Author: Phil

Reunions and Silo Art

On By PhilIn Uncategorized1 Comment

Or, what you do on a motorcycle in 10 days.

A 12JE class reunion had been on the cards for several years. Thanks to covid, it remained unfinished business until now. After near on 40 years between drinks for some of us, we’d finally managed to lock in a date for mid January, 2024.
I couldn’t pass up this opportunity to attend our reunion, catch up up with old friends, incorporate a shakedown ride of the new to us Honda ST1100, as well as chase some silo art for the IBA Silo Art bronze challenge.

It’s Friday afternoon, it’s hot, we’re lacking energy after recovering from a dose of covid, the procrastination level is high and we’ve got a Sunday afternoon deadline to meet.
Kate starts loading the bike and hands me a can of concrete. I stop sooking about manflu for 5 minutes, make a quick phone call to my old mate Ron and suggest we stop in for a cup of tea on our way past. That soon escalated to dinner and a bed with the promise of an escort down the GO (Great Ocean) road the following day. Sweet.
As this is our first 2 up outing on the ‘new to me’ Honda ST1100, it came as no surprise that I discovered a few gremlins in the bike and consequently, spent a bit of time resolving minor issues on our way to meet Ron n Marls.
We had a great evening chewing the fat followed by a leisurely start to the following day.

The GO road was mostly as I remembered it, but we should’ve taken notice of the congestion leading into Lorne. There was a festival in full swing and by crikey, was it well patronised!! It took some time to negotiate our way through the main street before the traffic thinned, allowing us to be on our way again.
We came across a few vehicles that needed to learn what the slow lane was for, but apart from that, we enjoyed a pleasant ride to our lunch stop of Lavers Hill.

Lavers Hill with Ron and Kate

Lunch done and we said our goodbyes. Ron peeled off at Princetown Rd, returning home to Ballarat.
5 hours later, after more roadworks than I can poke a stick at and cross winds of 60km/h plus, we’d arrived at Mt Gambier. We found a motel, declared beer o’clock and called it quits.

We awoke to a sunny and somewhat warmer Sunday morning. A better day for riding. While the wind remained strong, the direction had shifted to more of a tail wind making life much easier. Coffee consumed and we’re back on the road. We arrived in Adelaide mid afternoon and spent a couple hours catching up with family.

Short break at Millicent. Lovely day to ride.

After checking into our motel, we headed off to my reunion, not really knowing what to expect. All I can say is that we’re grown up versions of our teenage selves. Most of us look a bit older, may be a bit more responsible and have had a few life lessons. There were some interesting stories told. It’s both enlightening and inspiring to understand how people handle life’s curve balls. 
It was one of those nights that could’ve marched on forever, absolutely fantastic to catch up again!

Class of 84 12JE and partners

Monday morning and we’re back on the road. This time headed for our first silo art at Bute. As we approached the area, it didn’t take long for me to question where the GPS was taking us. No GPS, the big ST is not an adventure bike!

Anyway, a quick reroute and we’re heading in the right direction again, albeit still covering a few more km on the dirt before arriving at Bute. I reckon I need to go back because I didn’t capture all the images. 

Bute Silo Art

Next stop is Wirrabarra.
The artwork depicts the rich history of the area which has strong ties to the forestry industry as well as referencing the beautiful local flora and fauna for which the area is also well known for.

Wirrabara Silo Art

After leaving Wirrabarra, we headed off to Melrose and then to Pt Augusta via Horrock pass .

No sooner had we left the Horrocks Pass cairn, this scooter followed by an BMW1250RT came past. I bet I know who that was! Quick u-turn and chase said pair back over the pass to Wilmington. G’day Karl (Skidoo) and Alan (Hagar).
Now Karl is a bit of a bike nutter, having just ridden his little scooter to Perth (from Sydney) and was heading home. Oh, and he solved that time / distance equation in just a tick under 50 hours. Nice Karl, nice!

Karl, Hagar and Kate with the bikes.

More goodbyes and we venture over Horrocks Pass yet again. Oh, the humanity. Onto our next catchup, Davo. Our friend and the bloke responsible for setting up FarRiders in this country and herding them cats, them being the long distance riders of Oz. FarRiders – its just a road.
My bike is positioned to emulate the banner shot which sat proudly as the header photo of the FarRiders forum. The photo next to it, the plaque of remembrance.
We lost Davo in a motorcycle accident in 2009. Ride well my friend. Blue skies and smooth roads.

Banner Shot and Plaque at the Banner Shot Location

After taking care of some business in Port Augusta, we headed back to the Jamestown area to catch up with Reg and Daisy. It was nice spending a couple of days hanging out in air-conditioned comfort, enjoying their hospitality and catching up on everything since their big move to the mainland. Thanks again!

Next stop is Farrell Flat. Kate may have called the wind just a bit feral wind as she fought with hair and the rally flag. I swear I caught a fleeting glimpse of “The Doc”.
Completed in November 2020, the silo art at Farrell Flat depicts the last train to pass through this historic township.

Farrell Flat Silo Art

Next, a short ride up to Owen.

Owen Silo Art

Followed by Eudunda. This is quite a spectacular work!

