JULY 2021
www.bmwmcq.org.au
OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE BMW MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC. Established 1958
Winner of this month’s Photo Competition - Paul Hughes and his striking LANDMARK picture at the Nation’s Capital
OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE BMW MOTORCYCLE CLUB OF QUEENSLAND INC.
The Committee
This Issue - JULY 2021
President- Tony Gray
Contents:-
Ph: 0409 493 605 president@bmwmcq.org.au R1200GS (The Grey Ghost) R60/6
Editorial . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 PRESIDENT’s report. . . . . . . . . . 5 BMWMCQ EVENTS CALENDAR . . . . 6 committee reports . . . . . . . . . 8 REGALIA CATALOGUE . . . . . . . . . . 14 CHRISTMAS IN JULY. . . . . . . . . . . . 17 FRIGID DIGIT . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18 from the pen of jane gray . . . . 19 PHOTO COMPETITION . . . . . . . . . . 20 BISCUIT RIDE. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 THE LITTLE BIKE THAT CAN . . . . . . 26 LIFEBLOOD. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28
Vice President - Paul Hughes Ph: 0409 814 633 vpres@bmwmcq.org.au
R1200GS; F700 GS BMW Clubs Australia Delegate
Secretary- Steven Johnson Ph: 0402 435 089 secretary@bmwmcq.org.au R1200GS
Treasurer - Darryl Gowlett Ph: 0438 083 996 treasurer@bmwmcq.org.au R80GS; K100RS4V; K1300R
Advertisers
TeamMoto - INSIDE COVER Caloundra Motorcycles - P.52 Northside Motorcycles - P.53 Munich Motorcycles - P.54 Good Wool Store - P.54
Events - Mark Mustchin Ph: 0416 061 638 events@bmwmcq.org.au R1200GS
Editors - Cindy & Duncan Bennett Ph: 0401 610 671 editor@bmwmcq.org.au Triumph Tigers Records- Greg Gaffney Ph: 0411424 219 records@bmwmcq.org.au R1200RT
Tools/Spares - Bill Luyten Ph: 0438 123 747 tools@bmwmcq.org.au R1150 Rockster; R1200GS LC
TIPS OF THE MONTH . . . . . . . . . . . 33 MAINTENANCE CORNER . . . . . . . . . 33 RATS RIDE TO NABIAC . . . . . . . . . . 36 TRIPPIN. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40 CHRISTMAS PARTY. . . . . . . . . . . . 44 RFDS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 A GLANCE BACK. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46 LUNCH RIDE PICS. . . . . . . . . . . . . 47 JUNE CLUB RIDE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48 CLUB TRAINING SUBSIDY . . . . . . . . 50 FOR THE AIRHEADS . . . . . . . . . . . 51 THE LAST WORD . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56 BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE. . . . . . 57 TeamMoto - P.55 TeamMoto M&W- BACK COVER
On The Cover
The Landmarks winner is Paul Hughes, his caption being “just before the Uzi guns turned up to move me on”. Congratulations to Paul, who wins $200 to spend at a sponsor of his choice.
Regalia - Rosi Johnson Ph: 0424 961 597 regalia@bmwmcq.org.au R1200R
Dealer Liaison - Don Grimes Ph: 0411 601 372 R1200GS; K1300R
Club Details
BMW Motorcycle Club of Queensland Inc. ABN 30 351 243 651
Address all correspondence to: The Secretary PO Box 3669 South Brisbane QLD 4101 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.
2. Improving the service and availability of spare parts for BMWs in Queensland using the advantage of a united effort. 3. Decreasing maintenance and running costs by mutual assistance on mechanical problems. 4. Organising day trips, tours and outings. 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
JULY 2021
Cindy & Duncan Bennett
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Editors’ Report
ell, I/we am/are regretting putting my/our hand/hands up to be Judge/Judges in the Photo Competition. Such a great array of entries, and making a decision is hard work indeed (guess that is why we are paid a 6 figure editor’s salary - $0.00001) It just gets harder each month, and most entries are definitely a worthy winner, so the criteria we undertake is to save all photos into a folder and then take time to view each one on our super-size Editor screen for artistic merit, how the photo captures the theme of the month, and how it leaps out from the screen.
