FEBRUARY 2021
www.bmwmcq.org.au
OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE BMW MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC. Established 1958
1994 Off Centre Run Epic
OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE BMW MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
The Committee President- Paul Hughes Ph: 0409 814 633 President@bmwmcq.org.au 1200 GS / 700 GS
Vice President - Mark Gilbert Ph: 0400 151 750 vpres@bmwmcq.org.au R 1200GS / F800GS
Secretary - Tony Gray Ph: 0409 493 605 secretary@bmwmcq.org.au R 1200 GS (The Grey Ghost) R 60/6 Treasurer - John Eacott
Ph: 0428 383 826 treasurer@bmwmcq.org.au 2020 K1600GT
Events - Mark Mustchin Ph: 0416 061 638 events@bmwmcq.org.au R 1200GS
Editors - Cindy & Duncan Bennett Ph: 0401 610 671 editor@bmwmcq.org.au Triumph Tigers Records- Greg Gaffney
Ph: 0411424 219 records@bmwmcq.org.au R 1200 RT
Tools/Spares - Bill Luyten Ph: 0438 123 747 tools@bmwmcq.org.au R1150 Rockstar - R1200 GS LC
This Issue - FEBRUARY 2021 Contents:Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 Committee Reports . . . . . . . . . . 5 REGALIA CATALOGUE . . . . . . . . . . 14 CANE TOAD RALLY ‘21 . . . . . . . . . . 17 BMWMCQ EVENTS CALENDAR . . . . 18 AGM FORMS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 from the pen of jane gray . . . . 23 MAINTENANCE CORNER . . . . . . . . . 24 RIDE, CANOE & CAMP. . . . . . . . . . 26 HISTORY OF BREAKFASTT RIDE . . . 27 BMW CLUBS AUSTRALIA. . . . . . . . 29 TIP ‘O THE MONTH. . . . . . . . . . . . 30
Advertisers
TeamMoto - INSIDE COVER Caloundra Motorcycles - P.56 Northside Motorcycles - P.57 Munich Motorcycles - P.58 Good Wool Store - P.58
JANUARY COFFEE MORNING. . . . . . 31 OFF CENTRE RUN STORY. . . . . . . . 32 GOMA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 41 WHAT LIES AHEAD. . . . . . . . . . . . 42 MID WEEK RIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 XMAS PARTY PICS . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 WHEN HUMANS PLAN. . . . . . . . . . 46 GLANCE BACK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 MORE FROM THE PEN OF JANE. . . . 53 40+1 YEARS OF THE GS. . . . . . . . . 54 FOR THE AIRHEADS . . . . . . . . . . . 55 THE LAST WORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60 BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE. . . . . . 61
TeamMoto - P.59 TeamMoto M&W- BACK COVER
On The Cover Surely Dakar? No, but one of the excellent photos provided by Rob Wynne from the Off Centre Run 1994. Story and more great photos start on Page 32.
Regalia - Rosi Johnson Ph: 0424 961 597 regalia@bmwmcq.org.au R1200R
Dealer Liaison - Don Grimes
Ph: 0411 601 372 R1200GS; K1300
Support Role: Clubs Australia Delegate John Eacott Ph: 0428 383 826 delegate@bmwmcq.org.au 2020 K1600GT
Club Details BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc.
2. Improving the service and availability of spare parts for BMWs in Queensland using the advantage of a united effort.
Address all correspondence to: The Secretary PO Box 3669 South Brisbane QLD 4101
4. Organising day trips, tours and outings.
ABN 30 351 243 651
Monthly meetings are held on the first Thursday of the month at the:
Geebung RSL Club
323 Newman Road Geebung A Club Ride is usually held on the first Sunday after the monthly meeting. BMWMCQ AIMS The objectives of the BMWMCQ are to increase the enjoyment of motorcycling by: 1. Improving the opinion of the public towards motorcycling in general and associated members particularly, by careful, courteous, considerate riding, especially when riding with the Club, and rendering assistance to all road users in difficulty.
3. Decreasing maintenance and running costs by mutual assistance on mechanical problems. 5. Encourage and support Regional Ride Groups 6. Affiliation with other clubs/associations where such affiliation would be of mutual benefit. DISCLAIMER The views and opinions expressed in this Journal are those of each contributor and are not necessarily shared by the Editor, management, and / or membership of the BMWMCQ. The Editor reserves the right to refuse any advertising or delete any material which could be considered or interpreted as questionable, libellous or offensive, without consultation. WEB SITE Visit: www.bmwmcq.org.au
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Editorial
FEBRUARY 2021
Cindy & Duncan Bennett
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Editors’ Report
reetings and Happy New Year (even though it’s now February) to all. Our riding has been a bit minimalist over Christmas/New Year and into January. We did a road trip down to see our son in Nowra, NSW but that was in the car (as we had to take the foster dog), so doesn’t really count! We realised the last road trip we had taken in the car was when the kids were young, so luckily we had Tiggy dog with us to provide a distraction during navigational “issues”. We did however go along to see the amazing exhibition at GOMA, and if you haven’t been then there is a good opportunity with the February coffee morning being held at the GOMA coffee shop with the chance to see the exhibit afterwards. A definite highlight of this Journal is the Off Centre Run story starting on Page 32. This was kindly provided by Lyn Dyne and photos by and including BMWMCQ’s very own Rob Wynne. Happy riding, see you on the road! Cindy & Duncan
Two decorative specimens (and some vases)
Might have stopped at the gift shop on the way out...
Submissions for the Next Journal close 25-ish February VENUE FOR BMWMCQ GENERAL MEETINGS GEEBUNG RSL CLUB 323 NEWMAN ROAD GEEBUNG MEALS OPEN AT 6.00 PM MEETING STARTS 7.30 PM
NEXT MEETING: Thursday 4 February 2021!
Committee Reports
FEBRUARY 2021
Paul Hughes
W
elcome to 2021. It hasn’t got off to the wonderful start I had hoped for but that was beyond our control. At this stage let’s hope things go smoothly from here on in. Rest assured the committee will adjust “if and where” necessary to keep members safe, legal and involved. The first two events suffered from Covid restrictions. The General Meeting was called early to allow as many as possible to plan their week. I think the Zoom meeting was a success, but we are planning on going back to onsite meetings from now on. Jollys Lookout postponement was due to Covid restrictions on numbers etc. It will be run on 7 February and hopefully will have its usual great turnout of members. We shouldn’t complain considering the restrictions fellow motorcyclists in other states have had to endure. Safety is the prime concern. The Annual General Meeting will be held on 4 March at Geebung RSL. Notice of meeting and associated nomination and proxy forms are in this journal and will appear on the web site. I would urge all members to become involved. The committee this year has had some great success stories. Photo competitions, Back to the Bush’s, another fabulous Christmas Party and member draws which have been all designed to keep members involved in their club during these difficult times. I thank the committee members one and all as it is their work that makes this all possible. Recently we have started a section on the website under downloads to post up other BMW club journals. It is headed “Magazine - Other States”. It is well worthwhile having a cruise through this section to see what others are up to. Many thanks to Greg and John for organising this. I think any reasonable person would agree that our journal is a stand-out success. Much of that well recognised success is due to Cindy and Duncan’s excellent editorial skills (that we are extremely grateful for), but most its appeal is due to your inputs, articles and photos. Our journal doesn’t simply re-print corporate or overseas writer’s articles but is full of Queensland member’s content. That is what makes it so good. Please keep it all pouring in. The Cane Toad Rally is on in April. Many will be returning rallyists but if you haven’t attended one before I would suggest you should consider. The team organising this has gone to a great deal of trouble ensuring this will
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President’s Report be a great success. Sign up, you will love it. I remind members that we have an everincreasing Library available with many motorcycling rare books available to borrow and read. Fascinating stuff. The best way to get your hands on one is see Jane Gray at one of the General Meetings. There is a listing in the journal at the end. Our dealers and supporters have shown they are dedicated to continue to assist our members throughout the last year. Please show your appreciation by supporting them. Next club year will still be quite a challenge as I don’t see Covid going away any time soon. The committee will continue to be innovative and provide interesting events and activities. Your assistance in indicating in a timely manner is most appreciated and will ensure we are welcome back to the venues we utilise. At the AGM on 4 March, I will be standing
down as President. I have had a long run and it is time for someone else to take the helm. I have genuinely enjoyed helping to see the club grow and prosper during my time. I have made many great friends and I hope to continue to see all of you. The committee support has been fabulous during my run and I thank each and every committee member and those members who have worked hard to make the BMWMCQ such a success. On that note I am very pleased that our current club secretary Tony Gray has decided to nominate for President. Tony has been treasurer, secretary, and a wonderful contributor to club life with Jane and has organised countless rides and events. He also has a long history of club administration and leadership in another life.