Eudunda Silo Art

The suns rays dwindled as we made our way to Blanchetown and some home comforts at Kate’s Step Dads place.
The weather in NSW and Vic had turned to custard (no gliding), so we decided to delay our return home, instructed the kids not to burn the house down and came up with a new plan. Nothing quite like planning on the fly.

After a good nights sleep and a lazy start, we’d decided on a loop ride to go collect a few more silo arts.
A couple hundred km plus a fuel stop later and we arrived at Coonalpyn. The murals depict a magnificent tribute to five Coonalpyn Primary School children, whose images will now live on in the history of the town forever.

Coonalpyn Silo Art

Then a short backtrack, take a right at Yumali and head up to Karoonda. We find a cafe, have some lunch and pay a visit to the Karoonda Silos.
By day, one side of the Karoonda Silos is magnificent tribute to the heritage of farming in Karoonda. By night, an ever-changing display of art from South Australian artists lights up the main street attraction.

Karoonda Silo Art

Up to this point in time, we’d had a very easy run. Then things changed. Heading to the next silo of Copeville, the road surface became dirt. Fairly good dirt, but dirt none the less. I check with Kate that she’s comfortable enough to proceed at a leisurely pace. Thumbs up, lets go.
If I’d have planned this properly (no fun in that) I’d have realised we were in for about 90km of dirt to get the next 2 silo arts. Ah well.

We made it to Copeville without any incidents, albeit at a slowish pace. An interesting painting!

Copeville Silo Art

And then more dirt. The roads deteriorated a bit but it’s nice country out here with very few people around.


A few more km down the dirt road, we rolled into Galga and clamp eyes on the spectacular silo art. This place is well worth a visit. The Silo features local soldiers and pays homage to nurses, including POW Vivian Bullwinkel. 

Galga Silo Art

Time to get off these dirt road, well, in a bit anyway. The road is sealed from Maggea, and this assists in forward progress to Waikerie. I’ve driven and ridden past this silo art many times but never stopped for a look.
Featuring on Jimmy’s silo, is local native flora and fauna, including a giant Yabby and the endangered Regent Parrot.
I’d encourage everyone to stop for a look, these colourful images speak for themselves!

Waikerie Silo Art

A mere 50km had us back in Blanchetown and making like a pair of lounge lizards.

I need to be back at work Monday, so it’s time to bite the bullet and wind this holiday up, but not before a bit more fun. The SA Ozstoc (Australian ST Owners group) guys are having a get together in Mannum Saturday lunchtime. Ah, mere 100km down the road from where we are. I throw our names into the ring and say we’ll be there for lunch.
Now, to compound the fun, I’ve also said we’ll attend the Vic Ozstoc lunch gathering on Sunday, just 24 hours later.
I didn’t think anything of this but apparently there were some doubters. I figured I’d just stay quite, keep ’em guessing and attend both functions. Well, that was until another member outed me as a seasoned distance rider and suggested this was nothing more than a latte run.
Thanks for the welcome SA Ozstoc!

SA Ozstoc gathering, Mannum

It’s hot and I’m not inspired to get out there, but, we need to cover miles. Down to Murray Bridge, refuel and back on the road.
240km later we roll into Kaniva, grab a drink and admire more silo art. The design features the Australian Hobby bird.

Kaniva Silo Art

From here it’s a mere 58km and a detour off the main drag to Goroke. This silo features the Kookaburra (left) and the Magpie (right).

Goroke Silo Art

After a day on the road in 40 degree heat, Horsham became that place! Motel and beer and goodnight.

6am and stark contrast to yesterday. Overcast and cool. Put on a layer of thermals and lets go visit the Horsham silo art.
The mural is titled The Yangga Dyata which means ‘Walking on Country’  and it stands proud celebrating the significant story of Yanggendyinanyuk a Wotjobaluk warrior’s story of leadership, resilience and significant legacy.

Horsham Silo Art

A quick ride to Murtoa. This was a difficult site to access but the art is interesting.

Murtoa Silo Art

Short distances chew up time so we get our skates on and get over to Rupanyup.
The featured faces are those of Rupanyup residents and local sporting team members, Ebony Baker and Jordon Weidemann.

Rupanyup Silo Art

Then over to St Arnaud and the ghostly figures painted on the silos.
Titled ‘Hope’, Kyle has told the story of three pioneer residents of St Arnaud, a former gold mining town, situated between Ballarat and Mildura.

St Arnaud Silo Art

We’re in front timewise so agree that it’s time for breakfast, well, after covering another 60km down to arrive at Avoca.
Jimmi has painted two large images, one of the endangered Barking Owl and the other of the vulnerable Brush-tailed Phascogale, both local, native animals of the Pyrenees Ranges.
After leaving the silos, We stopped at the local bakery for a bite to eat. Sounds like the plan to attract people to towns is working!

Avoca Silo Art

Right, time to make the Ozstoc Victorian lunch meet. 4 hours and 300km to get to Dalyston. No worries!

We rolled in at the start time of 12:30 and were made very welcome. Now because I didn’t take any photos here, I umm, borrowed a couple from the website.

Dalyston RTE VIC

At 5pm we rolled into the driveway, bike shakedown complete and lots of friends visited and about 4500km covered. Job done. Until next time, have fun!!

