other side of the lake. Wind was south-east at 15 knots. First stop at Bluebell Park. I kept the speed quite modest at about 20kmh, as there were a few push-bike riders in the group, including Peter and Cathy, who haven't ridden for a while, but everybody seemed happy with the pace. We took the Reliance Drive loop, and at Chittaway rode all the way to Enterprise Drive for a change, saving the loop under the road, then down to the bike path and wetland. Morning tea was at Euro Bean café and everything was superb - service, coffee, egg and bacon roll, highly recommended! A quick spin up Wilfred Barrett Drive before going through Toukley and back to the correct side of the water. We rode the full length of the new cycleway - a revelation for some who hadn't had the pleasure before. Then followed a short final cruise back to Centennial Park, Wyong, where we started. Thanks everybody for coming, and thanks to Marshall for doing his namesake's job at the back. Danny  Enjoying m/t at Euro Bean, Nikki's pic - 4 June 2023 |
 CCTCC ride group at Hidden Valley - 28 May 2023 A lovely clear sunny day: 7°C at Lake Haven at 8.00am, but a 15 knot nor-easter behind us to Hidden Valley. Andrew led us today, with a total of 17 riders. Good turn-up for such a cold day. My usually adequate gear was barely up to it today, especially the gloves which were still damp after Friday's soaking in the thunderstorm, but I survived, and it only got better as the day warmed up. A gentle ride up Tuggerah Straight and over Kangy Angy, where the usual cold spots were freezing this morning. Straight up to Ourimbah Creek Road (OCR), still in the shade, and west through the spectacular farmland to the end. Looking for friendly farm animals and not disappointed as the animal carers were at the usual spot, happy for me to take photos and cuddle the goats. Such a magic place, where I have taken many shots of all sorts of friendly animals, especially alpacas. Back down OCR to the nursery which was chock-a-block with Sunday traffic looking for coffee and muffins. Finally getting to the front of a long queue, only to be told there was an hour wait, so the people in front of me gave up in disgust and left, after waiting for 10 minutes. In fact, the coffees and muffins started arriving within minutes, and even my BLT took only 20 minutes. I've learnt to never believe wait times. We returned via Enterprise Drive, with a smooth run all the way back. At the bridge in Burns Road, where we passed a queue of cars waiting to get through, a freaky lady started telling Jenny she wasn't waiting for us to go past. We were stunned and couldn't care less, she was only the passenger! I rode from home, so while the others who drove, except maybe Josie, did 42km, I went home via Tacoma and the Tuggerawong scenic path, clocking up 68 for the day. Thanks for coming everyone, an enjoyable ride, and thanks to Andrew for leading and Heiko and Paul for sweeping up. Danny  Charming farm lass with hand-reared kid - 28 May 2023 |
 Our first stop, at New Scenic Path, Rocky Point - 21 May 2023 A cool but fine morning at Wyong, where eleven members gathered for our ride to Lakes Beach, then back via San Remo and Wadalba. We took the 'river' road down to Rocky Point, then Palmer Street to the start of the new bike path, where the photo above was taken. Lovely riding conditions, about 12°C, with a breeze of 21 - 25 knots NW all day. We were all rugged up, but some people have different thermostats. Our leader, Paul (surname withheld), in his briefing said Coffee at Lakes Beach, which is the name of the ride. After we reached Toukley Bridge, we took the Peel Street loop before heading down Budgewoi Road, but Paul took the old road and bike path apparently to make the ride more interesting. For some reason he kept going along the path well past the café and didn't stop till we had crossed the bridge at Budgewoi, so no going back. He said he always intended to go to Northlakes for coffee, despite all the other indicators. We were fine with that, but our friend Nikki was waiting for us at Lakes for an hour and a quarter. She was not so fine, sorry Nikki! Morning tea at La Macchina was excellent, as always. We soon set off back to Wyong, via the Warnervale Wetlands. Linda and I left early as we had already ridden from home, so I hope they got back alright. Thanks for leading the ride, Paul, and John for sweeping. The pace was a cracker, with 25kmh often maintained (mussell bikes at the front), and 54kmh down Marks Road hill (me). Thanks everyone for coming, a top day! Danny  Another stop at Buff Point, Lakedge Park - 21 May 2023 |
