Reefton Spur via Cockatoo Sunday 27^th August, 2006

Honda CBR1000	Paul Southwell	Suzuki GSXR1000	Lyn Duncan
Honda CBR1000	Ian Payne (1^st rear)	Suzuki Bandit 1200	Ron Johnston
Honda CBR1000	Joel Haley (last ride)	MV Augusta 750 SPR	Dave Ward
Honda CBR954	Breht Emmerson (leader)	Kawasaki ZX6	Paul Glowacki (1^st ride)
Honda CBR954	Ben Warden	Kawasaki ZX9	Cameron stevens
Honda CBR600	Paul Punicki	Yamaha R6	Eric Makin
13 bikes, 13 people		Yamaha TRX850	Tony Raditsis (2^nd rear)

Firstly, I have to make a big apology to Breht, because I haven’t done justice to his fantastic ride, by not doing the write-up straight away. He puts in a huge, conscientious effort, and pre-rides each of his rides (even though he lives in the area) which are always so perfectly, meticulously arranged. His care and attitude is greatly appreciated.

On the day in question we met at Yarra Glen, with a good turnout, Ben blowing us all away, turning up on a new machine.

I was worried about the possibility of a bit of snow on the road over the Reefton at this time of year. But all the roads turned out dry, except for 3 km of slippery dirt on Don Road that Breht warned us of. I stayed out of the action pretty much all day again, disappointingly, not really matching anyone. But I am still carrying an injury, so I figure I’m doing well just getting through the day and having my own good time.

With cars flashing before we even start climbing out of Yarra Glen, we head towards Christmas Hills, very sedately, heeding all the flashes. We turned off to Panton Hill and St. Andrews and then up the twisties to Kinglake before noticing anything untoward. Through to Toolangi and down Chum Creek Road, meandering through the back roads of Healesville and on to Don Road. The worry about the mud was for nothing. I had pictured myself in all sorts of trouble. Not so.

This next part of the ride took in a grouse bit of road between Launching Place and Gembrook. I’m certain I haven’t been on it before. The last section has recently been sealed with a little gravel leftover, but still great fun. Joel whipped past, enjoying that new front rubber.

Morning tea at Emerald, where we say goodbye to Ian who, thank you, has been filling rear rider duties yet again. Dave leaves us as well, work duties pressing.

Next the Macclesfield Road where I unintentionally slot in behind Eric on his beautiful, new R6. It has braided brake lines, wave discs, aftermarket callipers, a steering damper and endless other bits, really looking showy and individual. Eric had brought his mate Paul along for the fun, riding a ZX6R. This interesting road took us back to Woori Yallock and on to Healesville for quick fuel up. Paul bailed with other commitments and Ben headed home with his chain slapping at the swingarm. The rest of us headed off through the Black Spur to Marysville for lunch.

Joel is on his last club ride before heading north to see what’s out there. I wish him all the best. He has been such a big part of the Club for the last two years; he will be missed. Joel’s not coming through the Reefton with us. I think he is actually loading up and heading off today.

At the other end, Eric and Paul decide to head back across the Reefton. It seems like a fantastic idea, but the rest of us go back around Riverside Drive to Warburton and breakup at Launching Place.

Another great day. Thanks everyone.

Lyn Duncan