50CC – The 20th Anniversary ride

On By PhilIn UncategorizedLeave a comment

Part 2 – Time to go home

I hear a BMW start. It’s 7am and Derricks away. I’m not moving yet, well, maybe a little, just to get a coffee.
Time to load the bike and get ready to cover the first couple km and catch up with my Darwin workmates and chew the fat. I get away by lunchtime with my sights set on Daly Waters.
All’s great till I’m 40km south of Darwin and run headlong into a police roadblock. There’s a small fire that’s covering the Stuart Highway. A copper walks up and inquires as to my destination. Melbourne I reply, to which he replies, you’ve got a few kays to cover, see that car over there? follow him down the detour and you’ll be fine. Have a good ride.
Quite refreshing really after dealing with the jackbooted thugs here in Victoriastan.
Anyway, detour done and spend the few hours getting to Daly Waters. Stayed overnight and got moving early the next day before Bob and Mabel got their vans on the road. There were plenty of them, most on the way to, or coming from, Dingo Piss Creek.

I’m approaching Renner Springs, having had an uneventful ride sofar, when I spot something that looks odd, very odd. As I get closer, I get that “oh shit” feeling. There’s a van on its side and from how I’m seeing it, looks like it’s been a head on. I get closer and breathe a sigh of relief when I realise it’s old mate and his family checking up on Bob and Mabel after Bob stroked his beard once too often and sent the whole shooting match into the sticks. Mabel didn’t look happy… not happy at all, Jan! No photos and I kept moving.

Another couple hundred kays, a refuel and I’d made it to the Devils Marbles for a late lunch.

30 minutes later and we’re south bound again. Barrow Creek rolls into view. I’ve always been fascinated by the ranges around here. The photos really don’t do it justice. Then there’s the Barrow Creek hotel. Used to be owned by a bloke called Les Pilton and was affectionately known as the Pilton Hilton.
Now if you stopped in there and Les decided to have a quick beer with you, you either stopped at one beer or you were there all night. Carry on, nothing to see here.

I arrived in Alice Springs and spent the next couple days catching up with Dad which he really appreciated. Age catches up with us all and Dad misses Mum and his mates. I also took time to go see Mum and have a chat bit of a chat. Unfortunately flowers don’t last long in the Territory heat.

I had about 4 days to get home so time to move. Heading out on Larapinta drive, I was reminded why I still love this part of the country. The Western Macs are just something else!

At the end of Larapinta Drive there lays the township of Hermannsburg, where I spent my childhood.
There is a memorial cairn 3 miles east of Hermannsburg for Albert Namatjira overlooking the landscape that inspired his paintings. We often used to ride our pushbikes out here as kids.

Some things have changed and others stayed the same. This is what I notice about Hermannsburg.
I looked longingly at the precinct that is now enclosed behind bars and attracts a fee to go in. I chose to remember things as they were.
In the photo below, I’m looking straight down our dustbowl we lovingly called a cricket pitch. How times have changed.

After an hour of poking around the town, I headed out to Palm Valley. Managing a heavy adventure bike on near road tyres proved interesting to say the least. Point and commit was how to get it done in the sand. Once again I was reminded why I still love this landscape. 
There’s always a downside though. The interwebz has taken over and you now need to book a campsite online. So handy when you’re out there. I left in disgust and while riding out, passed about a dozen yahoos with overloaded fully souped 4WD’s towing camper trailers. Maybe I dodged a bullet. Who knows.
I think I’ll remember the place the way it was. Maybe one day I’ll wander back out there when my head’s in a better place.

With my plan of camping at Palm Valley being thwarted by covid and modernization, I got on the Merinee Loop a bit earlier than planned.
If you haven’t done this loop, put it on the bucket list. The scenery is stunning!

After a few more hours of riding, I found a nice campsite at Gintys lookout.

This site gives a tremendous view of the back of Kings Canyon as well as a stunning sunset and sunrise!

Kings Canyon up close.

The following day I headed to Marla. After refuelling, I jumped back on da bike and nek momint Ima lying underneaf it. What happened you may ask? well, apparently BMW’s have sidestands are made from the same cheesium their rims are. I made necessary adjustments and called it quits for the day and went and drank beer.

That was pretty much it, all boxes ticked. I spent the next 2 days heading home, stopping occasionally to smell the roses. All in all, a very successful trip with the only failure being the sidestand. Gotta be happy with that!

Below. Acacia bush and Sturts Desert Pea

50CC – The 20th Anniversary ride

On By PhilIn 50CC rides1 Comment

Part 1

It’s 1:30 am and I’m standing around at a servo buzzing away with all these other nutters about to launch on a crazy big ride. What the hell am I doing here and more to the point, how the hell did I get wrapped up in this to start with??????

The Lead up.

Lets step back a few months and take a look at what’s transpired to this point.

20 years ago, back in 2003, 4 crazy blokes decided to ride from Melbourne to Darwin one weekend. That was the first certified 50CC or 50 hours Coast to Coast completed in Australia.
Fatman and LTP thought it a good idea to mark the 20th anniversary of that ride so got in contact with the original ride leader, Derrick, who also thought it was a great idea..
On the 12 of Jan, 2023, Fatman posted up on the forum and planning for the 20th anniversary ride kicked off with people being asked to express an interest in participating. Group start at 2am, 25th of August 2023. Derrick was designated to lead the group out of the servo, then each rider switches to their own ride plan. Everyone is different. (cue Monty Python)

I’ve harbored a desire to complete a 50CC, just because I can and because I like to ride motorbikes and tour over long distances. I mused over this ride, discussed with the wife and on the 16th of Jan, put my name up as a starter.