 Jenny's photo of the ride, Tuggerah Lake, Long Jetty - 14 May 2023 What a beautiful day for a ride! Glenn led 10 riders to The Entrance, a few back streets to mix it up and make it a little interesting. Coffee at a few different cafés as nowhere to seat so many on Mothers Day. Rod left us there to ride home, Anne took his place after catching up with us for coffee. Jenny and Paul swept, thanks to all who turned up, it was a very nice ride. Jenny |
 Morning tea at Umina SLSC - 7 May 2023 Nine of us signed on at Gosford Sailing Club with three more joining us at Umina SLSC for coffee. Jenny was our leader as well as being our presidente. Let me tell you about the weather: At home, sunny, cold but promising to improve. But at Gosford it was freezing, viz about 12°C and dark clouds. It hardly rained but it didn't get much warmer either, max 14°C, so having worn minimal clothing I was freezing, and stayed that way till after I got home, T-shirt, club shirt, vest and all my really warm stuff at home. Would have been much worse if it had rained! Quite a few people on the paths to Woy Woy, but after that we had them to ourselves (the paths). Much too adverse for all but the keenest runners and dog-walkers. At Umina we were joined by Jane, Annie and Paulie, none of whom we see often. Lovely m/t. It was a bit early to have an egg and bacon roll, but I had one anyway. I was late turning on my Strava, and very late turning it off (when I got home with 80km on it) so I discarded the record. But about 37km. Roy rode from Wyoming so had more distance, good on him. I told Jenny I was too cold, so would go faster on the way back, so she upped the speed from 18-20 to about 23, thanks Jenny! As we reached Gosford the weather improved markedly, with sun shining on us at the end. Still very cold but! Although it was a cold bleak day it was still better than sitting at home doing nothing. Thanks everyone for coming, thanks Jenny for leading us, and John and Martin for sweeping. John lives near Umina so didn't come with us for the return trip. Danny  Quick break at Woy Woy on the way back - 7 May 2023 |
 Quiet contemplation at Blacksmiths Beach - 30 April 2023 Despite all the rain in other areas, there was none on our ride today, just some clouds but mostly sunny, with a cool breeze. Glenn led us out this morning, with suitably-attired Marshall looking after the tail end (lovely Hi-vis vest on, see photo above). Thirteen riders altogether, mostly, as Jenny and Josie had a bad start at home, not even getting the car started, till a visit from the NRMA, so started at Belmont. Danny was late at Broadmeadow too, after using his GPS to find the suburb, but not knowing where the railway station was. We did see a beautiful big steam train while we were waiting. Not quick enough to get a picture though. Just realised that the Maitland Steam Fest was on today, so it was probably part of that. A pleasant ride through Broadmeadow and Adamstown, amazingly not a car to be seen at Glebe Road, our usual fraught crossing spot. Up to the Fernleigh Track, then a quick spin down to Whitebridge for a re-group, then continue down to Belmont Station before carefully making our way down to Blacksmiths Beach where these photos were taken. We met Josie and Jenny coming up the track, not sure they rode all the way back to Broady, but a good effort from them, especially Giuseppina on her pushbike. Not far then to the Bakers Den for coffee and a totes delicious curried lamb pie, for me anyway. Never been here before but well worth a visit. Then a nice ride back to Whitebridge for a rest and continuing on to Broady (we always used to say that for Broadmeadows in Melbourne). Some guys had their cars and some caught a train. The train costs $2.50, and my car cost me about $25, but quicker and more convenient. Just sayin'. Thanks everyone for coming on such a beautiful day, and especially Glenn for taking us. Danny  Happy riders at the Blacksmiths SLSC - 30 April 2023 |