Personally, January has been a bl…y disaster. My well-planned trip to Tasmania has had to be cancelled. Something to do with Vic and Tas not wanting to let me in. My car has still not recovered from its flirt with danger in December. I will be going for a short blatt on the 1200 for a week mainly just to experience that wonderful feeling of freedom on the road shared with friends again. Hope to see you all at events and please… Ride safe. Cheers, Paul
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Committee Reports
FEBRUARY 2021
Mark Gilbert
Vice President’s Report
The good ol’ days! - Mark Gilbert in the day
OUTDOOR FESTIVAL: MOTORCYCLES ON THE GREEN
10.30AM SAT 27 FEB 2021 GOMA | FREE Rev your engines at this outdoor festival featuring motorcycles, DJ sets from Patience Hodgson and Lori Lee Cash, live motorcycle builds, plus more! Chat with members of the Historic Motorcycle Club of Queensland as they show off their bikes on the green. Plus, experience the world-exclusive exhibition ‘The Motorcycle’ at GOMA, and drop-by the Ellaspede pop up workshop to see a live custom motorcycle build. This event is free, no bookings required / Please note that a valid ‘The Motorcycle’ ticket is required to visit the exhibition.
Committee Reports
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FEBRUARY 2021
John Eacott
Treasurer’s Report
here is $121.15 transferring from PayPal membership which is not in the current bank statement.
Balance sheet BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc For the year ending 31 January 2021 vs year ending 31 January 2020, cash basis ACCOUNT ACCOUNT NAME CODE
BALANCE COMPARISON VARIANCE BALANCE (%)
ASSETS CURRENT ASSETS -
Bank - BOQ Premier Investment Acct
$20,352.43
$20,000.00
1.8 %
-
Bank - BMWMCQ Cheque Account
$11,066.01
$7,470.86
48.1 %
11000
Accounts Receivable
-
-$310.00
100.0 %
$31,418.44
$27,160.86
15.7 %
TOTAL CURRENT ASSETS
TOTAL ASSETS $31,418.44 $27,160.86 15.7 % NET ASSETS $31,418.44 $27,160.86 15.7 %
EQUITY 1110
Retained Earnings Surplus/(Accumulated Losses)
-
Current year earnings
$27,160.86
$20,726.46
31.0 %
$4,257.58
$6,434.40
-33.8 %
TOTAL EQUITY $31,418.44 $27,160.86 15.7 %
Page 1 of 1
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FEBRUARY 2021
John Eacott
Committee Reports Treasurer’s Report
Committee Reports John Eacott
FEBRUARY 2021
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Treasurer’s Report
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D
Committee Reports
FEBRUARY 2021
Tony Gray
Secretary’s Report
id you wake up on 1 January 2021, pleased to see the end of 2020, and hopeful of a new year where the Covid pandemic was remembered as a bad dream?
That must have been me because I had planned and booked a trip to Tasmania with my old bike riding mates from my Melbourne days. Alas Covid has not yet been assigned to the waste basket of history and it is my Tasmanian trip that has had to be binned. Closer to home is going to be the order of the day for the foreseeable future. Being flexible and resilient pretty well sums up what the Club has been during 2020 and must continue into 2021. Already we have moved the January General Meeting to the airwaves and deferred the very popular Jolly’s Lookout breakfast to February. We still are very well placed in Queensland compared to a lot of our interstate cousins and almost on another planet compared to the rest of the world – NZ excepted of course. Be thankful for what we have and join in with as many of the Club events as you can – one thing that Covid should have taught us is not to take anything for granted – including getting out on your bike with like-minded friendly souls. A note of caution if you are out and about on your bike based on my recent experiences – a Jetski managed to part company with its tow vehicle on the Brisbane Valley Hwy just before we arrived and then a fallen tree blocked our path on the mid-week ride excellently led and planned by Mark Mustchin. My dear old Mum always maintained that things happen in 3s’ so I am being very careful until #3 shows itself. There has been very little for the Secretary to do over the Christmas holiday period with the club’s Post Office Box empty when I call. Things are hotting up however as we head towards the AGM on 4 March. You will find the Notice of the AGM, Nomination and proxy Forms in this journal. It is an old truism that you get out of something what you are prepared to contribute – this is especially so with clubs such as ours. Participating in any of the regular events, writing an article for our excellent club journal or putting up your hand for a Committee position are several ways to get involved. If you are interested in a Committee position but unsure of what might be entailed then get in touch with me or another member of the committee and we will assist your understanding. New blood is always welcome onto the committee so do not be shy. Tony. Relaxed times in 2017 overlooking a benign Bass Strait at Preservation Bay on Tasmania’s North Coast. Never miss a chance to do something you want to do as we never know what is around the corner!
Committee Reports
FEBRUARY 2021
BMWMCQ Meeting Minutes 14 January 2021 Venue: Zoom Meeting due to Covid Restrictions Meeting Opened: Apologies: Minutes of Previous General Meeting:
7.05 pm Mark Gilbert, Ron Durkin, Maggie Rafanowicz, John Allan, Richard Maher. Accepted: Rosi Johnson Seconded: Duncan Bennett
Number of Attendees: New Members (Name & MC): Visitors: Returning Members: Treasurer Report: Editor Report: Tools Report: Regalia Report: Records Report: Events Report: Secretary Report: Dealer Liaison Report:
Vice President Report: President Report:
Other Events/Buy/Sell/Swap: Past rides: General Business
Closed:
26 Brian Floyd (from Russia with love!) $31K in 2 accounts. $1300 annual donation made to the RFDS. Started the journal - Rob Wynne has lead story crossing the Simpson Desert in 1994. Aiming for publication about the 28th January. Looking for single page short stories with photos. Next service day to be at Rob Wynne residence. Rob not available first 2 weeks April. WL to confirm date with MM. Nothing to report. PH has had a few new shirts made and commented on how good Gold Star Embroidery were to deal with. 247 financial members. 2 new members in January. There were 50 new members in the 2020 calendar year. This is an excellent result in a Covid pandemic restricted year. Jollys Lookout ride has been moved to February due to Covid restrictions. No correspondence in or out. A quiet time for the Secretary but building towards our AGM in March. M&W finding hard to get stock as factory is working with skeleton staff due to Covid. New person engaged to handle parts. Safari is still happening, penned in for March 2021. 10% discount for Club Members on parts & accessories at M&W. Mark G was an apology. Change to meeting and January breakfast occasioned by Covid outbreak in Brisbane leading to restrictions. We need to be flexible. Police Blitz about to happen on Mt G so be careful, avoid weekends if possible. Exhaust noise is top of the Police agenda. BMW Motorrad Rally to be decided by the Committee soon. AGM on 4 March hopefully at the Geebung RSL. Annual return made to Clubs Australia that contained many ‘good stories’ in our report. Looking for people to lead rides. MM reported that GOMA Display on the Art of the Motorcycle is excellent. Club outing there in February. State journals are now on the club website. Clubs Australia Delegates Report - Club Badges are to be changed in line with parent company direction. Karuah River Rally is likely to be canceled for 2021. Classic Group has now organised an event for 12/13 Feb for ride to Crows Nest & Mundubbera in lieu of Karuah River Rally. 7.55pm
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Committee Reports
FEBRUARY 2021
I
Greg Gaffney
Records Officers Report
t was great shopping yesterday without a bloody mask! Hopefully, we can ‘keep or noses clean’ and stay on top of any further outbreaks. I’m looking forward to a great year and participating in more rides. Mark Mustchin has done a fantastic job organising rides, I just wish I could have been on more of them.
Greg Gaffney records@ bmwmcq.org.au
Welcome to New Members : Doug & Julie Cameron THE GAP R1200GS David Whybrew HENDRA G310GS Naydene Barron THORNLANDS R1200GS Gerald Kelder MANSFIELD R65 Jon Reid CHURCHABLE K1200LT Peter Gittoes KANGAROO POINT R1200GS Phill York CARINA R1200GS Marc Robinson RACEVIEW K1600GT Richard Price FIG TREE POCKET R1200GS Craig Bishop MORNINGSIDE R1250 GS Adventure Clive Valte WEST END R9T and R80
Great day for a ride on the Fraser Coast! - Klaus Zillner
Committee Reports Bill Luyten
SERVICE DAY
The Club will hold a Service Day on Saturday 27 March at Rob Wynne’s place starting at 0930. Location: 61-63 Saint Jude Circuit Jimboomba (Just off Mt Lindesay Highway) Note: some GPSs require the suburb to be “Glenlogan” Oil drain pans, oil disposal as well as a comprehensive tool kit is available. We will be providing a Sausage Sizzle (or steaks) and Drinks at very reasonable prices (proceeds to the RFDS). Please let me know if you require specialty tools brought along. There are special tools available (see below list) including the GS-911WiFi and 3 pin diagnostic tools.
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FEBRUARY 2021
Tool’s Report • Compression gauge (cylinder pressure) • Steering head bearing puller and seating tool • Gearbox output flange puller • GS-911 Wi-Fi Diagnostic tool (Wi-Fi and USB Version) • GS-911 3 pin Diagnostic tool (for older bikes) • Tyre Pressure Monitor Sensor (TPMS) tool • Enduralast hall sensor tester • Brake bleeding tool (suction bleeding via the brake caliper) • Compression tester Club Tool Loan: $50 deposit (refundable) for GS911. Tools and spares can be picked up at my place in Springfield or brought along to a monthly meeting or Club ride. Contact Tools Officer
Bill Luyten 0438 123 747 Tools for loan There are special tools available including the GS- email: spares@bmwmcq.org.au 911WiFi and 3 pin diagnostic tools. Special Tools • 34mm socket for rotating crankshaft • Twinmax electronic carburetor balancer (Twin BMW engines) • Vacuumate (electronic synchronization of throttle valves up to 4 cylinders) • Clutch alignment shafts (3 sizes)
Rosi Johnson There are some sample sizes of Club embroidered t-shirts which will be brought along to the monthly meetings and there are many ordering options including using the order form on the following pages! Also, congratulation to our winners of the Lucky Door Prize BMW Shirts - Stuart Wade and Jane Gray. Ride Safely out there, Rosi.
regalia@bmwmcq.org.au
Regalia Report
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2021 REGALIA
FEBRUARY 2021
Lady Shirts
2LPS - $26 65% polyester 35% cotton
Bloke Shirts
210 - $26 65% polyester 35% cotton
2LCP - $27.50 65% polyester 35% cotton
2CP - $27.50 65% polyester 35% cotton
Gender Neutral Hats & Bags
AH695 - $17 Bucket Hat Sandwich Design (with trim)
AH715 - $16 Bucket Hat. Not all that gender neutral.