You can probably guess from the winners thus far that a BMW steed front and off-centre doesn’t hurt the chances. Other considerations are the colours, having a red bike or contrasting luggage certainly captures the eye. And the “iconic-ness” of the backdrop is always the thick liver-flavoured icing on the souffle.
Cindy & Duncan So how did we view this photo taken in Romania and submitted by Eastern European Member #007 (licensed to cheat) Ydnic Ttenneb for the competition? • Big Landmark - tick • Artistic Merit - tick • BMW Steed - squinting at it doesn’t discount that it might be an F800GS - tick • Unknown rider wearing a BMW GS Dry suit - tick Definitely would make the shortlist, and because it is in portrait format would have won, but the lawn isn’t in good condition. Bad luck Ydnic.
Submissions for the Next Journal close 25th-ish July 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 1 July 2021, Zoom there or be
Committee Reports Tony Gray
JULY 2021
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President’s Report
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ell another month has rolled around and with it a host of well attended Club activities have been consigned to the history books. The service day at the start of June saw another bumper attendance at what is quickly becoming the social event on the calendar. It appears that I am not the only one who likes to spend time with like-minded people in a workshop environment talking all things bikes. The fillet steak and sangers put on by host Rob Wynne and cooked to perfection by ex Pres Paul Hughes went off like a frog in a sock, adding to the enjoyment of the day. We are extremely lucky having people like Rob in our club. There is a follow-up article in this journal putting into print what was discussed and practised at the service day in relation to roadside tyre repairs (Ed - thanks for the reminder Tony, nearly forgot). There is a wealth of knowledge and experience in the club that can be openly and generously shared with those wanting to learn – we just need to provide the means for that learning to occur. If you have an idea for a service day, event or ride or just have a question that you want answered, then please open up to one of the committee and we will see what we can arrange. On the history front I have spent some time with club life member Gary Bennett sorting through boxes of club records. Subsequent discussions I have had at Committee level and with several of our senior club members have unanimously concluded that there is no benefit to be had in retaining these deteriorating paper records. Old financial records and committee meeting records have already been destroyed. The club newsletters and journals have all been digitally copied by Gary and are available for all to read on the club website. The paper newsletters will also be destroyed BUT if there is someone in the club who for nostalgic (or other) reason would like these paper copies then they will go to the first caller. There are several large plastic storage boxes of material. I am putting a deadline of the end of July and if I have had no call by then, the material will be destroyed. If you follow the club Facebook pages as well as the For Sale page you would have noted that there has been quite a lot of bike movement with members buying or selling bikes. The first part of this equation I can understand but I have real difficulty with the selling part. Each of my bikes has a part to play in the workshop family and parting company with a family member wouldn’t sit well so best they all stay put. If you fall into this category however, how about putting pen to paper and letting our esteemed editors know of your experience with the bike and reason for selling/upgrading. I am sure most club members would appreciate a ‘warts & all’ appraisal of a particular bike model from someone they know. By the time you are reading this, the photo of the month has been decided and a great ‘Landmark’ image is gracing the front cover of the journal. This initiative has been devised to stimulate our members to dig back into their archive of bike riding memories and share with the wider membership. If you are yet to get involved, then grab the opportunity while it exists – fame and fortune (well $200) awaits! Stay safe and enjoy the ride.
****STOP PRESS**** There is an old saying credited to WC Fields that goes – Never work with Children or Animals – they are scene stealing and completely unpredictable. If old WC was still alive I am sure he would add Covid to that list. The nation has been thrown into disarray, toilet rolls are disappearing off the shelves and Dan Murphy’s stock isn’t far behind. Our club events have been immediately disrupted so we have diverted to a Zoom General Meeting this Thursday. The Christmas in July is still ‘ON’ but we are watching very carefully and talking with our hosts at Kingaroy. Spare a thought for these small business owners – they are looking forward to a full motel and full restaurant requiring purchase of perishable food supplies and scheduling additional staff and that could all go up in a puff of Covid smoke. Keep a watch on the club FB site and your inbox for updates.