 Relaxing at Batto Bay Lookout - 23 April 2023 Rain forecast, not that this club worries about such a thing, cloudy and a SE breeze, 5 knots at 0900, to 23 knots at noon, but mostly around 15. It never rained at all, but the strong wind at noon had us breaking out the rain jackets at Shelly Beach before our trip back north. The best aspect was a tail-wind going back to Wyong. Seventeen riders, with Glenn leading, and Col sweeping on the first leg and Michelle on the way back. A very good turn-up for the club, thank you everyone! A very interesting route, a bit different through the back streets to Batto Bay, and I think Glenn was the only one who knew where we were all the time. Nikki had a nasty puncture at the halfway point, meaning she didn't have coffee with the rest of us, instead getting filthy messing about with her back wheel. I think she had some help, but as she ordered her coffee at the Shelly Beach café, we all shot through (with her blessing). She then rode home and got her husband to take her back to Wyong for her car. In fact it was already gone by the time we got back there. The temperature was quite mild all day, just the dreaded wind-chill got us. As we left Shelly Beach café, I was delayed putting on my water-proof pants and Michelle and I were there alone, not knowing which way everyone had gone. Col was waiting for us on the exit to the carpark, but we still didn't know where they all were, so I just went the way we always go with the Toukley Club and we found them all down near The CC Hwy. A very enjoyable outing, thanks everyone for coming. Of course we didn't go to Crackneck as it was closed for renovation, but we hid our disappointment well. Danny  A peaceful scene at Batto Bay toilets - 23 April 2023 |
 Everybody except Pedro at the Warnervale Wetlands - 16 April 2023 I (Danny) was leading today's ride, so I drove to Wyong, as to ride there would result in a 78km day out. When I got to Wyong I unloaded my bike from my truck and turned it on, only to find the battery totally dead. I rode it anyway aound to the Centennial Park and broke the sad news that I would be unable to lead the ride. Jenny, our president, volunteered to lead, then along came Paulie who seemed like a natural fit to lead the ride. Meanwhile, Pedro had called to say he would join us at the southern end of the new bike-path, at Palmer Street, Rocky Point. Nobody told Paul about this arrangement so he blithely led everyone past the turnoff, leaving Peter to ride the bike path at full pelt to catch them up somewhere. Anyway, they all met up and continued on to the Gorokan Peace Park (GPP) next to Toukley Bridge. In the meantime, I had hurried home and changed batteries (I was using the one out of my old written-off bike) and headed off down to GPP to try to intercept the group. While I was waiting, after establishing that they were still on their way, a lady from the art gallery there asked me if I was waiting for the group of cyclists she had seen at Marks Road. She said they were very well-behaved and they all had mirrors on their bikes! Very impressed! Anyway, we finally all met up, and I resumed the leadership duties. Riding east along Main Road, we took the Peel St detour for safety's sake. I have to cut this bit short as I have used nearly all my words on my mksadvdentures, sorry, misadventures. Down to Budgewoi, did I mention what a beautiful day it finally turned out to be, and up Lizzie Bay Drive to the Pacific Hwy. I must say how impressed I was with the number of riders who turned up on a cloudy spitting day, amazing! Visit Josh Porter Reserve, then back to the Highway and down to Doyalson, then San Remo and into the Northlakes shopping centre, to my favourite café, La Macchina Espresso (Makkina). Service was excellent, except they got Paul's order wrong (banana bread, not toasted but with butter), and my chicken caesar wrap was nice except for the chicken bit which was inedible. Luckily I had also ordered an almond croissant, so I didn't starve. Finally back on the road, over the bridge and headed towards Bunnings where we turned right into Chelmsford Road. Pedro had left us at Northlakes to ride home via Bugewoi. Then a pleasant ride through the wetlands on interesting paths, where we took the photo above. Right on Warnervale Road and left on Minnesota Road and I'm pretty sure you can guess the rest. After we had arrived back at Wyong Bridge and had a brief de-briefing, I then had to ride back home, but my distance was about the same as everyone else's, about 54km, but Pedro's was 60. A very enjoyable ride, recovering well from a fraught start, thanks everyone for coming. Thanks to Paul for taking over the lead for a while. Next week Crackneck Coo-ee. See you there. Danny  Taking over the carpark at Northlakes - 16 April 2023 |