7LPI - $29.50 100% polyester
7PIP - $29.50 100% polyester
AH230 - $15 Cotton Cap
Metro - black/charcoal or black/royal $20.50
ICE Tee - $24.50 Cotton “I look damn good in this, and I know it” - Dr Marie Curie
ICE Tee - $24.50 Cotton “Best riding shirt ever, did Africa and still going” - Dr D. Livingston
AH742 - $17 100% Wool Beanie
AH770 - $17 100% Cotton Beanie
Swiss charcoal- $35.50
2021 REGALIA
FEBRUARY 2021
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Club order form for shirts, bags and hats Send this form to daniel@goldstarembroidery.com.au or call Daniel on 0403 150 857 Name: ___________________________
Email address:_____________________________________
If delivery is required an additional fee is charged. Delivery required?
Yes or No:______
Delivery address: ______________________________________________________________________ A minimum 50% deposit is required before the order is started. Payment in full is required if Gold Star Embroidery is to organise delivery. An invoice will be emailed after the order form is received. Shirts: Shirt product code number
Quantity
Size
Colour
Bags: Bag product name
Quantity
Colour
Metro Swiss Headwear: Product code number
Quantity
Size
Colour
Cap AH230 - $15 each Bucket Hat Sandwich AH695 - $17 each Bucket Hat AH715 - $16 each Wool Beanie AH742 - $17 each Cotton Beanie AH770 - $17 each
There are also heaps more colours, shirt styles and fabrics available through Gold Star Embroidery - check out the website at goldstarembroidery and call Daniel - he knows all about BMW regalia!
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FEBRUARY 2021
Mark Mustchin
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o need for Mark to say much about anything this month, his events speak louder than words....
Mark at the Bunya Mountains lookout on the first clear day up there since January 23rd, 1935, when it only rained a little bit.
Committee Reports Event’s Report
CANE TOAD 2021
FEBRUARY 2021
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BMWMCQ 2020 Events Calendar BMWMCQ Club Events for FEBRUARY 2021
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Datee Thurs 4 Feb
FEBRUARY 2021
Start 7:30pm
Sun 7 Feb 7:30am Sat 6 Feb
8:00am
Sat 13 Feb
9:00am
Thurs 25 6:00pm Feb Sun 28 Feb
Event Club General Meeting
Details Geebung RSL Club, 323 Newman Road, Geebung QLD. Meals from 6pm
Contact President Paul
ALL WELCOME! Another try for the breakfast Mark Mustchin - Events ride. BYO breakfast to Jolly’s Lookout Mount Nebo, then onto Crows Nest for lunch Coffee Club, Bullcock Beach Richard de Groot - Sunny Coast Riders
Monthly Club Ride - Jolly’s Lookout
Sunny Coast Riders Coffee Club morning Coffee Meet Up
Gallery of Modern Art to have a Mark Mustchin - Events coffee then visit the “Motorcycle Design, Art, Desire” Exhibit
German Club Dinner
Brisbane German Club 416 Vulture Street East Brisbane Destination is Linville Hotel, Linville - make your own way there!
12:30pm Club Lunch Ride
Mark Mustchin - Events Mark Mustchin - Events
EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS CALENDAR Date 23 May
Event Distinguished Gents Ride
Location TBC
Contact https://www.gentlemansride.com
“Our Rally” Get ready for 2021...
FEBRUARY 2021 BMWMCQ 2020 Events Calendar BMWMCQ Club Events for MARCH 2021
Datee Thurs 4 Mar
Start 7:30pm
Sat 6 Mar 8:00am Sun 7 Mar
7:30am
Sat 13 Mar
9:00am
Sun 14 9:00am Mar Sun 20 9:30am Mar Thurs 25 6:00pm Mar Sat 27 Mar
9:00am
Event Club AGM Sunny Coast Riders Coffee Club morning Club Monthly Ride
Coffee Meet Up
Club Lunch Ride Ride, Canoe, Camp German Club Dinner Club Service Day
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Details Geebung RSL Club, 323 Newman Road, Geebung QLD. Meals from 6pm
Contact President Paul
Coffee Club, Bullcock Beach
Richard de Groot - Sunny Coast Riders
Ride to Imbil - ride leader needed! Meet at Caltex Carseldine
Mark Mustchin - Events
Cafe 63, 185 Redcliffe Parade, Redcliffe
Mark Mustchin - Events
Meet at BP Blacksoil to head to “One Tree Farm” for a canoe trek
Mark Mustchin - Events
61-63 St Judes Cct Jimboomba
Bill Luyten - Tools
TBA
Mark Mustchin - Events
Brisbane German Club Vulture Street, East Brisbane
Mark Mustchin - Events
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FEBRUARY 2021
Notice of Annual General Meeting
Notice of Annual General Meeting of the BMW Motorcycle Club Queensland Inc.
The Annual General Meeting of the Club will be held at Geebung RSL, 323 Newman Rd, Geebung Qld 4034, at 7:30PM on March 4th 2021.
The Agenda of the meeting is as follows: 1.
Acceptance of the 2020 AGM minutes
3.
Presentation of the Financial accounts
2.
4.
Management Committee Report
Election of Committee members
Special Resolutions 1. Any Special resolutions presented under the rules of the Constitution (30 days notice) The General Meeting for March 2021 will follow the AGM. Tony Gray Secretary BMWMCQ
2020 Annual General Meeting Minutes
FEBRUARY 2021
BMWMCQ Annual General Meeting Minutes March 2020 Meeting Date:
5 March 2020. Time: 7:30pm
Chairman: Apologies:
Attendance: 46 Paul Hughes/Tony Gray Cindy & Duncan Bennett,Maggie & George Rafanowicz, Mal Cramer,
Minutes of Previous AGM:
Liz Healy, John Allan, Craig Brennan. Accepted: Rosi Johnson
Outgoing Presidents Report:
Outgoing Committee Member Reports:
Seconded: Geoff Hodge Presidents Report included Events report that was handled by the Committee to cover the vacancy in this position. There has been a full calendar of varied events to try to cater for all members. Thanks to the committee for their work this past year and to the members for their support of the club. Committee members presented their review of the year. Greg Gaffney mentioned there are currently 233 members of the Association. Cindy & Duncan Bennett submitted a written report which was read by Paul Hughes. Mention was made that C&D will be unable to complete the full year as they will be touring overseas for an extended period in early 2021. New blood is needed in this vital role.
Outgoing Treasurer Report:
VP Richard Maher has announced that he will not be re-nominating for the role this year for personal family reasons. Thanks extended to Richard to his contribution over many years. Motion to accept the tabled documents moved by John Eacott: Seconded by: Richard de Groot
2020 Committee Nominations:
Accepted by the members present. Nominations received prior to meeting by the Secretary. A call was made to the floor for any other nomination as each position was called. No other nominations were received so all nominees were elected uncontested. President: Paul Hughes Vice President: Mark Gilbert Secretary: Tony Gray Treasurer: John Eacott Records: Greg Gaffney Tools: Bill Luyten Regalia: Roswitha Johnson Events: Mark Mustchin Editor: Cindy & Duncan Bennett
Special Resolution: Closed:
Dealer Liaison: Don Grimes Nil 8.20 pm
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FEBRUARY 2021
Annual General Meeting Forms
BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc. Proxy Form I,
(member name)
of _______________________________________________________ being a current financial member of the BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc. (‘the Club’) hereby appoint ____________________________________________ of _________________________________________________
(name of proxy)
or failing him/her, ____________________________________ of _________________________________________________
(name of alternate proxy)
as my proxy to vote for me on my behalf at the Annual General Meeting of the Club to be held on 4 March 2021 and at any adjournment thereof. Signature:___________________________________ Date:________________________________
FEBRUARY 2021 FROM THE PEN OF JANE GRAY Glimmers of Hope JEGJan2021
We each have our stories with some never told While others declare them for all to behold Entire countries in Lockdown as we’ve never seen So grateful for memories of places we’ve been Family and friends cut off from each other Accepting the masks that save not smother Each nation’s response has varied a lot Some showing success but many others not The statistics abroad are sombre and grim Graveyards and hospitals full to the brim It’s not over yet with more waves to come Time is limited unfortunately for some Try not to look back on the year we’ve just had For most of the world it’s been nothing but sad With little fanfare the New Year is upon us There are glimmers of hope but that’s not a promise The light in the tunnel is still very small But beckons brightly to one and all We’re called The Lucky Country & now we know why Our COVID response has kept spirits high Lockdowns & closed borders we’ve dealt with, that’s true But numbers are low and clusters are few The world as we knew it may not reappear But we have to have hope for a brighter New Year
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FEBRUARY 2021
IMPROVISATION By Tony Gray, Member #3905
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e have all no doubt heard the term use it or lose it? It can and does apply to our riding skills as much as to our physical and mental well-being. Have you returned from a long riding trip where you have ridden daily over mixed terrain and then have your riding buddies comment on how smoothly you are riding and how clean your cornering lines have become? The reverse equally applies where after a long time off the bike you have to take things very carefully as you familiarise with what once had been second nature. In the workshop the physical part of the equation is easily understood with bending, crouching, lying, leaning, standing, lifting putting our bodies through a fair range of movement as well as the application of muscular force when required. This can be a good physical workout for an ageing or out of condition body. The mental part may not be so easily understood or resolved. If we undertake a process in the correct manner and then repeat the actions regularly it will likely become easy and no longer require much mental input. For example I look at old footage of female workers in the Spandau BMW factory hand painting the pin-striping on airhead fuel tanks. The precision and artistry is impressive indeed but I do wonder how much thought was actually being applied if they were painting their 100th tank for the week? https://youtu.be/mSq3u8Pppxc Now put yourself in your own work-cave (no man-caves here, we are pluralist) where each day presents its own challenges. If you perform regular services on your bike then you will have equipped yourself with the necessary tools to complete those routine service tasks. For the more complicated repair work you may require a factory tool that may be unobtainable for a mere mortal or so prohibitively expensive that you end up sending your bike to a workshop after all. Here is a very expensive and difficult to buy factory tool to
MAINTENANCE CORNER
ease the replacement of the alternator belt on hexhead/camhead R1200 boxer motors. This is out of the reach of most home mechanics but the task can be performed with a slightly higher degree of difficulty using a 34mm socket with ratchet handle and a thin strip of flexible plastic.