BMWMCQ 2021 Events Calendar BMWMCQ Club Events for JULY 2021
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Datee Thurs 1 July
JULY 2021
Start 7:30pm
Sat 3 July 6:00pm Sat 10 July Wed 14 July Sat 24 to Sun 25 July Tues 27 July
9:00am 9:00am
Event Club Monthly Meeting
Details VIA ZOOM FOR THIS MONTH DUE TO COVID LOCKDOWN Link to be emailed
Contact President Tony
Christmas in July
“Midnight at the Oasis”, Oasis Motel Kingaroy
Editor Cindy
Mid Week Ride
Destination Maroon Dam - Meet Ride Leader - VP Paul H at Caltex Springfield Lakes
Coffee Meet Up
*See separate ad in Journal* Preece’s on the Park, Shorncliffe Events Coordinator Mark
08:00am Frigid Digit #22 Meet at Grey Gum Picnic Area, Gary Bennett Mt Coot-tha to depart at 0830 to a mysterious and cold location! 6:30pm
German Club Dinner
Brisbane German Club Vulture Street, East Brisbane
Events Coordinator
EXTRAORDINARY EVENTS CALENDAR Date Sat 3 July
Event Sunny Coast Riders Coffee Morning
Location Coffee Club Rumba Resort, Caloundra
Contact Richard de Groot
Surely it’s time for “Our Rally” again...?!? Come on 2022, stop procrastinating and get here! Now!
JULY 2021 BMWMCQ 2021 Events Calendar BMWMCQ Club Events for AUGUST 2021
Datee Thurs 5 August
Start 7:30pm
Sun 8 August
10:30am Famous Biscuit Girraween National Park Day Use area Ride #12
Peter Todd - Organiser
9:00 am
Events Coordinator Mark Ride Leader Ron Durkin Gary Bennett
Sat 14 August Thur 19 August Sat/Sun 21/22 August Sun 29 August Tues 31 August
Event Club Monthly Meeting
Details Geebung RSL Club, 323 Newman Road, Geebung QLD. Meals from 6pm
Contact President Tony
9:00am
Coffee Meet Up
Bean and Leaf Cafe, 115 Bloomfield St, Cleveland
Events Coordinator Mark
9:00 am
ASBK - day trip Australian Superbike Championship or camping
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Mid Week Ride
12:30pm Club Lunch Ride 6:00pm German Club Dinner
Meet at Dayboro Bakery - ride to McCoys Cafe, Cooyar Morgan Park Pomona Hotel, 1 Station St Pomona
Brisbane German Club Vulture Street, East Brisbane
Events Coordinator Mark Events Coordinator Mark
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JULY 2021
Paul Hughes
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Committee Reports Vice President’s Report
nother busy month in June, with quite a lot of rides both club and privately. The mid week club ride was fantastic with a larger group than expected having lunch in a idyllic setting in a state National Park. The next one on 14 July promises to be a similar great experience winding up in Maroon Dam for another self catered picnic. Don’t miss it.
Yesterday several members and I attended the BMW GS Experience near Maleny. The weather was kind and there was a large selection of BMW GS bikes available from 310 all the way through to the 1250 GSA. A great day was had by all. I would recommend this annual event to anyone who is interested in the BMW line up. I am really looking forward to next weeks Christmas in July at Kingaroy. I think there is a few places left if you hurry and of course followed up with our annual mystery weekend , the Frigid Digit. Hope to see you all at one of our extensive events listings. Stay safe. Cheers Paul
President: This month’s trip down memory lane is from a Castrol 6 Hour race in 1976 when we were leaving Amaroo Park outside Sydney for the ride home to Brisbane. My Honda 750/4 is on the LHS of the picture with helmet on top of the swag next to my brother’s RD350 Yamaha. Another mate’s Kwaka 900 is next in line with mate Adrian’s R750/5 BMW. Now I will leave it to your imagination but Adrian’s BMW was notoriously slow to start when cold. With the passage of some 45 years and the death of many brain cells (self-inflicted) over that time I cannot remember what was entailed in the starting technique on display here. I just know that Adrian is a long way from the kick-starter!
Committee Reports Darryl Gowlett
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JULY 2021
Treasurer’s Report
’day Everyone,
Work! Work! Work! That’s it for this month. Lots of memberships this month, and we gave a heap out to charities.