 John at the hairpin on his uninterrupted ride up Mt Ettalong - 9 April 2023 Mild, cloudy, breezy (20kt W) and fine were the conditions this morning at Gosford waterfront. Six keen members, little Josie and five big boofheads, with Andrew leading and Martin sweeping up. So that breeze was in our faces all the way down to Pearl Beach, and behind us coming back. Andrew had his e-mtb, but only switched it on up the hills, and the others bar Martin and me were pushing the pedals. John was especially strong, riding up Mt Ettalong without stopping. Josie wisely decided not to ride over the mountain, and Martin stayed with her at Umina Beach till we came back. A Saturday market was swinging at Umina - full of happy holiday-makers. Pearl Beach was a bit quieter, not even a queue at the take-away counter. Excellent food and coffee at the shop too. Col did very well too, keeping up most of the time without battery power. John opted for the cliff-route going back. He had nothing to prove either, at 81. We joined up with Josie and Martin again and rode back to Woy Woy via the Rip Bridge (under it not over). Josie chose to finish her trip on a train, with all our blessings. Made it back to Gosford without incident, thanks everyone for helping. Our total distance was about 50km, though by the time I turned my Strava off at home it said 96, which confirms the correct figure. See you all next week at Wyong for my ride to Chain Valley Bay. Danny  Enjoying a well-earned coffee at Pearl Beach - 9 April 2023 |
 Lake Burley Griffin near the Carillon - 27 March 2023 First of all I must acknowledge Sue and Steve for conceiving and executing this wonderful holiday. Their knowledge of Canberra and all the cycling opportunities was excellent. About 22 people came to ride or join in, with most rides having 18 riders. Day 1 - Sunday 26 March, a ride was scheduled for the afternoon, giving everyone time to travel down and settle in. With only the afternoon available, the ride was just to Queanbeyan for a look, then back to the Southside Holiday Park (SHP), at 250 Canberra Avenue, Symonston. The ride was only 20km, but a pleasant way to get the show on the road. We finished up having a barbecue at the campgrounds - a very enjoyable and delicious choice. Day 2 Monday 27 March - A bigger ride today, 53km, in cool and cloudy weather, Bolting to Belco. By-the-way, Sue led all these rides, and Steve swept up the rear. Eighteen of us again rode up to Kingston and anti-clockwise around the East Basin, then staying on the north side of LBG through Parkes to Civic and north through busy roads. Steve had a flat but managed to catch up to Sue, from the back, to ask her to wait, which she very kindly did. After a tiny piece of wire was extracted from his tyre. we continued north through Turner, O'Connor, Lawson, around Lake Gininderra to Belconnen. We found a very nice food court and had lunch. Got going again, heading south towards Kingston, via Parkes Way, on the north side of LBG, to Kings Avenue Bridge, where we crossed the lake and arrived back at SHP. When we got back to the cabins, Lynnie had a flat too, also a tiny bit of wire, which I fixed, while giving a lesson in the procedure. A very enjoyable and satisfying ride, thanks Sue and Steve! We had a night out at the famous Kingston Hotel, with amazing food and atmosphere. Parking was a problem though - I had to finish up parking at my niece's driveway, 500 meters away, and made all my passengers walk with me back to the car afterwards. Day 3 Tuesday 28 March - Something completely different today, a nice cycle, then a boat ride around the lake! Just under 40km ride, a/c around LBG then back to the International Flags Precinct, in front of the High Court, to find our ferry. Starting the ride with a loop around the east basin again, we cycled right around the lake before meeting up with our boat, the MV Southern Cross, an all-electric vessel so no diesel smoke. All 18 of us squeezed on board for an informative journey through slightly choppy water for an hour or so. The skipper gave us an insight into many facts lost in the mists of time, and Sue's son Sam, a local resident, gave the official travelogue in a very professional manner. His lovely GF Hannah looked after our bikes while we were sailing the seas. Day 4 - A wet one today, but we had been very lucky not to get wet on the other days. Our desination was Woden, but it was pouring before we even got started. Never-the-less, fourteen riders made the effort. Solid rain as we rode straight up to Kingston, and along the southern shore of LBG. Past Yarralumla till we got to a point in an open paddock where we had a re-think. Finally, Sue, Marshall and one other decided to finish the ride, and off they went in the rain, while Carol took the rest of us back to Commonwealth Avenue Bridge, crossing to the north side, and back to the other side at Kings Ave and only stopping when we reached a posh café for lunch and coffee, at the Kingston Wetlands Complex. Four of us had the Almond Croissants! Pedro took us the final leg home, taking a scenic route through the wetlands. That was the end of our holiday, and some people went straight home that afternoon, even though they had paid for another night. A few of us stayed, and had a bonza night at the Monaro Tavern, on site, before hitting the kapok to be refreshed before the long drive home. Actually, not that far home. Many thanks to others who helped, like Glenn and Sue, and Jenny, and Carol, and Pedro.. This report is reproduced on the CCTCC Group page, along with many photographs of interest. Danny  Happy holiday-makers enjoying the trip on Lake Burley Griffin - |
