Despite rather grim conditions, a good number of Ulysseans did attend the Memorial service at Centennial Park, Macedon.  

Six members (including Dave for his first ride with the Ulysses Club) associated with Melbourne Branch assembled at Epping

and Roger volunteered to lead the ride to Macedon and I took on TEC duty.    After a “transport” run up the Hume to Wallan, we turned west and rode towards Romsey before turning south and going through Darraweit Guim to Riddells Creek and then west towards Gisborne.  Roger then turned off and took us along some delightful back roads before getting us to Centennial Park

where we were greeted by some Macedon ranges members.

Our host “Smokey” then returned after some reconnaissance of the planned route which confirmed that conditions were truly dismal and the decision was made to cancel the ceremony ride and simply have the service at Centennial Park.  The “normal” service at the Cross wasn’t possible due to maintenance closures.  Hot snags and soft drinks were made available and members from all around assembled and chatted before the service.   Happily, I also caught up with several members I hadn’t seen for some years. 

An introduction was done by Greg Rees who had ridden down from Alexandra

Perry Stephens

recited relevant poetry and

Steve (Smokey) Draper completed the service which acknowledged Ulysseans who had passed away in the past year and also an acknowledgement for Remembrance Day.

There were members from Central Victoria, Geelong, Grampians,

Macedon Ranges, Westgate Wanderers (including some Nat Com members), Whittlesea and many other branches present.   My apologies to the branches I have omitted.    

It is planned for the service to be conducted at the Memorial Cross atop Mt Macedon again next year.  Those who know, know, for those who don’t, it is an event and location well worth attending.  

Special thanks to Smokey for organising again, the Macedon Ranges Branch for catering and to Perry and Greg for their input.        

Cheers  - John Cook (Melbourne Branch)