So what are your other options? You could join a specialised club like the BMWMCQ already a member, excellent - tools are available for use at the club service days or for loan to individual members. You could also take a trip to one of the many excellent specialist Tool Shops around town, you might be surprised at the diversity of hand tools available to perform unusual tasks in difficult to access positions. Another alternative is to improvise. My process is to analyse the exercise at hand and try to work out a solution using what I have available. The excellent Haynes Manuals often offer a ‘home alternative’ to using a factory tool. Then there is the internet which is a veritable Aladdin’s Cave of potential solutions. Take care however as some of these ‘solutions’ are worth exactly what you are paying for them – nothing! If you are a real thinker of the ‘Heath Robinson’* variety then your solutions may be outlandish but if it achieves the required end result then all power to you. An arc welder is a worthwhile investment for your home workshop and with a little bit of practice you can shape various pieces of scrap metal into what your project demands. If you are not that way inclined then work out what you want and seek out a local light engineering
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shop and get something fabricated. All of these potential solutions require the use of our often neglected brain so this is good neural exercise. Here are a few tools fabricated over the years for different bikes in the Gray Workshop.
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So next time you are heading off to the workshop for a little bit of bike maintenance therapy instead of mowing the lawn or hoovering the house, resolve that you are really undertaking your daily exercise program. Happy spannering.
*Heath Robinson was an English Cartoonist noted for his depictions of complicated solutions to often simple problems. His works became famous before and during the First World War and the term ‘Heath Robinson solution’ entered the lexicon. Famously the British codebreakers at Bletchley Park who invented what could be called the World’s First Computer to crack the German Cipher Machine in WW2 called it Heath Robinson.
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RIDE, CANOE & CAMP
Meet at the BP Blacksoil for a 9.30 Departure (route TBA) stopping for lunch along the way with a planned arrival at One Tree Farm at about 3pm. We will enjoy a leisurely canoe paddle on the Brisbane River paddling towards the Lowood Bend than return to the farm for a relaxing gourmet picnic platter & glass of wine on the bank of the river. The paddle will take about 2 hours & is only a distance of about 6k’s depending on how straight you can paddle the canoe. Double & single canoes available. The cost per person is $75.00 pp for the canoeing & Gourmet Picnic Platter. Payment to Mark Mustchin prior to event date would be appreciated. Camping on site is available at no additional cost for club members who take part in the paddle. Campers can spend the evening around the campfire enjoying your favourite beverage. Numbers are limited to 12 so if you’re interested book your place early. Your hosts at One Tree Farm (located on the banks of the Brisbane River at Vernor) are Dan & Sue, Dan runs One Tree Canoe Company & manufactures quality composite canoes on site.
GLANCE BACK TO BREAKFAST RIDE
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Words by Gary Bennett, Member #509 Source: Various Club Journals
The Annual January Breakfast Ride Records are a bit sketchy, but the first Club Ride of the year has been a breakfast ride since 1994. It appears that “Rolling Surf” in Caloundra was the original destination with following years rotating between Caloundra, Wivenhoe Lookout and Wivenhoe Outlook. The two Wivenhoe destinations came about by members getting confused between the two and members split between both locations on the same day. In 1999 it was held at Jolly’s Lookout on Mt. Nebo Rd. and has been held there ever since. It was a led ride in the early years but then moved to everyone find their own way there. It’s a pleasant ride up through the mountain range with a spectacular view to greet you when you arrive at the lookout. There is plenty of parking space, picnic tables and BBQ’s. It’s a favourite on a lot of club member’s calendars. After breakfast if you are keen for a further ride to kick off the year, there is a normally a led ride ride to lunch - this year to the Grand Old Crow Hotel in Crows Nest.
From the cover of the Journal in February 2011 “Members starting off the year with the Jollys Lookout Breakfast Ride”.
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DGR - 2021
FEBRUARY 2021
Date for the 2021 ride is Sunday 23rd May! Register at: https://www.gentlemansride.com/#2021
BMW CLUBS AUSTRALIA
FEBRUARY 2021
by John Eacott, BMW Clubs Australia Delegate
BMWMCQ Delegate’s Report Below is a copy of a letter from the office of the Premier of Tasmania in relation to the free travel for bikes on the Spirit of Tasmania which is now in place! Dear Mr Eacott Thank you for your email in relation to the Australian Government’s injection of $6 million into Tasmanian tourism by making it free for Spirit of Tasmania passengers to take their cars and motorbikes to our State. This will be a great boost to passenger vehicle bookings on the TTLine, providing much-needed relief to our tourism industry. The free travel applies to all new bookings between 1 March 2021 and 30 June 2021, unless sold out prior, and Australians can take their car - or motorbike - to Tasmania at zero cost. Bookings will open on/after 14 January 2021, and when travellers book their ticket, the rebate will automatically apply to the purchase price of the ticket. This is a win-win for both Tasmanians and visitors looking to discover more of what our State has to offer. It also represents an average saving of around $240 return for travellers. For more information, see www.spiritoftasmania.com.au/sailing-fares/specials/bring-your-carfor-free Thank you for writing to me. Yours sincerely Hon Peter Gutwein MP Premier of Tasmania Treasurer Minister for Climate Change Minister for the Prevention of Family Violence Minister for Tourism Level 11, 15 Murray Street HOBART TAS 7000 Phone: (03) 6165 7650 Email: premier@dpac.tas.gov.au web: www.premier.tas.gov.au
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TIP ‘O THE MONTH
A great suggestion from John Eacott is a regular segment called “Tip of the Month” - this was a popular section in the BeeEm Journal and John has kindly started the ball rolling with his tip below. Please let us know your top tips and there may be a sneaky prize in the wings (stay tuned....)
February Tip of the Month: When you’re faced with the inevitable challenge of getting your motorbike jacket or pants ready for the wash, getting the armour out and back in again can be frustrating, to say the least. Many, but not all, pants and some jackets can be turned ‘inside out’ making the armour easily accessed. Try it and see if it works for you!
JANUARY COFFEE MORNING PICS
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And one from December coffee morning at Anstead
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Kindly sent to the BMWMCQ by Lyn Dyne after printing in the BMWMOC Gold Coast Newletter - a perfect story to align with Dakar. By Kevin Devine. Photos Rob Wynne, Member #585 ‘Off Centre Run - Mt Dare Homestead’
T
he story of 3 of our members and their 3 mates in 1994 -
It was 3.30am on Friday, 5th August when a group of six intrepid souls with overloaded machinery underneath them ventured out from Kevin’s place to commence a great adventure which would take them across some of the most inhospitable areas in this country. Months of preparation and planning had gone into this trip by the ‘Boys’ and now the time had come. The group consisted of Rob Wynne R100GS, Kevin Devine R100GSPD, Wayne Roberts R100GSPD, Graham Watt R80, Peter Malouf (Lenny) R100/7 and Peter Day R100GS. First stop, Toowoomba where it was freezing. Hot coffee was ordered and a chance to thaw out before pushing on to Dalby for breakfast. Headed off towards Moonie and St.George ending the day at Cunnamulla at a pub where we took advantage of bed and breakfast for $12. The road between Dalby and Cunnamulla was so straight and boring we decided to traverse the table drain to break the monotony. Saturday morning headed off in the direction of Thargomindah.