If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter. This could be why we view politicians the way we do. Ciao, Darryl
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JULY 2021
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Mark Mustchin
Committee Reports Events Report
ovid has reared is ugly head yet again which resulted in a venue change from Tumbulgum Tavern (NSW) to O’Shanley’s Irish Bar & Restaurant in Clifton. The Committee rightly decided to change the venue to avoid any complications with possible border closures.
Some club members took advantage of the “GS Experience” to test ride bikes in the GS range. I rode the 1250 GSA & the F850 GS, both excellent bikes but I particularly enjoyed riding the 850. The Calendar for the rest of the year is pretty much sorted with some great rides & events coming up. The gliding at Kingaroy was offered to those attending the Xmas In July but attracted no interest so it has been cancelled. If you are thinking of attending The Biscuit Ride in August with an overnight stop somewhere or the Back To The Bush ride in October & have not booked accommodation do it soon, you may find it difficult to find accommodation closer to the event dates. Happy and safe riding. Mark Mustchin
A happy group at the June mid-week ride which finished at The Gantry, Mt Mee for a picnic lunch.
Committee Reports
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JULY 2021
Steven Johnson
Secretary’s Report
i all, The hard yards away from home continues. I received a disturbing ransom demand note the other day, saying that if I don’t come back soon they will not release my kidnapped cat. The most disturbing thing is I don’t have a cat. Steven
BMWMCQ Meeting Agenda/Minutes 3 June 2021 Meeting Opened: Apologies: Minutes of Previous General Meeting: Number of Attendees: New Members (Name & MC): Visitors: Returning Members: Treasurer Report: Editor Report: Tools Report: Regalia Report: Records Report:
Events Report:
Month Ride: Sunday 6 June 2021 Leader: Duncan Bennett TEC: Paul Hughes Secretary Report: Dealer Liaison Report: Vice President Report: Clubs Australia Report:
President Report:
Other Events/Buy/Sell/Swap: General Business Closed:
Venue: Geebung RSL
7:31 pm Richard Maher, Ron Durkin, Steven Johnson, Maggie Rafanowicz, John Allan. Accepted: Gary Bennett Seconded: Geoff Hodge 33 Nil. Nil visitors. Nil Christmas party money starting to come in, five have booked. Accounts as per Journal. Send in photos for landmarks. June 5th Saturday service day. Steaks will be on. Discussion regarding changes to logo by Tony G. Rosi has done a lot of work with Daniel at Goldstar for the changeover, looking good now. Question without notice from the floor: Are there specific colours allowed for BMWMCQ regalia? Rosi J: No. 256 members, 9 new members last month. New payment method glitch, been fixed, but would like a renewing member to try it out. Saturday 12th Coffee at Anstead. Mid-week ride ending at The Gantry. Club lunch ride 27th Tumbulgum. German Club 29th. Christmas in July. David Janson will organise gliding. Frigid Digit still room for camping BBQ dinner. Start from Channel 9 and Channel 7 area on Mt Coot-tha, due to crowding up at the look-out. Girraween August Biscuit Run. B2B. Christmas Party building up. Ride to Gold Coast Motor Museum. Departing BP Staplyton (Yatala) 0930hrs. Heading down over Mt Tamborine (coffee) and around via Beechmont, then back up through Nathan. 2 x BMW Touring Club NSW magazines. Cane Toad Rally article. Appreciation letter received from RFDS. News from dealerships; S1000R new engine now available. Finance deal on a R1250GSA, 310R, S1000RR. Winter service deal June and July only. $200 to $400 you get $100 to spend on accessories, over $400 get $150. Getting servicing is still tight. Nil. Bailey says Condobolin still on, although Victorians not likely in. Certain BMW club outlets not changing logos. Motorcycle fatality, TMR focus groups active, trying to cover aspects of motorcycling to improve safety, such as training and mentoring. Will go back to government. Police frustrated with some motorcyclist’s attitudes. Lots happening in that space. Gary Bennett has found 50th publication “the Golden Ride”, we have 2 hard copies. No final soft copy found. All Journals in soft copy so old hard copies will be discarded.