Was this ride going to be comfortable? not in my current state (lack) of fitness, both physical and riding wise.

For the next few months, I put together ride plans, rode day runs and spent time sorting out timing issue. I also started at the gym with circuit training and boxing classes to improve physical and mental fitness and put the bottle of booze away for the last 5 weeks leading into the ride.
May and June proved challenging as I was required to travel for work, so with only 6 weeks to go, I managed to squeeze in 2 reasonable length rides. the first being the Silo Arts tour of NSW and the second, Border Run 2023. Both rides went well and proved all systems were go, even the rider might make the grade.

1 week out, I decided to fit an MCCruise to assist in fatigue reduction, fuel efficiency and ensuring I didn’t speed creep in either direction. This turned out to be a really good thing later in the ride!

Thursday, T minus 1 day

We’d decided to have solar panels fitted to the house and the company supplying decided today was a good day to do the installation. Beaut. Not really what I wanted but shit happens. I had the day off work and it gave me a reason to be up early.

In amongst answering questions and signing stuff, I organised my gear and finished packing the bike. By midday, the installers had shot through and with the bike packed, I could lounge around. (read- go over bike for the umpteenth times and rejig the ride plan for the thousandth time) I posted the following on our forum….T minus 9 hours and counting. The lunatic machine is packed. Seeyas there! Yep, in the immortal words of Big Kev, “I’m Excited!!!“

We had dinner very early and I managed to crawl into bed around 6:30pm and grab about 5 hours sleep before the alarm clock woke me. Realistically, I think the nervous energy woke me before the alarm did!

Friday – My Big Dance

Get up, get organised. Bike out of the shed and on the road to meet everyone at the start. Kate is close behind in the car, and like others, will be waving us off on our journey. Many thanks to the crazy LD groupies.

So here we are, back to the opening line, It’s 1:30 am and I’m standing around at a servo buzzing away with all these other nutters about to launch on a crazy big ride. It’s come down to this, all the prep and planning is done and about to unfold. 3770km and 50 hours to get to Darwin. Is it doable? on paper, yes it is. Practically, well, we’re about to find out. Every rider has to ride their own plan and be prepared to pull the pin if the need arises. This is not a ride for egos!

I must’ve been looking nervous. Ox-34 offered me some sage advice. Focus on each tank, not the overall distance. This was useful advice that served me well throughout the ride. Thanks Peter.

Whole Group
Riders

Group photo’s done and dusted, start docket obtained and at 2am, Derrick leads us out of the servo to much fanfare of the gathered IBA crowd. This is it.

We navigate the mayhem that is the roadwork riddled freeway out of Melbourne and start to settle into a rhythm. Not sure who’s where or what’s what but I’m on my own schedule now and aiming at the first fuel stop at Tintinara. All good in theory until I notice one of my driving lights pointing in a funny direction. I curse myself for forgetting to tighten bolts and reach out to readjust. Oh bugger. Not a loose bolt but a broken bracket. Servo in sight and out comes the duck tape.

Fixed. I set sail again and hope my Thommo inspired dodge fix will survive until daybreak. It does, then almost on cue, the bracket breaks. I locate a roadside stop and find Derrick trying to grab a bit of shuteye while I perform surgery on the driving light. He regales me with the tale of getting changed just as Fatman and LTP sail past. Quite amusing. Surgery complete and I bid farewell to Derrick. No doubt I’ll catch him again somewhere.

Finally make it to Tintinara and am in love with my auxiliary tank. At least that bit worked well.

I’d prerun the first leg of this ride via Mt Pleasant a couple weeks ago, turning left and taking the route through Gawler. Not liking the slow pace or roadworks encountered last time, I opted to turn right at Mt Pleasant and head up through Eudunda, picking up the Worlds End highway, eventually popping out at Crystal Brook. No roadworks, barely any traffic . What a stunning day for a ride!

Leg 1 done in just on 12 hours. I’m pleased with that! I refuelled at Pt Augusta and bumped into Sam who was busily shoving food into himself prior to the leg north. We chatted for a few minutes and then I got back on the road.

As I turned right onto the Stuart Highway, I started to go over my ride plan in earnest. This is leg 2 and it’s full of unknowns. How am I feeling? Is the bike running well? whats the wind doing to fuel economy? will I make my next fuel stop of Coober Pedy? And most importantly, when am I going to hit that wall. Keep a keen watch on everything.

The wind plays havoc with my fuel economy, and approaching Glendambo, I decide that discretion is the better part of valor and stop for a splash and dash. Fatman and LTP have just refueled so a quick hello and goodbye and they’re off as I go pay for my fuel.

Not far out of Coober Pedy I’m treated to a magnificent sunset. While I’m busy taking photos, I see what I think is Sam go past. I’ll catch up with him in a tick.