 Fair weather at Berkeley Vale - 2 April 2023 Four not-so intrepid riders at Wyong Centennial Park this morning - Linda, who rode from home, Danny, same, Glenn and Sue who drove from home. Weather was overcast, a bit cool, and thundery. I decided to stick it out, while the others went home for fear of getting drowned. Acting as ride leader, péloton and sweep, I headed off towards Tuggerah. It was surprisingly mild and cruisy, if cool on my neck, but I perservered and enjoyed the ride. At Berkeley Vale I took a photo, then continued around the lake. At Long Jetty I took a short detour to the Hemp Shop to get some hemp seed oil, arriving at 10.00 o'clock just as the lady opened the shop door. I then continued my circuit of Tuggerah Lake, not stopping for anything till I got home - an easy and enjoyable ride. I had lunch and a coffee, after completing a mere 45km in 2.5 hours. No rain at all and nil hassles. Sorry no-one came with me. Danny |
 Remaining 5 riders in Footts Road, Palmdale - Front Elevation A very hot day was forecast, so I decided during the night that I wouldn't go on this ride, but at 7.20am I changed my mind and bounded out of bed, had breakfast, loaded the bike and drove to Gosford, getting there at 8.55am. I warned the leader that I was coming and to wait for me, which they did. I usually allow 2 hours for this start. Looking for Jenny, but apparently she was on other duties, so we just had Paulie. Also Roy, two guys called John, Colin (sweep), Anthony, and Greg. Eight of us. Off we went, having already decided not to do the planned ride along Enterprise Drive and back over Kangy Angy (I predicted that change owing to the excessive heat forecast for the day 35°C). Just ride to the Palmdale Crematorium and back to the Heatherbrae Pie Shoppe. As it turnd out we took OCR (Ourimbah Creek Road) and Footts Road to make up some distance, but as it was we still only did 38km. As we got to the Gosford Rail, where no trains were, just buses, Paul decided to go through the underground carpark, which is usually safer, and easier, and come out at the station. However, since any of us had been there, management has put in toll gates at the entrance and exit, so you have to pay now. They open automatically then close again, this time on Greg's head, causing him to fall to his knees and scrape the skin off them. He struggled on for a while, but left us further up the road and go home for medical attention. We took a nice photo at Palmdale, then continued on to the pie shop, where we had a nice feed and good coffee. On the way back we went through the cemetery, where the sad sight of two teen-aged girls buried there in 1954, probably because of polio. We started to lose members as they went straight home, and only 5 of us made it back to Gosford. It only got to 30°C and was quite bearable. So glad I had a Damascene moment and made the effort to come. Thanks to everyone for coming, a very pleasant ride! Danny  Front Elevation - Detail - 19 March 2023 |
| Thursday 16 March 2023 - Thursday Ride Nice easy ride today to Umina, but did get very hot so we cut the coffee break short and we were back by 12. Glenn came to the rescue of a lady with a shredded car tyre. He stopped and changed it for her, thanks Glenn such a thoughtful man. Jenny |
 All riders coming back from Y'malong, except Danny, behind the camera - 12 March 2023 Only eight riders presented at Wyong for our ride to Yarramalong, a bit disappointing, but we enjoyed ourselves never-the-less. Roy was our guide, and had recced the ride during the week, and was able to confirm that, apart from a few big holes, the road was in good condition, with old potholes filled with new bitumen recently. The weather was warm and sticky, cloudy and fine. Anthony did the tailgunner's job in fine style, warning us of vehicles approaching from behind. Usually I insist on stopping to take photos of nice animals, but there were very few, so there are no such photos. The road was very busy as is usually the case on Sundays, with