Porepunkah 26^th December 2009 to 1^st January 2010

The thrill of Porepunkah returns slowly, a smile and a feeling of wonderful deja vu as we ascend Mount Buffalo - it's a ritual upon arrival, at the end of every ride day and upon departure - an act of respect and appreciation for its existence. 

Everyday is a great riding experience - Tawonga Gap, Mt Beauty, Falls Creek, Happy Valley, Tallangatta - challenging, unrelenting twisties, joyous sweepers, combined with the happy faces of our riding team all makes it so good. 

On the return to our camp after a hot day's ride a dip in the river feels like heaven... but can't stay too long - time for our Mt Buffalo evening ride and then dinner to follow.  BBQ usually the way to go - yummy trout by Julie Warden (many thanks x), gourmet sausages and salad by John and Kate (much appreciated) and a great fix of iron with Misho's steak - excellent! 

One memorable afternoon was spent lazily sitting (on completion of day's ride) near the riverside with friends; Chris and Suzi providing a touch of luxury with some chilled white wine and gourmet sweet chilli chips... hmmm, so nice... even managed to glance over Saturday's "Age" newspaper lying about for a touch of intellectual stimulation.  Life is good...

But the stay all too short; neither Misho or I want to leave; only the rain provided us with the incentive to pack up. 

Once in Melbourne... withdrawal symptoms start to set in; not even the MSR Sunday ride quite does it - thanks for trying, Ben. Nothing matches up to those magnificent roads surrounding Porepunkah.  Ah well, only 360 more days to go and we're back for more - yeah!

Pina Garasi