Not too far up the road, I catch up with another rider who’s tucked in behind a road train. Probably not a bad move at this time of evening. We make our way to the servo and begin refueling. I stick my head around the bowser, thinking I’m about to say hello to Sam, only to discover its Derrick that I’ve tailed in. Anyway, a quick bite to eat and Derrick asks of my plans, to which I respond, I aint really got one. Roll out a mat at an IBA hotel when I’m tired. Derrick kindly offers me one of the spare beds in his room at Marla if I want it. Sounds a plan.

We decide to ride together to Marla which suits me as I’m down 1 driving light. We take several short breaks along the way and during one of those breaks, are treated to one of the biggest and brightest shooting stars I’ve ever seen. The things you see when not tucked up on the couch in front of a telly.

Arriving in Marla, we check in and head for the room. Fatman and LTP greet us and then let us know that they’re out due to a stuffed final drive seal. Bugger. We retire to bed with the alarm set for about 5 hours sleep.

And what seemed like 5 minutes is 5 hours later. Derrick asks how I slept. Like a log is my answer. Now apparently we both snore (so we’ve been told) and considering neither of us woke the other, we’ve decided we don’t and will happily report this to anyone who contradicts our scientific findings. That’s our story and we’re sticking to it!

We head off and bump into Wombattle. He joins us for a pleasantly cool and leisurely run to the border where we’re greeted by the first rays of light. We grab a few happy snaps and Wom pushes on with Derrick and me heading off a couple minutes later.

The speed starts to increase and soon enough, Erldunda is in sight. Derrick needs fuel and I need coffee and, why not, that bacon n egg sambo looks good so is added to the menu. I finish my coffee and sambo, wander over to Derrick who’s fiddling with something and bid him farewell, suggesting he’ll catch me on the road.

It’s not long and the taller F700gs gearing I fitted is making easy work of the 130 speed limit up here in the NT. No sooner than I’d settled in for the remaining 200km run to Alice, there is pressing business to deal with and soon enough, a suitable meeting spot comes into view. While busily dealing with the nature of said business, I hear a boxer twin go by, being ridden in an appropriate manner. Seeya somewhere up the road Derrick.

I complete the run into Alice, grab a photo, wave in the general direction of Dads place, wave at Mum as I ride past and make a promise to visit both on my way home. I stop only for fuel and get out of town.

I enjoy the NT speed limit and the ability it gives to cover miles quickly…..and drain fuel tanks with the same gusto. I get the nods around Aileron, some 140km north of Alice. The temps are up and I’ve still got all my thermals on. Time for an immediate break, layer down, something to eat and have a walk around.
With that issue solved, I’m back at it, only to get an Inreach text from Kate informing me that it looks like my refuel at Wauchope has been kyboshed as they have no unleaded. Damn. How to deal with this setback? Go back 30km to Barrow Creek and put in 10 litres? Not ideal as it costs time. Why dont I just tuck in behind a truck for a while and conserve some fuel. That’s a plan and I’m running with it. 60km of discipline later and my fuel range exceeds my distance to run. I overtake the truckie, point at my tank and give him the thumbs up. Hope he understood. Tennant Creek servo is happy enough to sell me 28.2 litres of fuel. Made it with heaps to spare….all 1.8 litres of spare. Note to self. Let’s not do that again hey. Quick break had and back on the road.

350km later I roll into Dunmarra and bump into Derrick. We must stop meeting this way, people are going to talk. We say a quick hello and catch you up the road and Derricks away.

An hour later, I’ve caught and passed Derrick who’s running his own fuel strategy. I’m making the most of my last hour of light. That light is dwindling fast and with it comes skippy. Just little skippy but at 130kph, I reckon he’ll knock me off. Time to back it down to something more sensible for night riding, plus there’s a lot of smoke ahead.

It’s just on dark as I roll into Larrimah, some 200km south of Katherine. The smoke is heavy as I sit on the side of the road, waiting to see if Derrick is going to catch up. After 15 minutes, I’ve had enough of the smoke and push on. Now things get really interesting.

Not far down the road, I encounter the reason for the glow in the sky. Cue the fires. This looks really amazing at nighttime! Just watch for animals escaping the inferno!! Anyway, I figured this wasn’t all bad and I’d cope just fine.


Then I spotted the next glow and it didn’t look anywhere near as inviting.

I continued on then bumped into old mate who’d just driven through the fire front. We chatted for a few minutes and let’s just say, he wasn’t full of enthusiasm, colourfully describing how he’d handle such a catastrophic world ending blaze and the people who started it. I postulated to myself that he’d driven through and as such, I’d be fine if I applied due care.

The smoke got thick and the flames got hot, real hot. My lungs coughed, eyes watered and I was acutely aware of the auxiliary tank on the back that was full of fumes and probably venting in the heat. That white line next to the road was only visible 10 meters in front of me and I kept it in sight….BIG TIME!! It was about this time I thought that maybe there was some merit to old mates tome of death and destruction and this may not have been the brightest thing I’ve ever done. But just like that, I emerged from the fiery flames of hell.

Wow, that was one challenging 100 meters or so (I wasn’t really looking) of flame front!! The smokes thick but I’m coping ok. During this time, my thoughts turned to the others, who, by this stage, have decided that those in front have either made it through unscathed, or are indeed masquerading as BBQ chooks. Their ride reports tell that tale of caution, decisions and team effort. Well done guys. All of you!