Don’s K1300R. Later in June, GS Experience in Maleny, get to ride 2 bikes for an hour for $49. 8:20 pm, next meeting 1st July.
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JULY 2021
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Greg Gaffney
Committee Reports Records Officer Report
ust been informed the NSW border is closed again for various parts of Greater Sydney and the Central Coast. This unfortunately has put paid to our June lunch ride to Tumbulgum Tavern which is a great ride so a great shame.
records@ bmwmcq.org.au
Best however in case there are further restrictions and also following the advice of State Health Officer. I’ll look forward to us heading to Clifton instead and enjoying this beautiful weather.
Welcome to New Members:
Stuart White, DEAGON, S1000R Yves Du Bois, BARDON, R1200GS Stephen Sticklen, REDBANK PLAINS, R1250RS
Our Records Guru, Greg rugged up and ready to tackle the June Lunch Ride to Clifton!
Committee Reports Bill Luyten
Service Day The Club Service Day was held at Rob Wynne’s place at Jimboomba on the 5th June. About 32 members met up at Rob’s to enjoy a bit of discussion on their bikes, a bit of maintenance and a particularly good demonstration of various tyre puncture repair by Tony Gray. Thanks Tony. Thanks again to Rob for providing the great shed and a beaut place to meet. Steak and a few sausage sandwiches (thanks to Rob providing the delicious steak) and drinks were sold for lunch ($87 was raised and will go to the RFDS). The GS-911 has recently had a firmware update to give a bit more functionality. To see what’s covered on your bike, check out this website link https://www.hexcode.co.za/ products/gs-911/function-chart
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JULY 2021
Tool’s Report 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) • 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
Repair Manuals I have various Repair Manuals available to borrow mainly for older bikes
Tools for loan There are special tools available including the GS-911WiFi and 3 pin diagnostic tools.
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 email: spares@bmwmcq.org.au
Rosi Johnson
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Regalia Report
i all,
New Logo is finally up and running. Last month winner of the shirt was Ross Layther. Happy riding everyone now that the weather is nice and cool. Cheers, Rosi regalia@bmwmcq.org.au
Steve enjoying not having to share his morning tea on the June Lunch ride!
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2021 REGALIA
JULY 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
7LPI - $29.50 100% polyester “My BMW shirt brings all the Harley Riders to the yard” - Kelis side B
7PIP - $29.50 100% polyester “I’m too sexy for this shirt” - Right Said Fred
ICE Tee - $24.50 Cotton “Wicks away the sweat by the bucket load” - Angela Merkel
ICE Tee - $24.50 Cotton “I was wearing this when I said veni, vidi, vici” - Julius Caesar
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N WI AH695 - $17 Bucket Hat Sandwich Design (with trim)
AH715 - $16 Bucket Hat. Not all that gender neutral.
Metro - black/charcoal or black/royal $20.50
AH230 - $15 Cotton Cap, not as warm as a beanie.
Swiss charcoal- $35.50
!
!! ER
AH742 - $17 100% Wool Beanie
AL E WI SS C NT OL ER D !!!
AH770 - $17 100% Cotton Beanie
OR F E ! M SO ER!! E T AW WIN
Ladies Vests $48.00
Non-Ladies Vests $48.00
2021 REGALIA
JULY 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/Vests order: Shirt product code number
Quantity
Size
Colour
Bags order: Bag product name
Quantity
Colour
Metro Swiss Headwear order: 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, 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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JULY 2021
Committee Reports - Service Day Photos
CHRISTMAS IN JULY
JULY 2021
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It’s on again, back by popular demand! Saturday 3rd July 5:00pm $30.00 per person Midnight at the Oasis, Oasis Motel 50 Walter Street Kingaroy To book a room call (07) 4162 2399
Menu Nibbles by the pool @ 5pm Buffet dinner Turkey and cranberry sauce Roast Beef and red wine jus Australian Prawns Pork Belly and Apple Sauce Selection of Vegetables and Salads Dessert Buffet Selection of 6 mini desserts Tea and Coffee
Buffet Breakfast at Oasis for only $18 pp Selection of Cereals and hot buffet (eggs, bacon, sausages etc) Tea, coffee, fruit juice and water
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JULY 2021
FRIGID DIGIT 2021
**Meeting point is “Grey Gum Picnic Area”, Mount Coot-tha (situated between Ch 7 and Ch 9 Studios) Meet 8am for 8:30 departure**
FROM THE PEN OF JANE GRAY
JULY 2021
LANDMARK JEGJune2021
A landmark, now what could that mean? Something obvious, so easily seen Something to remind you of where you’ve been Something to calculate the distance between Or something of beauty, a magical scene Each landmark is different & unique It could be the sight of a snow-capped peak Or a waterhole in a desert so bleak It could be a message, some often oblique Or an ancient ruin, be it Roman or Greek Man’s many creations throughout Time Structures & towers we all love to climb Or beautiful buildings just sublime Art installations with “no reason or rhyme” Some so abstract it’s almost a crime Whatever it is and what it implies Landmarks can come in any size Some are to honour another’s demise Be it on this Earth or in the skies They’re something special in each one’s eyes
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PHOTO COMPETITION The photo competition runs from April 2021 for 12 months, send your pics in to us by 25th July for the fifth round!