Wayne, Lenny, Kevin, Graham, Rob at Thargo
OFF CENTRE RUN 1994 On the way Lenny hit a roo taking off his blinker and bending the oil cooler. After assessing the damage and moving on it was not long before another incident occurred. Rob hit an eagle which was unfortunate to be too slow on takeoff from the ground but if that wasn’t enough, Graham also hit the poor bird. We eventually pulled into Thargomindah for a couple of beers to quench the thirst. Rob promised to show us the thermal bores but missed the turn. From Thargomindah the bitumen narrowed down to one lane so we did most of our riding on the side of the roadway. As boys will be boys, we held speedway races on the clay pan for a bit of fun.
Clay pan speedway We thereupon sped on to Noccundra which was a detour from the main route to visit the pub for a coldie. The pub is the only building in sight and in the old days travellers would sign their names on the walls, doors and anywhere there was space. Unfortunately the adorned walls etc. have since been painted over and consequently some authentic history has been lost forever. (If only the walls could talk, what tales they could tell). Headed off onto the main track which took us through Jackson oil fields and where the oil pumps can still be seen along the roadside. It was at this point that we kissed the bitumen goodbye. We set up camp for the night about 50kms after leaving the tar at sundown under a tree. It is to be noted here that certain rules were laid down for the trip. A $1 fine was imposed each time a bike was dropped. Confessions were held every morning and for those caught out, the fine was $5.
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End of the bitumen Sunday, away early with Graham heading off first followed by Rob. Kevin and Peter were travelling at 90 km/h when Kevin and his bike parted company. $600 worth of bits were lost in the process. In the meantime, Rob was waiting near a huge bulldust hole hoping to catch some action on film when the others caught up whilst Graham, not aware of the drama, waited one and a half hours 30 kms up the road.
Kevin’s bike repairs On route to Coopers Creek we saw the message at “Dig Tree” turnoff left by Dick Barrington and the NSW boys. Moved on to Innamincka via Coopers Creek where there is now a huge new bridge. Crossed into South Australia and had some fun on one of the small dunes. At Innamincka we met up with the NSW boys and the Swiss who came out to this country every second year for the OCR challenge wherever it may be. We all went out to the cairn whilst it was still light to partake of a few hot beers - (a long standing tradition only those who travel this route would understand).
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Bulldust hole Must mention also at this point that the NSW boys failed in their fishing efforts at Coopers Creek.
Monday, for a bit of fun, eight brave souls decided to ride on Lenny’s bike. Bodies fell off everywhere. Took Walkers Crossing route, a short cut to Birdsville, picking up the Birdsville Track 120 kms south of Birdsville. A good route for the dirt boys but you have to have guts to do it. The Ranger had told us that the road was closed because someone had shot the farmer’s cows but we went that way regardless. 40 kms out of Innamincka Wayne had his first puncture. Later on the same day he had another. This was a very rough track and very sandy. The top end of Walkers Crossing is like being on the moon surface. This is part of Sturts Stony Desert - aptly named. Onto the Birdsville Track and 100 kms later arrived at the Birdsville Hotel where we informed by a police officer that Dick Barrington had fallen off Richard Green’s R65. Apparently the bike had a padded landing on Dick’s spleen. Our enquiries revealed that Dick had been taken off to the Longreach Hospital.
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OFF CENTRE RUN 1994
make an assault on the desert (Big Red). A few goodbyes were passed around to some of the Queensland Club members and a short chat to my friend Herbie from the NSW Club who was in a four-wheel drive, telling him that if we didn’t make it to Mt Dare on Sunday, to come and get us - we would be in big trouble by then. “No worries mate” he replied sucking on his twentieth tin of green death.
Dump that tyre and put the knobbies on Going back four years, on the 7th July 1990, Lennie Pascoe (NSW Club), Trevor Dean and myself headed west on a six week trip to Mt Augustus in far off Western Australia. We had planned a different route through the Simpson Desert over what is called the “French Line”. Having been harassed by the police officer at Birdsville for trying this crossing, we were informed that if we failed, no rescue would be available and a spell in the cells would be guaranteed. Without adequate background information and not being properly prepared, we were in trouble at the first dune. 50 litres of petrol, 12 litres of water, too much gear and the wrong tyres led to our defeat after only 4-5 dunes into the desert. After some soul searching, it was decided a tactical withdrawal was necessary. There is no more bitter pill to swallow than defeat, so like General Macarthur we returned for another attempt.
Day 1 The last supper was held at the Birdsville Pub, ‘one stubbie and a pie thanks’ and we were ready to go. With a tyre change, servicing, refuel and drums of water on board, we are now ready to
The 30 kms down to the first dune was lousy to say the least. Over-loaded and a full knobby on the back left me with the feeling that every weld on my bike had been made of chewing gum. Similar comments were heard from everyone else. “Well boys, I said, “we can stand here all day and bullshit but the truth of the matter is the bullshit stops here, let’s do it”. Everyone being full of enthusiasm, we charged at the first dune but no one made it over. We were all bogged very close to the top but with a short push, we were all over the top and away.
The first 150 kms west to the NT border, Poepples Corner to be exact, produced the largest dunes we were to encounter. Each dune was separated by a long flat of approximately half a kilometre which reminded us of waves in
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the ocean, spaced out. These flats were our only chance for a rest. Then the tactics were simple. Get into second gear as fast as possible, stand up on the pegs and lean back but not too fast, (the sand and the roughness of the flats dictating the pace), then as one approached the dune itself, about half throttle was the go and as the bike slowed, give it the lot on the way up. All too easy I thought for a while but then the trouble started. Riding on a virgin four-wheel drive track seemed to be the best way to go. With a reshuffle of bikes at the top of one dune, I soon realised just how difficult this sand was. When two bikes had gone up the same track in front, the surface was left like powder then life really became hell. We all suffered many drops and the sweat ran like a river from our bodies.
I had been riding up front with Lenny. He would sit in the left lane from Birdsville to Purnie Bore which is the end of the sand. He was thereafter aptly named ‘Left Lane Lenny’.
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contemplated but it was decided to do another half an hour and find a spot with more wood. At this stage the boys were reluctant to confess to a fall so as not to impose a $5 fine. It was a novelty at first to cover up but eventually the truth emerged. Rob’s fingers were running hot on the electronic organiser and the cash was collected for drinks at the Mt Dare Pub.
At this stage we were all a little in awe at the beauty and size of the desert. I personally found it most relaxing. It is somewhere I have wanted to be for a very long time and now finally we were here to savour the moment. After sweating profusely all day and then the temperature dropping to a chilly -4°C overnight, a quick change of clothes was the order of the day. Over a can of stew that evening someone made the comment that if it is this easy, it will be disappointing. No one was to be disappointed. The rum bottle was passed around the camp fire and the odd yarn was to be heard about days gone by when a cat walked between Rob’s legs and continued on right up to the fire. It left us with the impression that it was blind because it made no attempt to run away. Day 2
Eyre Creek Around 5 pm we came to a place called Eyre Creek which was about three and a half metres deep with steep banks of pure bulldust. Once this was negotiated an evening camp was
We were all on our feet by 6am. It was freezing cold and yet there was no moisture to be seen on the bike seats or any-where else for that matter. At this point we all took the opportunity to move 5 litres of fuel up front to the main tanks. With everything packed up and ready to go, ‘Left Lane Lenny’ gave us all the laugh of the day when he came out of the bushes with a cardboard winged keel strapped to his back with the words: ‘BMW Winged Keel Stabiliser’ written on the side.
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OFF CENTRE RUN 1994 if we could get a straight run at it, success was guaranteed.
Lenny’s BMW Winged Keel Stabiliser A note of caution was passed around at the amount of fuel consumed after travelling only about 60 kms. At this point it was decided that everyone would keep 5 litres in reserve in case we did not have enough. This way, the last 30 litres could be placed in two bikes (15 litres each) and they could be sent ahead to get more supplies and fuel. Heading west across the desert, the righthand side of the track had yellow pegs at 5 km intervals, which are spaced according to the lay of the land. In other words, actual distance travelled. On the left side there was a set of geo-detic fixes at 5 km intervals measuring the distance as the crow flies. Therefore because we were travelling up and down the dunes, the distance would be more like 6 to 6½ km instead of the 5 km as marked. The day was long and arduous. Some of the dunes were really large and up to 18 metres high. This did not necessarily present a problem,
Unfortunately Murphy’s Law made it a bit more difficult. Throwing in a dog’s leg half way up would ultimately see a couple of us down and out. This of course meant that a push over the top was required by two of your best friends. Exhaustion was taking its toll. The leading two riders, one in each wheel track, would go as far as they physically could, usually no more than two to three dunes and then stop just over the crest leaving enough room for the next two desperates to park once they made it up. In this manner, anyone falling off required those up ahead to walk back from the dune where they were parked to give a push. Because of the sandy conditions there was no way in which the leading bikes or any bikes for that matter, could turn around.
Lake Thomas About 100 kms our, some long flats were encountered being in fact large salt lakes. At one of these (Lake Thomas according to the map), Wayne managed to get a flat front tyre. Later on in the afternoon we crossed a fairly large lake only
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to find a dead stop ahead and the track turning flat. It is times like this that you know you are 90 degrees to the south. This point was the NT having an adventure but at times you wish you border. The next 20 km section was paradise. For were home in bed. some unknown reason the road down to Poeppel’s Corner is clay running alongside a large lake full of salt. This prompted some doughnuts to be executed - a mistake we decided that night as it was a waste of precious fuel.