An uneventful couple hundred km later, I rolled into the outskirts of Katherine spotting a bike at a servo.
Pulling in I see Spaz having a breather in the carpark. We discuss the fires as I refuel and then see the rest of the crew pull in. There’s been some heavy duty soul searching after that. We’ve plenty of time up our sleeves so enjoy some camaraderie. We catch up with one of the fierys and discover they’re doing backburns. The problem is the wind changed and the fire jumped the road just about where we came through. Not ideal.

Half an hour later and we’re riding to Darwin as a group with various short breaks being taken en-route.
I know exactly where the fuel station is (refueled there many times) and absolutely ignore my (very) irritated GPS who thinks it knows better.

At 01:03am CST, I finish along with the other crazy nutters. Done and dusted. The welcoming committee of Wendy and Richard are full of excitement and congratulations while we take in the what we’ve just achieved. Receipts are grabbed and the all important docs are signed. I think we gave Wendy and Richard writers cramp.

That’s it, time to head to our digs for a well needed shower and sleep.

The next day (was really later in the day) I did some maintenance on the BMW, managed to do a load of washing and then head off and catch up for dinner. Spaz, Sam and I arrived early and didn’t waste too much time in downing some neck oil. I swear I was smiling but must’ve been really tired. Ah well.
Dinner was great. Fantastic to enjoy each others company after such a ride, swapping plenty of stories. The night drew to a close and we all bid each other farewell and good riding. 50CC done. What a buzz!

Tomorrow I start the trip home……..

Border Run 2023

On By PhilIn Border Run1 Comment

I haven’t done the Border Run for I don’t know how many years and it’s a good long ride that provides ample helmet time. Perfect for building ride fitness for the big dance at the end of this month (August)

3:30am yells a voice from the alarm clock. WOW, didn’t realise that’d be so noisy. Mustn’t use that feature again. Anyway, I’d like to say I dragged my sorry backside out of bed but it’s more like peel myself off the roof after the rude awakening.
The bikes already loaded and waiting in the shed patiently waiting for me to gear up and throw some coffee down my throat. I’m going to pre run the first leg of the 50CC from United West Gate South to Port Augusta today and see how many gremlins I find in the plan. I’ve got about 80km to the start point, then just over 1000km to Pt Augusta. No probs.
Arriving at the start point, I top off with fuel and grab a DBR (dated business receipt) to start proceedings. 5:45am and I’m on the clock to Pt Augusta. I’ve allocated 12 hours (according to my plan) to get there.

14 hours later, I arrive after a few delays and family stops. I’m satisfied the plan worked, sans delay. I was also supposed to meet a friend here, but due to illness, that wasn’t happening. To add insult to injury, my other mate has called in and is also headed home after a fail to proceed with an electrical gremlin. Damn, was also looking forward to catching up.


Day 2

Woke up feeling a bit meh knowing I wasn’t seeing a couple mates but shit happens and its a nice day so lets go. 18 deg and refuel, taking note of the weather pushing across.
Didn’t take long before the wets were out and the heated gear turned on. Attitude matters, ride with a smile. Thanks Bret Tkacs.

I rolled into Kimba, found the Big Galah, photographed the painted silo and had breakfast at the roadhouse, complete with listening to the whingers who had to wait 10 minutes for a couple things while the overworked servo assistant tried to juggle priorities. Muppets I tells ya.

Anyway, got back underway for an uneventful ride to the border, albeit burning fuel at a rate of knots due to a crazy strong headwind. It was kinda relentless.

A few riders had shown up, I found the hallowed rally pudding and headed over to camp Davo.

Spent a couple days at Border Village, caught up with a couple mates and set sail early (cough cough- 10am ain’t early son) Sunday morning although I did see (a very damp dewy) sunrise.

My plan was Kingoonya via Hiltaba Homestead. Some lovely coastline on the way.

The day was drawing on and as I approached Hiltaba Homestead, the roos were starting to jump and there were plenty of them. Change of plans. I handed over my $15 fee at the Homestead for a campspot in the Gawler Ranges at Pretty Pool. And yes, it was a pretty place with some nice facilities.

I got up in the morning to be greeted by a solid frost. Time to pack up and get some breakfast. Yes, rice cream and black coffee is a legitimately good breakfast. I dont care who disagrees with me 🙂

After a nice brekky , I’d decided I didn’t feel like riding north so changed tack and headed for Mt Ive Station then down toward Iron Knob and onto Pt Augusta. The scenery is just stunning!!

I stopped at the ruins of Pondanna station and had a quick poke about. I mused at what life would’ve been like out here way back then.

Continuing on, the Flinders Ranges came into view and Pt Augusta wasn’t far away.

I detoured via Blanchetown to catch up with family prior to an uneventful ride back to Melbourne.

I closed out the ride covering about 4000km in 6 days. All systems seemed to work well and my ride fitness greatly improved. Time to service the bike and fit a new rear tyre before the big dance in a couple weeks. Until then, ride well and have fun.