This follows on from the highly successful competition that was run last year during peak COVID. OK, rules are: • There is a theme each month for the competition - theme for the fifth round is “Rally the Troops” - show us your best rally pics! • The following month’s theme will be published in the Journal at the start of the month and publicised on Facebook. • The monthly prize will be $200 to spend at one of our sponsors! In addition you will have the honour of your photo being the Journal cover shot*. • Each member (or dual membership) is only eligible for one prize over the 12 months of the competition. • Photos submitted do not have to be current photos however they must be the property of the member and are entered on the clear understanding that the photos may be used by the Club for promotional purposes. • To enter: email the Editor at editor@bmwmcq.org.au with your name, the photo, and photo details by the 25th of each month to have your photo included in that month’s competition - no correspondence will be entered into. • Entries will be judged by the Editors of this Journal who will of course be ineligible to enter (and will resist all but the most tempting bribes...) So there it is, a great incentive to get out there and start snapping or go through your photo archives. *We do struggle with landscape oriented photographs, but we’ll use our best efforts.
PHOTO COMPETITION
JULY 2021
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The Winner of the fourth month “LANDMARKS” Photo Competition is Paul Hughes, featured on the front cover. Great photo Paul, thank you! Here are the rest of the excellent entries for your viewing pleasure!
Rob Wynne, Member #585 “After completing the Canning Stock Route we stopped in at the Wolfe Creek Meteorite Crater, WA” - looks spooky (Ed) Richard de Groot, Member #769 “Photograph taken of Wendy and our 2002 BMW R1150 RT at the Mundi Mundi Lookout with a view of the famous Mundi Mudi Plains. The Mundi Mundi lookout is 5 k/m north west of Silverton, NSW. It is said that viewers can see to the end of the earth. Photograph taken by me in March 2003 on a motorcycle trip through NSW, SA and Vic.”
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JULY 2021
PHOTO COMPETITION
Tony Gray, Member #3905 1. “Year 2015 with Jane trying out the riders view on ‘Sam’ our rented hexhead R1200GS. The backdrop is the Grand Canyon, Arizona. Sam was named after Uncle Sam celebrating his patriotic colour scheme and that we were in the USA.”
2. “ Year was 2010 and this location was Jane and my first night on Continental Europe after leaving Great Britain. The town is Dinant, Belgium on the River Meuse. The town is famous as the birthplace of Adolphe Sax who invented the saxophone. An annual festival celebrating the saxophone is celebrated. Atop the hill is the fortified Citadel and below the hill is the Cathedral of Notre Dame (Our Lady).
Michael Ahlberg, Member #4331 “Where the classic first Marathon took place.”
PHOTO COMPETITION
JULY 2021
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Tony Gray, Member #3905 3. “Year 2018 and what did we find in Glasgow at the Riverside Museum of Transport? None other than Ewan McGregor’s two BMW’s from the Famous Long Way Round (R1150GSA) and Long Way Down (R1200GSA) documented trips. Ewan was born ‘just up the road’ in Perth so where better to park his prized BMWs. The Museum itself, on the banks of the River Clyde, houses a wonderful collection which reflects the important part Glasgow has played in the world through its contributions to heavy industries like shipbuilding, train manufacturing and engineering.”