Poeppel’s Corner here somewhere 20 kms south, a sharp turn to the west meant that Poeppel’s Corner was here somewhere. Three months later and we are all still looking for the corner peg. Apparently there is an emergency radio at the Corner. After the turn west the going became horrendous. The dunes were now small but close together so there was no chance of a runup in between, nothing but soft sand.
And again After covering only 5 kms everyone was exhausted so a camp was established on a long flat to our north. First strip off the wet clothes, climb into some dry gear then into the muesli bars for energy. Rob then enquired as to whether I was going to fix my front flat. I didn’t dare look. Having travelled in the soft sand, I was not aware of the
Day 3 Sleep was a commodity in abundance; just lie down and it was all over. During the night the dingoes had visited our camp and made off with Lennie’s boots. They were easily found but somewhat chewed. Not five minutes out of camp that morning and I was in trouble. I could not, for the life of me, get the bike straight. I was later to discover that the end-o at Jackson earlier in the trip had bent the piston off my front brake and any attempt to use it left the piston depressed (brake on). Not the best in sand when this problem occurs. The rules were simple - don’t go anywhere near the front brakes. 131 kms was all we could achieve this day which was probably the hardest I have ever experienced. We passed Knolls Track about 35 kms out of camp which was heartening because we could get some idea of
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where we were on the map. Another 38 kms of hell saw us at the Ebaneeze Track turnoff to the south. These tracks are quite inviting because they are all clayed over and seem to be the easy way out, but not for us. Another 53 kms put us at the Colson Track and all agree to declare for the day. Throwing my swag on the ground and falling down half dead, I start on a packet of dried fruit and nuts. Looking around surprised by the silence, I notice everyone is doing the same, exhausted bodies with sore arms, legs and stomach muscles.
OFF CENTRE RUN 1994 suddenly down a dune we went, to arrive at a long flat area, Purnie Bore. The mere sight of this running pool had us all stripped off and into the water in a matter of minutes. Whilst up to our necks in bore water, Peter declared he would go into Mt Dare 150 kms for fuel and food so we all nominated Graham to go with him. All Graham could say was ‘mmm’ (a man of very few words).
Purnie Bore Later that evening Peter and Graham were loaded and sent off on what was thought to be a 300 km round trip to Mt Dare. The excess fuel was left behind just in case it was a long wait for the rest of us. We then decided to eat and a smorgasbord of tinned grub was thrown into the pot. That was probably the worst feed I have ever had. Settling down for the night it was decided to finish the remaining half bottle of OP.
Day 4 The bikes were losing weight faster than any Jenny Craig Diet, not to mention the riders. Fuel and water were disappearing fast but the bikes felt just as heavy due to our exhaustion. We were getting no more than 8 kms to the litre and it was obvious that we did not have enough fuel to get through to Mt Dare. The battle continued all day with no let up with 68 kms being all that we could manage when
Around 8.30 pm with merely a mouthful of rum left, the sound of a motor vehicle pierced the silence. Many blinding spotlights later a four-wheel drive door opened and a voice said: “Would you like a beer?” At first I thought this was a visitation from God. It turned out to be Peter and Graham. They
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had travelled the 60 kms west to Dalhousie Springs and just by chance found Herbie and the four-wheel drive crew. What a stroke of luck. Later the fourwheel drive returned to Dalhousie Springs and we would join them in the morning around 10 am. The road to Dalhousie Springs was a mixture of potholes, bulldust, hard clay and corrugations. Some of the four-wheel driver’s we met in the desert all said it was horrendous but after three days in deep sand, it was a bit better than the freeway. The Final Chapter The first point of interest on the road to Mt Dare was an Emergency Radio standing on a pole at the side of the road. A few photographs were taken, then off to Dalhousie Springs. This was an interesting place. When we arrived all the NSW crew were there and their Swiss Connection. They were just about to leave on a guided tour with the local Ranger so it was off with the helmets and away we went. It is truly amazing just how much water is in this great artesian basin.
Filling up the waterbottles at Dalhousie Springs The ride to Mt Dare was uneventful, the track being flat and stony and it was accomplished without any drama. Mt Dare is nothing more than a cattle station-come service station-come pub. Nevertheless the beer was cold and who cares where it is. The next day and a half were something of a blur. I spent all my time in the pub on the first day only to repeat the exercise the second day. Oh well, the only things to suffer from this were my wallet and my head. Beer: $3.50 a can or at the bargain price of $65.00 per slab! (in 1994!).
Mt Dare Pub Having said our goodbyes to all our friends from all over Australia, it was time to be off in the general direction of Alice Springs. A wide open dirt road prompted a turn of speed. 140 to 160 km/hr was the order of the day. This lasted for about five minutes as a dozen station horses decided they liked the grass on the other side of the road and a speeding motorcycle was not going to deter them. 80 km/hr seemed appropriate for the rest of the ride to Finke. Finke can be left on the bottom of one’s list of places to see. Like all missions, it was filthy dirty and derelict. It was here that the party decided to split up with Rob and Peter making a beeline for Alice. Actually we were not to part company for another 200 kms until Rodinga, an old railway station on the Ghan, whilst Graham, Lenny, Wayne and myself would head for Chambers Pillar.
Finke River Road Leaving the petrol bowser at Finke, I thought the challenge of this trip was now over. Think again. Not half a kilometre out and straight into the Finke River bed and muffler deep sand.
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This road is in fact the old Ghan Railway Line and the annual Finke Desert Race is run along this road. Need I say more as to its condition. Arriving at the ruins of Rodinga, I noticed Wayne and Rob standing on top of a large water tower taking photographs.
OFF CENTRE RUN 1994 Camp was set up just on dusk at the Pillar and the cans were being consumed at a great rate of knots (salvaged from the four-wheel drive at Mt Dare). Next day camp was broken early and then an inspection of the Pillar was carried out. The scenery from the top was breathtaking to say the least. There are a number of names carved into the rocks, one being the explorer Charles Sturt dated circa 1800. The run to Alice Springs was uneventful. Here we joined Rob and Peter together with the NSW boys and the North Queensland members.
At this point Rob and Peter headed north and the rest of us turned west for Chambers Pillar, the road being just another mini desert all the way out except for a large jump-up which gave us spectacular views of Chambers Pillar itself. A welcome shower and change and out to downtown Alice for dinner. Later we returned to the caravan park for a few quiet ones and nice warm firs. The following morning it was time to point our wheels eastward. The remainder of the trip home, well, that’s another story.
It is to be noted that there was not a single mechanical problem. Six bikes - 48,000 kms in total. It doesn’t get much tougher than this trip. A good recommendation for the Boxer SHEER RIDING PLEASURE
GOMA - THE MOTORCYCLE
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THE MOTORCYCLE DESIGN, ART, DESIRE 28 NOV 2020-26 APR 2021 This world-exclusive exhibition, only in Brisbane, will showcase the art, design and history of one of the most iconic objects of the last 150 years, the motorcycle. Featuring more than 100 innovative and influential motorcycles from the 1860s to present day, it will consider the iconic vehicle from the perspective of social history, popular culture, design and technology The exhibition will tap into the appeal of this enduring object of design and art, looking at the motorcycle’s past, present and future. Highlights of the exhibition will include: • An 1871 Perreaux, the first steam-powered velocipede and oldest known motorcycle in the world; • The earliest Australian-designed and built machines, including a Spencer produced in Brisbane in 1906; • The 1951 Vincent Black Lightning that set an Australian land speed record in its day and more recently a world record for the highest price paid at auction for a motorcycle; • Symbols of speed including the 1930s Triumph Speed Twin, the 1970s Ducati 750 Super Sport, and the 1990s Britten V1000; • Off-road motorcycles highlighting a rich history of bikes built for dust and dirt; • Customised motorcycles at the intersection of art and design; • Ultra-modern electric motorcycles, demonstrating the future of transportation in the age of renewable energy.
https://www.qagoma.qld.gov.au/whats-on/exhibitions/the-motorcycle
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By Tony Gray, Member #3905 Most people around the world would agree that 2020 was a pretty horrible year so could not wait until 2021 rolled over and allowed a little more sunshine to radiate into their lives. There is one thing that we cannot predict with certainty and that is the future. At time of writing (the New Year fireworks smoke has just settled) I am closely watching the Covid State border closures and how it might affect a proposed trip to Tassie from the end of January. Why risk it you might well ask? Well I answer, why not? We can sit around forever waiting for the planets to align perfectly and that might never happen so do you continue to just sit? Alternatively you can bite the bullet and have a go – avoiding known risks in our case.