NSW Silo Art and Virtual Solar Drive

On By PhilIn Silo ArtsLeave a comment

So I had a few days TOIL (time off in lieu) and Kate suggested (in the nicest possible way) that I head off on the bike for a bit. After considering this for a short period of time, I loaded the bike and was out the door.

As I have a big ride later in the year (just over a month away as I write this), this proved to be the perfect opportunity for a shake down of some new components.
I’d added a proper accessories fuse box to the BMW, even tapping into the CANBUS system so as to gain the proper accessories switch on/off. I was fairly certain the way I’d configured wouldn’t give grief but real world testing will soon let you know.
A Zumo XT had been added to replace my ageing Nuvi 500 (its only 14 years old) and I needed to learn how to drive it. (this was the driver to add a proper accessories fuse box because I couldn’t fit yet another set of connectors and fuses directly to the battery)
SPOT Tracker once upon a time ruled the roost as far as tracking went. I’ve since replaced my old SPOT with a Garmin Inreach which has 2 way communications via text message as well as SOS features and has far superior performance for a similar outlay of dollars. I needed to verify that the Garmin Inreach played nicely with Spotwalla, a 3rd party track hosting site. A number of us will be using Spotwalla to track our ride later in the year.
It’d be the first major outing for new riding gear I’d recently purchased. I hadn’t paid a lot so I wasn’t sure what to expect. For short rides, it’d been ok ……. sofar.

So where to go? I’d been looking at Silo Art over is South Australia and also here in Victoria. Given that I was heading that way in the not to distant future, I didn’t really want to head there this trip.

Ok, so whats wrong with NSW? Answer: Nothing! A ride plan was soon organized to take in all the Silo Art of NSW as well as incorporating one of the Virtual Solar System Drives into the itinerary.

I rolled out the gate about 10:30am Wednesday only to get a few km down the road a realise I’d forgotten something. Turn around, head home, collect said item and promptly drop the bike in the driveway. The F800gs is a heavy bike, even moreso when loaded. After some time had elapsed and some much colourful language used, I got going again.

Murrumburra was the target for day 1, just a mere 575km up the road. I’d have a nice campsite and a great sleep and a wonderful ride and that had changed by the time I’d arrived at Wangaratta, only 275km from home.
The Zumo XT didn’t like me deviating from the route I’d programmed and its ability to reroute was awful. Then Kate messaged me letting me know the tracking wasn’t working and I was sweating like a pig in the new riding gear. So much for breathable gear. Uncomfortable and annoyed, Davo’s voice popped into my head. Fix the problem then get on with it.
I rerouted to Tocumwal, 130km away, where I have my caravan setup onsite. Grab a shower, have some dinner and start sorting out problems. I emailed the Spotwalla guru and he had my tracking issue solved in minutes. Yep, I’d stuffed up a URL. I took heed of a few suggestions posted on the IBA Forum on re routing with the Zumo XT and also spent some time with the users manual and youtube. Doesn’t everyone use youtube to work out issues?

Thursday’s a new day. Jump out of bed ready to ride, poke my head outside and promptly return to bed. 4am and fog so thick I couldn’t see the driveway some 50 meters away. Bah humbug. Surface again at 7am and by 8 I’m heading north.
I rolled into Cootamundra and had brunch around 1pm. Is it still brunch at 1pm if you haven’t had breakfast? Could I have asked for a better day as I set my sights on the first silo art at Murrumburrah? I think not!

I rolled into Murrumburrah and got my happy snaps of the silo there.

Murrumburrah

Next stop, Bathurst, and of course, the obligatory lap.

Start line

Mt Panorama

Rightio, that’s enough mucking around on the mountain, time to get on with it. Refueled and on the road to Portland.
Kate rang to let me know she’d organised a pub room for me at Wallerawang. Nice. We’re having a nice chat while I rolled down the road until the dinner bell rang and skippy came out to play.
Crikey, I hadn’t seen this many roos for goodness knows how long. Anyway, disaster averted as I rolled into Portland to grab my second silo art photo of the day.
Leaving Portland, I navigated the short distance to the warm pub at Wallerawang and settled in for the evening. (I think it was the Royal Hotel. Good food, good people and warm).
600km for the day, better, but not in the groove yet, not by a long shot.

Portland

The world’s started moving outside, therefore, so should I. Friday greeted me with this pleasant sight, and no, the BM didn’t want to get out of bed either. Settle in for a cold ride son.

I enjoyed the run over to Merriwa, experiencing the temperature swings of -9.5c up to 10c as I wandered between open areas and cuttings through the hills. BMW kindly fit heated handgrips as standard, they were cranked up along with the ventura heated vest being set to medium. The thoughts of black ice had my attention, so boy racer remained contained. These had been the coldest temps I’d ever ridden in and while I was cool, I wasn’t overly cold.

The fuel station was a welcome sight at Merriwa. Stock F800gs’s (or however that apostrophe thing goes) have a shockingly poor fuel range of about 300km and hold a grand total of 16 litres. I do feel like pulling out an eye dropper sometimes. Anyway, fuel sorted fore another couple km, the bakery called. Hot coffee and the food of champions, the good old poi and sauce. Food done, silo art time. Sun position didn’t help the photo but I was certainly enjoying the ride.

Merriwa

Just a mere 130km or so up the road, Quirindi. This one is stunning. The artist has done a fine job.
There is also a light show in the evenings to compliment the art.