utes and motorbikes, and cars, but all very well-behaved, thank you drivers! At Yarramalong during the week, Roy came to the conclusion that the servie station was closed, not open for business. We could have thought the same today, but then we saw a sliver of light, with a solitary shop-keeper inside, with coffee for sale but little else. So we got our hot drinks. which weren't too bad, and had a good chat about our travels, and our health. Funny thing for old people to be talking about, eh! On our way back, which was helped by being mostly downhill, we saw the Turf Farm coffee shop, and realised that's where we should go next time. The ride was easy on our Easy-bikes, and well-done by the pushbike riders, especially by Roy, who, at his age, is a credit to abstinence, dedication and a monastic life. Thanks everyone for coming, and to Roy and Anthony for looking after us. Danny  Danny, not photoshopped in, instead of Carol. - 12 March 2023 |
 Everybody at Bluebell Park - 5 March 2023 We had 9 starters at Wyong for our “easy” first ride of the new month (and the first ride of the Autumn season). It was a pleasure to welcome a couple of rarely-seen faces today, Adrian and Tony. Paul was sporting his new TREK bike which has replaced the one sadly misappropriated (read pinched) while he was away on his nautical adventures. Paul apologised in advance and said, sorry the bike’s rather heavy and I won’t be going fast. Don’t worry, we said, we’ll cope. With Paul in the lead and Steve as sweep we set off along Gavenlock Road, through Bunnings carpark, and on to the back roads through to Wyong Road. Paul actually set quite a brisk pace, and the sweep could barely keep up. We paused at Bluebell for a wee break (see photo by Nicolette), and Paul apologised again and said he hadn’t got a speedo and didn’t realise how fast he was going. On the lake path he had to slow down a little, but the back markers were still falling behind. It was no matter because it gave us all a better work out than we were expecting. We arrived at The Entrance and headed for the coffee shop on the corner, the Euro Bean. It was seriously busy and the coffee took quite a while. We were impressed by the diligence (if not the efficiency) of the staff who were operating flat out. The coffee turned out to be on the weak side, so maybe the Beans were in short supply. We were entertained by the youngest rock band ever, average age about ten. They were surprisingly good. Then it was back on the bikes for the trip home, this time with Col as the sweep. We used the classic route around the lake, then Aston Wilde Road, then Reliance Drive and on to the Tuggerah Straight. It was warming up by this stage, up to 31°C, so it was a good time to finish. Total 38km, and a good time was had by all. Our thanks to Paul for leading. Steve |
 Intrepid crew at Soldiers Beach - 26 February 2023 Sunday's ride to Soldiers beach via Budgewoi. Paul leading and Colin & Greg sweeping. Weather was good, started to get a bit hot midday. We rode from Wyong to Toukley down The Corso to the Budgewoi Lake cycleway. Some sections need work and we were diverted to the road towards the end. Then on to Lakes Beach for lunch. Service was good and the coffee & food. Thereafter we rode down to Soldiers beach as seen on the photo. Then we returned down Canton Beach to Toukley, then as we rode the dippers [Marks Rd] Greg got a flat so we waited, but some people needed to get home so they headed off while we waited for Greg. Then headed off down the new cycleway back to the start and at the finish poor Greg had another puncture - 3 that day! A bit of bad luck Greg! I take it they all enjoyed the ride as we rode 56km. Good going everyone and thanks for the company. Paul |
 Roy and his crew at Davistown - 19 February 2023 Nineteen members gathered at the play equipment at Gosford sailing club this morning. Roy was the leader and that guy on the left of the picture was our sweep. Weather was warm and cloudy and it did try to rain a couple of times during the ride, but failed. A good mix of e-bikes and real bikes, and we all looked after each other. After an uneventful trip down to Woy Woy we had a break, and spied Annie riding along Brick Wharf Road, but she didn't seem interested in joining us. We then set off for Rip Bridge, which would have made a wonderful photo, but I missed the opportunity. Just add that to all the other MOs. Roy took us the traditional route which involved all the little detours, on grass and tracks, which a few of us hadn't seen before. The sweep and Rod got way behind at one stage, so I waited for them, a