We had over 20 people come out to enjoy the branch president’s pre-Christmas BBQ ride to Coolart Homestead. 

The weather (quite windy) wasn’t conducive to taking a walk to the beach, however the Homestead was open for visitors and that made for a very enjoyable excursion once all the riding, chatting and consuming had been done.

Brian had to abdicate from leading the ride due to a knee issue.  Pat stepped in as ride leader using Brian’s GPX files to help navigate and in his briefing assured and that navigation hiccups would be Brian’s fault!

Tez took on TEC duty and we all rode off from Lilydale, turned right past the shire offices and then used assorted back roads

through to Wandin, Yellingbo

and Beaconsfield Upper before passing through Officer and south to Tooradin.   All went perfectly, great route and scenery with minimal traffic hassles.

I think we had a minor navigation glitch

just before Hastings, but that possibly was a planned comfort stop

via dirt road!  As we approached Hastings, we were confronted with a roadblock which made plan “A” null and void!   A complete loop was done of the roundabout and we pulled up in safe places in two separate groups and somehow communication failed and the group split. 

All but one of us (whose phone failed), made our way to the destination at Coolart Homestead, where we were greeted by the advance guard who already had food cooked and ready and waiting for us.  

After that we had plenty to talk about and the appropriate amount of ribbing was done.  Tez confirmed he did a great job as TEC despite losing ¾ of the group. It certainly wasn’t his fault (probably mine for stopping at the wrong spot near the roadblock) but opportunities for banter should never be ignored.

I will no doubt miss someone, but mention must go to Brian for organising, Barry, Graham and John for getting supplies to Coolart and cooking and those who cleaned up afterwards including Holly, Kris and Suzanne.  Pat for leading the ride and Tez for being TEC.  Thanks to Jack for the group photo.  Also, thanks to Kris, my pillion for adding some different photos taken during the ride.    

The visit inside Coolart Homestead

was an added bonus and the grounds area

is definitely worth a re-visit.  As well as the grounds, BBQ facilities and homestead it is an easy walk to the beach with 2 interesting bridges and views across to Phillip Island.

Thanks everyone and wishing you all a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year

Kris and John Cook