Michael Ahlberg, Member #4331 “Australian Standing Stones” at Glen Innes October 2019.”
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JULY 2021
PHOTO COMPETITION
Darryl Gowlett, Member #53 “There it is!” - absolutely amazing pic and a very close second to the winner (Ed)
Jane Gray, Member #4300 “ Tony in 2012 on Snaefell Mountain at the Joey Dunlop memorial during IOM TT on our 2nd tour of Uk/Europe.”
Michael Ahlberg, Member #4331 “ Auschwitz.” - I imagine a very emotional place to visit (Ed)
THE 12th FAMOUS BISCUIT RIDE
JULY 2021
MAGGIE’S 12TH ANNUAL BISCUIT RIDE
WHERE: GIRRAWEEN NATIONAL PARK DAY VISITORS AREA ( 38 KMS NORTH OF TENTERFIELD) AT 10.30 AM ON SUNDAY AUGUST 8 2021. THE EVENT IS BEING ORGANISED BY PETER TODD. YOU NEED TO BRING A CUP, HOT WATER AND A SPOON. MANY ATTENDING ARE STAYING IN TENTERFIELD OR STANTHORPE THE NIGHT BEFORE. SOME MAY CAMP ON SITE AT THE NATIONAL PARK. SOME PEOPLE WILL RIDE DOWN SUNDAY MORNING FROM BRISBANE PLEASE ENSURE YOU INDICATE ON FACEBOOK IF YOU ARE ATTENDING PUT TOGETHER YOR FRIENDS GROUP AND SEE YOU THERE.
MAGGIE STANDING JUST NEAR WHERE THE EVENT WILL BE HELD IN THE BEAUTIFUL NATIONAL PARK
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By Bob Coleman, Member #4406
The 2121 G310GS
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he ‘baby’ GS doesn’t feel like a small bike. At 188 cm and 100 kilos, for me it provides a comfortable upright riding position and the feel of having enough bike around me. The standard windscreen is tiny but well positioned and angled, providing clear air to the lower edge of my helmet visor. I’m not going to dwell on power comparisons. It’s a 310-cc bike. But once you get used to using its power you can make much larger bikes work hard for the pleasure of overtaking you. My biggest day on her has been 930 kms, from Goulburn to Ballina, on the way home from the Alpine Rally. Having left the rally site the afternoon before, my pre-dawn start from Goulburn in June was everything you’d expect it to be – miserable. And I was still feeling the effects of Stones Green Ginger ‘Wine’ gifted to me by someone I thought a friend when I ran out of red.
The LED running light on this bike looks really cool and is a great safety feature. Toggling to low beam I was pleasantly surprised by the width and length of throw of the headlight, as well as the whiteness of the light. High beam seemed to add another 50 metres to the throw. I felt confident I was able to scan the road surface sufficiently to be able to respond to any threat and maintain a reasonable speed. The standard Metzeler Tourance tyres feel quite hard to me, so I like them warm before I put
THE LITTLE BIKE THAT CAN any energy into cornering. As dawn arrived, I was in a comfortable groove at between 110 and 120 kilometres per hour and wasn’t feeling any need to reduce speed for the sweepers.
Revs at 100-105 kmph are a very comfortable 6,000, increasing to between 7,000 and say 7,250 when traveling along at 120 and occasionally overtaking slow cars and trucks. Redline is at 10,000 revs. Top speed is just shy of 140 km/h at around 8,000 revs. 130 is not hard to achieve for overtaking on the flat. The instrument panel is digital monochrome with the essentials easy to see in sunlight and welllit at night. Speed, fuel, revs, and gear position are prominent. You can also toggle between fuel range, odometer, trip meters and such. The exhaust note is a lovely single-cylinder flutter at lower speeds, becoming a busy hum above 100 kmph. Earplugs ensured it wasn’t unpleasant. Some have complained that this model is buzzy but I don’t feel it. I did put soft grips over the top of the originals because I found the diameter of them too small. Maybe that makes a difference.