risky plan as I still don't know the way through all those back roads after all these years. I did try to lead them astray, but our sweep remembered the way and got us back on track. Have I mentioned The Little Teapot Café, at Davistown, recently? New owners, and they have gone to great lengths to make everything nice for cyclists, eg new bike racks, even though they are a bit tight for big fat e-bike tyres. We got a table out in the garden with enough room for everyone except Rod, who had to sit on his own adjacently. I had a smoked salmon croissant which was magnifique! This is quite a long ride, so I'm keeping it short. My back tyre started to go down, which I attributed to a puncture which I had last week. Very slow, so I put more CO2 in it which got me back to the car, but it was dead flat by the time I got home. Anthony won the race along Avoca Drive, but he's younger than everyone else. A very enjoyable ride, no dramas or punchers, well done everyone. Thanks to our staff and well-behaved crew. Danny  Everybody except Nikki and Rod (see more pix on FB) 19 February 2023 |
 On the magnificent Lake Pathway, Tuggerawong - 12 February 2023 Already quite warm at 0900 at Wyong, with a top of 27°C forecast. Michelle leading, and Sue and Paul sweeping up, thanks chaps! Seventeen riders, including Carol who caught up eventually. The usual route for Michelle, Pollock Avenue to Jensen Road, then along Tuggerawong Road to Toukley Bridge. Save the bike path for the way back. Over Toukley Bridge and right at The Beachcomber but then a novel route - out of the caravan park, RIGHT onto Evans Road and all the way to the end, and then the bush bike path to Wilfred Barrett Drive (WBD). Hardly ever done that way before, but a good variation adding a couple of kms to a shortish ride. North on WBD to Norah Head and coffee at the newly-managed café, now called the (can't remember) where we enjoyed a nice cuppa and an almond croissant or something similar. Straight back to the Roller Coaster (didn't look for Molly the cat) and down to the long-awaited scenic new path by the lake, where we took some more photos. It was then time for me to go home, like Linda and Carol before me. I clocked up 55km with the extra ride to Wyong and detour to the path on the way home (see photo above). The basic ride was about 44km. Thanks everyone for coming. Danny  Time to say goodbye to Danny and Carol - 12 February 2023 |
 Greg with some of his loyal retinue, outside the Pam Stringer Memorial Toilet Block - An early start this morning, not without incident, with Nikki being 2 minutes late, and Paul starting at the wrong end. Seven of us at Wyong Centennial Park, picking up Nikki, Paulie and Andrew on the way. Lovely cool morning (17°C) gradually getting warmer as the sun rose. Not much traffic on the paths or roads, but the sun shining in our eyes made it hard to see the way. No dramas or incidents, just the way we like it. After a superb brekkie at Euro Bean café we split up somewhat, with Nikki going straight home nearby, me going up WBD on a shortcut, and possibly some others, like Carol or Adrian, if they rode to the start, or train. So I can only go on the Strava reports to see what happened after I left, but I think that after a quick detour around Toowoon Bay, Greg took them back to the lakeside path for the trip to Wyong, maybe after a spin along Church and Lake Roads and the sports field. Let me know if I'm wrong. On second thoughts, don't. Thanks everyone for coming - a special ride! Thanks also to Greg and Carol for sweeping up. Danny  Nikki's photo at the Euro Bean café - 5 February 2023 |
 Morning coffee at Umina SLSC - 2 February 2023 A small group enjoyed Thursday's social ride. Ably led by Colin swept by Greg. Anthony (in the white shirt), a new rider joined us - we used to fly paragliders together. It was great that Heiko, Annie and Jane joined us at Umina. Heiko still struggling with moving house. Greg |