Quirindi

By this time, I’m starting to feel some form of riding fitness returning. Things have stopped hurting and I’m going with the flow. Helmet time is magic. It provides time to step away from life’s stresses and just chill.

A quick refuel at Tamworth (this thing doesn’t take long to fill, really) and off to Barraba for the next instalment.

Barraba

Time for a quick bite to eat at a roadside stop and then off to Gunnedah. Didn’t take long before the Zumo and me were at each others throats again. Crikey, for a smart GPS, they can be quite dumb, or maybe that’s the operator. A flick through menus to discover that the unpaved roads avoidance box is ticked. Untick box, GPS changes its mind and we’re off again. I reckon it would’ve been a grand total of 20km good dirt road, and another stunning day. The road gods were smiling at me!

I rolled into Gunnedah and grabbed the next photo.

Gunnedah

With time marching on, I got moving again with Coonabarabran being the next target. As I rolled in on dark, and given how cold it was the previous evening, I asked Kate to find me a pub room and holed up for the evening. Unlike the Royal Hotel in Wallerawang, I couldn’t recommend the pub I stayed in.
Just a smidge over 700km for the day and I was feeling ok. Sort of a gentle touring pace today. I’ll settle for that.

After a broken nights sleep, I loaded the bike and set off at sunrise, the Zumo XT leading the way. Now, I wanted to go to Siding Spring Observatory to start the Virtual Solar System Drive. Apparently the Zumo XT decided because I didn’t go there last evening, that I’d bypassed it and helpfully routed me out of town the wrong way. Wonderful. I restarted the route, selecting Siding Spring Observatory as my start point. Still going the wrong way but this time it wanted me to take a 15km detour. WTF is going on ???
Back into the settings and guess what? the U-Turns avoidance is ticked. Untick that and we’re friends again and heading for the Siding only half an hour behind time. Bah humbug.

A nice cool ride up to the Observatory to start the drive. Unfortunately they’re not open yet so no up close and personal shot of the “Sun”. It looks like this from a distance.

Sun

Just a kilometer down the road we find Mercury followed by Venus another 750 meters further on.

Earth is located 2.1 km away followed by Mars a further 1.5km on.

I keep moving, picking up Jupiter another 15km away. Given that I’m already behind time, I decided to stop in Coonabarabran again, top up with fuel and have some breakfast. Wow, breakfast before doing a couple hundred km. Crazy.

With breakfast done, niggles out the way and everything working as it should, I’m looking for Saturn just 20km away with another 38km to come up with all the jokes around Uranus. Lets just say there were a few comedians in my helmet.

Leaving Uranus (insert appropriate joke here), Neptune was next. Given I was trying to cover some miles, my thoughts turned to our riders/pillions that had just finished the IBR (Iron Butt Rally) over in America. They’d done 11 days of this type of riding, covering a heck of a lot more miles than I was. Can of concrete for me!


A quick break in proceedings to photograph the spectacular silo art at Dunedoo!

Dunedoo

Now back to the virtual solar system drive to collect the last planet, Pluto. Google maps had given me some bogus coordinates, so I went on a bit of a goose chase finishing up on some dirt back roads and thinking it should be a lot more obvious than this. Anyway, 15 minutes of mucking around and puzzle solved. Pluto, the planet nobody wants anymore.

Pluto

Right, I’d finally fulfilled my desire to drive the virtual solar system. Now to lay down some serious km and get to Grenfell some 300km down the track. Settle in and enjoy the ride.
Arriving at Grenfell, I was once again super impressed with the detail. This is another spectacular piece of art.

Grenfell

Back on the bike and find some more fuel, then head for my final silo art, Weethalle. Not too far down the road I pulled into a roadside stop for a late lunch and a cup of tea. It’s really quite nice being self sufficient and pulling over for something to eat and a cup of tea wherever you like. I highly recommend it.

Anyway, another hour on the road and I had Weethalle in front of me.

Weethalle

Mission complete, almost. Just gotta get home. I’d arranged to meet Kate in Tocumwal, about 275km away. I had 1 hour of daylight remaining so therefore night riding practice coming up, slap bang in the middle of roo country.

Heading toward Narrandera, a sunset photo opportunity presented itself. Nothing quite like a great sunset.

It wasn’t long before I was in that twilight time and then the dinner bell rang again. Me n Skippy were on a collision course. It would seem that telling a roo to “eff off ya bastard!!” when he’s 3 feet away from you works. He turned tail and bolted. Suited me just fine. Shortly after, I rolled into Narrandera, refuelled and headed for the highway. This time, the Newell, which is quite heavily trafficked at night.
The remaining 200km to Tocumwal didn’t see me lining up any kamikaze roos, althought the body count told me they were out there.
Arriving in Tocumwal, I’d covered just shy of 1000kmfor the day. I felt good and my ride fitness had returned to some degree. I headed home the next day, satisfied I’d got some riding in and feeling a lot more relaxed. Back to work and start prepping for the next ride.

Some Stat, because I forgot to include them.

Total Distance: 3048km
Fuel used: 154.57L
Economy: 5.1L/100km or 19.7km/l

And finally, a snapshot from the tracking map of where I went. Follow the orange line.