This is also a good time for reflection as Queensland prepares to remember the devastating floods that occurred 10 years ago. Do you remember what your plans were on 1 January 2011 or where you were? Jane and I were holidaying with our family at Peregian Beach on the Sunshine Coast and I had taken Rex the Kwaka along to get in some day rides around the hinterland. The Gray Ghost had only
WHAT LIES AHEAD IN 2021? recently returned home from her first European adventure in late 2010 so it was Rex’s turn for some fun miles. The weather had started to turn nasty with reports of flooding starting in Bundaberg from the after effects of TC Tasha in North Qld. I decided to head home a day early in what quickly degenerated into torrential rain. Riding down the M1 in very light traffic I had assumed that I was the only soul brave (stupid?) enough to be riding a bike in those conditions. I was wrong. Trundling along in the left hand lane was an early model Honda Gold Wing outfit. As I sploshed past I managed a feeble wave to a fellow traveller. A bit further down the tar I decided that Rex and I both needed a drink so we pulled into a highway servo to be followed in soon after by the Wing. The usual biker banter ensued – G’day; How ya’ goin’? Wet eh? Fancy a kawfee? Yeah! Following this intellectual exchange ‘old mate’ and me re-joined to the café where we proceeded to cause a minor flood while waiting for our kawfee. The story that ensued was a gem. ‘Old mate’ (let’s just call him Bill) asked if I had ever ridden an outfit which gave me the chance to regale a old story of being passenger in a Suzuki Water-bottle Outfit in North Qld being ridden by a drug crazed madman with a death wish. I was 20yo at the time and the experience of being suspended in mid-air in a potential coffin had cured me of any desire to be in an outfit again.
A picture of a Suzuki GT750 ‘Water-Bottle’ that terrorised me in my youth when attached to a sidecar. It had a 3 cylinder 2 stroke engine with chain drive.
WHAT LIES AHEAD IN 2021? I am happy to report that I have since ridden and been a passenger in a Ural outfit and thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I was surprised with Bill’s admission that this was his first time riding an outfit. This was somewhat surprising given the conditions in which we were riding. Now Bill was not a young man with probably a decade on me (or maybe just a hard life?) with a long flowing (as in wet) beard of which Richard Maher would be proud.
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market so when this one appeared Bill acted. In summary here was someone who was prepared to fly halfway around the country into horrendous weather conditions to purchase a bike sight unseen, of a type he had never ridden, of a vintage (mid 1970’s) where ageing components could be expected to fail and then travel 6,500km home in 10 days. To make matters worse a filling had fallen out of a tooth on the flight over that was giving him curry. I bid Bill farewell and good luck on his trip home and wondered what lay ahead for this intrepid traveller. Little did I know at that time what awaited a large number of the residents of S-E Qld with death and destruction in the form of the devastating floods? In hindsight that long road trip on a Gold Wing outfit may have been a whole lot more enjoyable. Bring on Tassie!
Happy times riding a Ural Outfit in 2019 It transpired that Bill had just purchased the outfit sight unseen off the internet. Where from I asked? Bundaberg! But I have seen the news and Bundaberg is flooding! Yes it certainly is came Bill’s reply, and I had God’s trouble getting out of there with multiple road closures. The next question was an obvious one, where ya’ headed? Home! Brisbane? Nah, Karratha! You mean the one in the Pilbara WA? Yeah. That’s a long way! Nah not too far, I’ve got 10 days leave from the mines so plenty of time (I subsequently looked at the mileage involved in the longer southerly route that Bill was undertaking – approx. 6,500km). It was not possible to ride the shorter northerly route due to the floods. Bill’s story was that he was a crane operator on the wharves who liked to do a spot of fishing. His solo bike couldn’t carry the gear he needed and was a handful in the sand so he saw an outfit as an ideal solution. Not many outfits came onto the
Here is a picture of a first Generation Honda Goldwing of the type ridden by Bill. It had a watercooled horizontally opposed (a la BMW) 1,000cc 4 cylinder engine with shaft drive.
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FEBRUARY 2021
JANUARY MID WEEK RIDE
he weather did not look promising but a large group (mostly not bringing any wet weather gear...) assembled at Base Camp Coffee at North Lakes ready to tackle a repeat of Mark Mustchin’s December ride (which sadly only had one other taker). Up the ever popular Campbell’s Pocket Road to Mt Mee and heading down to Woodford we then hung a right and then another right to Commissioners Flat Road where we were stopped by a downed tree just before Peachester (must just have happened as we were first in line), blocking both lanes. The cavalry leapt off bikes and firstly dragged and then chopped (thanks to Duncan’s trusty tomahawk he carries in his topbox!) to get it off the road. In no time we were back on the road and now getting damp, prompting a stop at the Peachester cafe for a coffee and donning of wet weather gear. The final push to Sandstone Point Hotel near the Bribie Island bridge was dry but cloudy leaving those in the wet weather gear in a semi-sauna state. A very pleasant lunch under the trees at Sandstone Point was had. Thanks to Mark Mustchin for a top ride. The definite benefit of a mid-week ride is the lack of other traffic, so all you worker-bees how about taking a well earned day off and come along to the next one - you won’t regret it!
XMAS PARTY PICS...
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I know it was ages ago, but we haven’t had a Journal published since the Christmas Party on 5 December at Bribie Island RSL - great night had by all.
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WHEN HUMANS PLAN,
By Steve & Meredith Herpich, Members #4294 no stopping, luckily traffic lights were in our favour and we did not step on the Blue Mountains. So & #4295 (Port Macquarie, NSW) Motorcycling Through 3 Australian States during a Pandemic... In November, Steve & Meredith and Darrel & Trish had a short ride to Harrington for lunch, and to resolve the annual question “What are we doing for Christmas”. So the plan was made. Commencing from Port Macquarie NSW, ride to Hampton just outside of Oberon, via Gloucester, Dungog, and Putty Road. Spend 2 nights there exploring the Blue Mountains and Jenolan Caves. Move on to Tumut for one night, then Jindabyne for 4 nights including Christmas Day. Trish and Darrel would then travel home via Goulburn, to visit family, Steve and Meredith would continue through Victoria, staying in Beechworth for 3 nights, Alexandra 1 night, Ballarat for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, and then to Mount Gambier SA via the Grampians, to visit family and friends.
technically we could claim we had not visited the Greater Sydney area as the definition of the verb visit is “go see and spend time with (someone) socially” - OK, plan needs to be adjusted. After all a wise man once told me plans are only guidelines. Because we could not explore the Blue Mountains, and the Hampton Halfway Hotel accommodation was appalling, we decided to spend only one night, and add another night to Tumut. A great ride to Tumut via Taralga, Crookwell, Boorowa, and Jugiong. We stopped in Jugiong to explore, and came across this statue in memory of Sergeant Edward Parry, killed in the courageous execution of his duty on the 16th on November 1864, in a gun battle with the Hall Gang Bushrangers at Black Springs, Jugiong.
The trip home would be planned later. So bookings were made, routes plotted on basecamp, bikes serviced. What could possibly go wrong, the planning was exemplary. We departed on the 20th December. Just prior to departing on the 20th December, there had been a COVID outbreak in the Northern Beaches. Not a problem, we will be nowhere near. OK, plan is still intact. A little bit of rain as we rode to Gloucester. Second breakfast stop at Roadies Café and onto Grey Gums Café on the Putty Road for a shared lunch with the flies, who had no concept of social distancing. A quick scan of the mobile devices revealed that Greater Sydney including the Blue Mountains has now been declared a hotspot. OK let’s not panic. Our plan was to refuel at Mount Victoria in the Blue Mountains. We have enough to get to Oberon, so
From Tumut we did a day ride to Tumbarumba, and back to Tumut via Rosewood. The countryside was recovering from the devastating bushfires, and you could see that the fire had been very intense,
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it must have been frightening. Back in Tumut Steve and Meredith had to make plans to get into Victoria after Christmas, so had to apply for a permit, as anyone who had visited the Northern Beaches, or the Greater Sydney Area would be refused entry. Hmm, by our definition we had technically not visited, (our feet had not touched the ground), so with a clear conscience I ticked the box “have not visited�. We got our permit to enter Victoria.
During our stay in Jindabyne we had two day rides, the first to Lake Eucumbene, the major storage dam for the Snowy Scheme and the second one to Khancoban.
We left Tumut and had a great ride through the Kosciusko National park to Jindabyne where we would spend Christmas at the Banjo Paterson Inn, a place we have stayed several times on the Snowy Ride. The national park was beautiful with the wild flowers in bloom. On Christmas Day we had a picnic lunch at Charlotte Pass, where we spotted the Australian Alpine Bear sitting on a gum tree. These creatures are as rare as Bears in Alaska. Christmas Dinner was a gourmet BBQ in the park.
The Banjo Paterson Inn normally provides a cooked breakfast as part of the deal, but due to COVID this is no longer the case, and a boxed breakfast is supplied in the room. We had been informed of this prior to our arrival. The dining area is open for
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lunch and dinner, but not breakfast. Is this COST CUTTING?
WHEN HUMANS PLAN, view overlooking a valley. Unfortunately meal options were limited to a pretty ordinary pub and
Trish and Darrel left for Goulbourn on the 27th and we continued into Victoria, passing over the border just before Corryong where our passes were checked by the young policewoman, who found everything to be in order. It pays to be truthful. Our first stop was Beechworth, and our accommodation was very comfortable with a great
a very expensive pub. All other places were shut over the Christmas/New year break. On our first day we did the iconic Great Alpine Road Loop through Mt Hotham, Omeo, Mount Bogong, and Mount Beauty, arriving back at the motel about 4:00pm to find the room not serviced. Due to COVID we do not service the room on multiple night stays. Were you not told this on check in?