 All today's riders outside Barry's house - 29 January 2023 Beautiful summer's day with clouds, no wind, no rain, lots of humidity and heat (100% and 30°C respectively). Eleven riders fronted, with Jenny leading, and John H sweeping up on the way out, and Michelle on the way back. Danny and Barry rode from home, so disappeared on the way back to Wyong. Jenny varied the route by heading towards Toukley via Jensen Road for its whole length, then along our old favourite, Cadonia Road. We took the detour around Peel Street to reduce our exposure to Main Road, before resuming our trip to Budgewoi. I know, it's a bit past Lakes Beach, but well-worth the extra distance for safety and variety's sake. The café was quite crowded, but we all managed to find a seat. Coffee was up to its fine standard. We found Angela and Chris, from Toukley club, who had been on a little sprint in the hot weather. Steve had a puncture, a nasty little glassy knoll! There was a lovely sea breeze to keep us from overheating, although the guys on the puncture duty were soaked in sweat. That's our first puncture in either club for a few days. We hadn't taken any photos yet, so we squeezed a couple in, at Barry's place and on the Tuggerawong pathway. Baz was already home, so went indoors, and I banged off a couple of shots on the path, as did Nikki, then I rode home for a total of 60km. The basic ride was 45km, perfect for a hot day. Thanks Jenny for a great ride, and thanks to everyone for coming. My idea of a pleasant Sunday activity! Next week is a Breakfast Ride, from Centennial Park in Wyong. Danny  Most of our riders at Tuggerah Lake bike path (no, I'm not photoshopped in) - 29 January 2023 |
 Andrew and his crew trying to cross Narara Valley Way (photo by Greg) - 22 January 2023 After spitting rain all night, the weather eased off enough to get some of us out of bed, then continued raining lightly most of the day. Five keen riders fronted at Gosford, with Andrew leading and Greg volunteering to sweep up. The others were Sue, Roy and me (Danny). Somebody queried whether we really wanted to ride in such weather, till I pointed out that between us we had driven about 200km to be there, and the same to get home. And the reputation of the club was at stake. Everyone agreed. With everyone decked out in proper rain-gear, we set off to the north through the wilds of Gosford and Narara. Everyone but me was on a push-bike, even Roy at 86 years old, so I didn't have any come-back about my age being an excuse for battery assistance. The rain was quite light all morning, so no-one would have been inconvenienced. Puddles everywhere, but we rode slowly through them, and saved our feet from getting too wet. Up at Lisarow, where the new bridge is under construction (nearly finished), we rode through the cemetery thus avoiding any danger from traffic. Same way coming back too. At Ourimbah Creek Road we had a discussion about our next leg - up to Hidden Valley, or just up Footts Road to Palmdale, and back along the highway? Andrew liked the latter idea, so off we went through a little paradise of quiet farmland and sleepy crematoria. Back at Lee Rowans, we found plenty of seating at the café and selected a nice outside seat (as always). We had a surprise visit by Colin, there with his girlfriend, but we didn't meet her. Cherry strudels were a popular taste treat, with Andrew scoffing down a French vanilla slice with a fork 'n' spoon. We soon headed back to Gosford, taking almost the same route. There was a lot of traffic, but we managed to avoid hitting it. Thanks everyone for coming out today in the circs, especially Sue with about 200km under her belt for the round trip. Thanks to Andrew and Greg for their support, and for the extra photos Greg. More photos on our Group FB Page here. Danny  Friendly horses on Footts Road, Palmdale - 22 January 2023 |
 Everybody at La Macchina. Wish I was there! - 15 January 2023 After our usual start at Wyong, we cycled part way around Tuggerah Lake, crossed the bridge at Gorokan and continued to circumnavigate Budgewoi Lake. En route we took a diversion to Northlakes Shopping Centre, San Remo, for coffee and food at Danny’s favourite café. After lunch we used the Budgewoi Lake new western extension which will eventually go to Tacoma. Seventeen of us started, with Paul a late arrival. Greg peeled off half way. Glenn was leader and our two sweeps were Greg and Jenny. Distance 51kms on a sunny summer’s day. A great workout, thanks to our leader and sweeps. Sue  Nikki and Steve at San Remo - 15 January 2023 |
 Only Paul, Annie and Greg missing from this group photo - 8 January 2023 Beautiful weather for the sixteen riders that came along for Greg's version of Umina-for-coffee. There were a few where-are-we-going questions but generally the riders enjoyed the mostly flat ride. Our coffee stop was very busy but also very efficient. We quickly had our orders filled and with the sea breeze and good company it was hard to get moving again. Rod got a flat but was quickly fixed with Michelle doing a great job of sweep, I got a message from Jenny alerting me to the delay. One pedestrian took exception to so many of us riding on their footpath, other than that a delightful day. Greg |
For previous reports contact the webguy. |