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No, that is why we dropped our towels on the bathroom floor as instructed. COST CUTTING again? Just for you Duncan, there are Bears in Beechworth. Our second day ride from Beechworth was a short loop through Stanley, Myrtleford, Kancoona, Dederang, and Yackandandah. Whilst in Beechworth we applied for our pass to enter South Australia. We had not been in any hotspots, no problem.
After Beechworth we left for Alexandra via Jamieson and around Lake Eildon. We had been wanting to do the Jamieson Eildon road for some time, as the last time we did it many years ago, it was still dirt and Steve got a puncture on his R1200RT. This road is part of the Great Tarmac Rally now and is quite challenging with many 30km/hr bends, gravel and debris on the road. Meredith had the pleasure of leading a group of Lotus sports cars that were parked at the pub, through this great road. (“That blue one is the best” – Meredith)
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WHEN HUMANS PLAN,
We stayed at the Historical Alexandra Hotel, and again had very limited options for meals. We had an expensive but fantastic meal at our hotel as the only other hotel serving meals was fully booked. Our next stop was Ballarat, for New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. Our planned route took us through Flowerdale and Broadford. Just before Broadford is Murchison Gap with stunning views of the area known as the Valley of a 1000 Hills.
MIDNIGHT tonight. OK DON’T PANIC! we will have to adjust the plan. Cancel the accommodation in Ballarat, get on the bikes and head to Mount Gambier. It only adds 360kms to the day and it is only 2:00pm. Plan revised. Safely over the border, we stayed in Mount Gambier for a week with friends, and caught up with family and of course we had to do the iconic walk around the world famous Blue Lake.
It was a relative short ride so we took our time, and diverted to Trentham for lunch, a quaint little town 60kms out of Ballarat. It has a very old bakery, but it was closed over the holiday period. It is also the town of all creatures great and small. A quick look at the mobile device revealed that South Australia will be closing its borders to NSW residents, due to the Sydney COVID outbreak, at
We began planning our return trip. This is where it became a bit interesting. Victoria is open to SA, but is not to NSW. We are NSW residents so we need another permit. On the Victorian website you can only get a permit if you are transiting through NSW to Victoria from another state. Hmm, does this mean we have to go home via BROKEN HILL? We waited a couple of days, and then another option appeared, which allowed us to get a permit to transit from SA through Victoria to NSW. So our plan was Mount Gambier to Moama NSW, Moama to Orange, Orange to Tamworth, and Tamworth to Port Macquarie. Book the accommodation, plan in place.
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Two days later a COVID case travelled from the Northern Beaches to Broken Hill via Orange. OK change the plan, cancel Orange and stay overnight in Parkes instead. And that is how we got home after our trip of 5,100kms.
MORAL of the STORY Make plans, but be flexible. The greatest risk we had was being stuck in hotel quarantine, if we had not had correct passes or inadvertently stayed in a hotspot. We also found it important to book ahead, both accommodation and evening meals. It was further complicated by travelling during the Christmas New Year break where many cafes/restaurants chose to remain closed despite the fact that all the towns were packed with visitors. If you are planning to travel interstate you need to check each state’s conditions of entry frequently, and the latest news for potential outbreaks, as they can change at very short notice.
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A GLANCE BACK
FEBRUARY 2021
Provided by Gary Bennett from our archives is the following table detailing a snapshot of “R” bikes in the Club in 2005.
R90S Sidecar outfit
MORE FROM THE PEN OF JANE GRAY
FEBRUARY 2021
WHATEVER YOU DO JEGJan2021
What did 2020 ever do for you? Did you learn anything that you never knew? Did you master the art of meetings on Zoom? Did you reach for the stars and bring back the moon? Did you put your hand out to reach those in need? Did you grow anything from a tiny seed? Did you see the sun rise in the morning sky? Did you ever sense “something” and wonder why? Now what will the New Year have in store? Will you keep on wanting more and more? Will you spread your wings and learn to fly? Will you pick yourself up and continue to try? Will you face every day with a beaming smile? Will you take a step back and rest for a while? Will you give thanks wherever it’s due? Be true to yourself, whatever you do!
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By Duncan Bennett, Member #4171
Y
40+1 YEARS OF THE GS
es, I ride a 2019 Triumph Tiger 800XCa. Known as Aquaman to his friends due to his colour - Marine.
But where did Aquaman come from? The Triumph Tiger is an ancient model, starting with the T100 in 1939 and made famous by Ted Simon during his first circumnavigation on his 500cc Tiger 100 in 1973. To the modern observer, it looks just like a Triumph Bonneville, no 200mm of fork travel there. Ted did a second circumnavigation in 2001, but this time he was on a modified R80GS. The R80GS was already 21 years old by then after its European release in 1980. So what does the R80GS look like? Well, you see it pretty much every day out on the road whenever an adventure motorcycle swings past. Every major brand besides BMW makes GS look-alikes these days - Triumph, KTM, Honda, Kawasaki, Suzuki and Ducati - just for starters. After the Ewan McGregor and Charlie Boorman Long Way Round in 2004 on R1150GS’s, if you weren’t getting a piece of that touring and adventure motorcycling action then you were going nowhere. Spare a thought for poor old KTM who were selected to provide the bikes, but pulled out due to fear of what happens if they don’t make it. 17 years later I’d suggest raising that topic at a KTM product meeting would still meet stony silence. Too soon? The GS created a market that has become a big one to satisfy the demands of “farm roads and beyond”. It is no coincidence that most adventure motorcycles still look like the R80GS and its multitude of descendants, BMW set the standard and everyone else has just had to follow along. Looking at this photo of a Bumblebee 2008 F800GS, and looking back up at Aquaman, yes the colour is different and the chain is on the other side, but the Triumph design intention was certainly unmistakable - make it look like a GS. And it still looks good 41 years later.
FOR THE AIRHEADS
FEBRUARY 2021
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Below is a link for the Wedgetail Ignition Systems Australia FB site. https://www.facebook.com/wedgetailaustralia
And Mark explaining it all: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tka9qEuDmkA
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FEBRUARY 2021
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FEBRUARY 2021
Very Useful Services & Cool Stuff
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FEBRUARY 2021
Fun(d) raising rides Cindy Bennett, Member #4170 Putting together the page in this Journal detailing the Distinguished Gentleman’s Ride coming up in May, I couldn’t help but admire the staggering amount of money raised over the past 8 years towards men’s health initiatives – USD $24.5 million! The notion of riding for a cause is a noble one and a lot of us would have partaken in one over the years. I remember the Gold Coast Black Dog Ride a few years back with riders in the hundreds and police at traffic lights waving us through. To know you are riding and raising much needed funds as well as awareness gives a warm and fuzzy feeling to be sure! Charities feel the competition for the public donation dollar, and those that align to rides are to be commended for appealing to us as a generous bunch who don’t need too much of an excuse to get out there on 2 wheels for a cause. Some notable mentions that I am aware of are the following: Bra’s and Bikes Ride – the 19th and last ride of this group was in 2020 and raised funds for Broomhill Cancer Care. Riders were encouraged to don bright pink attire (including bras over their
THE LAST WORD
bike jackets!) while doing an easy day ride around the Sunshine Coast hinterland. A cause close to my heart (as a volunteer and foster fur-parent) is the RSPCA, and in years past there used to be a “Ruff Ride” to raise much needed funds for our furry and feathered friends, which was led by motor racing legend Craig Lowndes. This seems to have dropped off the radar and it would certainly be good to see a return of this ride (leave it with me..) The Great Australian ride from the most easterly to most westerly point of the continent is certainly one of the more hard core charity rides, established by Stuart Ball in 2011 to aid the Royal Children’s Hospital Foundation and since it’s inception has raised over $450,000 and the charity base has now expanded to include other worthwhile organisations such as RFDS and Fred Hollows Foundation. And let’s not forget that our own Club’s donations each year to the RFDS are a way to pay it forward to this essential service for any of us that get off the beaten track on the bikes. We donated $1300 last year as a Club. So I am of the firm opinion that riding for a good cause adds a little something to the ride and is a definite win-win! “No one has ever become poor by giving”. From the Diary of Anne Frank.
OLDEN DAYS
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Vintage ads from the ‘net
BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE NEW BOOKS AVAILABLE!
Race to Dakar Charley Boorman Extreme Frontiers Charley Boorman (Racing Across Canada) What If I Had Never Tried It Valentino Rossi (The Autobiography) The Road to Mali Craig Carey-Clinch No Room for Watermelons Ron & Lynne Fellowes Great Motorcycle Tours of Europe Colette Coleman A Motorcycle Courier in the Great War Captain W.H.L. Watson Australia Motorcycle Atlas Hema Maps With 200 Top Rides (6th Ed) Overland Magazines - issue #’s 11; 19; 21; 22; 25; 26; 27; 28 and 29. Adventure Bike Rider - issue #’s 44; 46; 51 and 53 The Touring Motorcycle Jeff Ware & Kris Hodgson
BMW Twins Mick Walker BMW Boxer Twins Ian Falloon BMW Motorcycles Bruce Preston A Century of BMW Manfred Grunet & Florian Triebel 2 x On Tour with Compass Expeditions DVDs
The initiative is being overseen by Jane Gray and you can communicate with Jane via email at: library@bmwmcq.org.au Arrangement can be made with the librarian to pick up & drop off at the monthly Members meeting.....Editor