THE LITTLE BIKE THAT CAN The 11-litre tank provides a range of around 275 kms or 4 litres per hundred kms. On a full tank the range shows as 330 kms but you soon notice the range countdown is quicker than the actual distance covered. Approaching Sydney, expecting to leave the Hume Highway and arrive on Pennant Hills Road where there are lots of servos, I let the tank run low and ran out of fuel toward the end of the new (to me) NorConnex tunnel. I pushed the bike the last 200 metres out of the tunnel and then a further 2 kilometres to a servo. Try that on your 1250! The bike has excellent luggage capacity. The luggage rack is identical to the rack on my 1250RS, although moulded in one piece for cost reduction. I can use my 1250 top case on the little GS. Not that I would, it would be an overcapitalisation and hard to explain to an insurance company. The BMW soft luggage kit for the 310, comprising tank and tail-bag is excellent and the tail-bag has a waterproof bladder insert. The LED tail-light and blinkers are sturdy, compact and bright. The rear shock, set to 9 out of 10, never bottoms out. The front forks feel superb, and steering doesn’t require a lot of input. In tighter corners the bike responds well to the rider shifting weight off the side of the seat. The single-disc front brake has good stopping power (and ABS), but I suggest newer riders leave themselves plenty of room to react at anything over 100 kmph. There’s a delay, even though it’s in microseconds, before the front suspension settles sufficiently for full application. The rear brake is just fine for lowspeed manoeuvring.
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The ‘baby’ GS is made in India for the Indian market. I understand it’s considered a luxury, high performance bike over there! An upside is the availability of a heap of cheap Chinese bling through outlets such as Ali Express. A smoke grey touring windscreen cost $40 and my sweet-looking model-customised engine oil plug and front brake reservoir cover were a stunning bargain at less than $20 in total. The bright red mudsling at $15 would have been absolutely fantastic I’m sure but it never arrived. I didn’t skimp on the important stuff. A better belly pan, lower engine protection bars, a radiator guard and pivot pegs were a necessity for off-road use in my opinion. Speaking of which, I also completed the MotoTrekkin Ridge Rider event on this bike, in fact that’s what I purchased it for. My bucket list had a ‘guided motorcycle adventure’ entry which would have been overseas if not for COVID. The bike handled the five days of dirt-riding between the Hunter Valley and the Gold Coast exceptionally well and was often commented upon favourably by other riders in terms of its appearance and capability. The ride was mostly well-groomed forest roads but did include a ’19 river crossings’ break-out route which put me way out of my confidence zone but was thankfully handled beautifully by the bike. In summary the 2021 G310GS is capable, comfortable, light and a whole lot of fun. BMW obviously supervises the assembly line well as the build quality is perfectly acceptable. Stunning value I think given the Australian RRP of $8,400.
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LIFEBLOOD
By Darryl Gowlett, Member #53 Well, it’s official. We finally have our own Club as a Lifeblood team. I have been donating since 1983 when a fellow Member asked me if I was afraid of needles. Hah! Not me. I was an invincible young motorcyclist that was chafing at the bit to get out there and face the world head on. However, I was a tad sceptical about being stabbed, as history reminded me that there was some discomfort in past interactions with the medical fraternity. So, off to the blood bank in Eagle Street we went. It didn’t hurt, at all, and we got free coffee, and a biscuit, and free parking in the city. Over all these years the Red Cross has actively asked donors to nominate a Club that they would like their donation recorded against, so different organisations can compete with one another in scoring brownie points for the most donations. I always tried to get our Club registered as we had many Members that I knew of that donated, but over the years we’ve always had to register as the BMW Club of Queensland. So those four wheeled fairies have been using our points to puff out their chests even more. So, a couple of years ago, I had a discussion with the local receptionist in Springwood where I donate, and she said she could change it. She did, and all my donations have been recorded for ACTBMWMC since, as that was the only BMW motorcycle club registered with the Red Cross. Cont, page 29
LIFEBLOOD
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But if you’re squeamish about having a piece of plumbing inserted into your vein you don’t have to look. You can watch tellly. But I heartily recommend everybody that can donate blood should, because you may not have, or may never need to, use the products gleaned from this system, but I’m sure many of those close to you have, and it can’t be manufactured. And when you bite the bullet, don’t forget to tell them you’re with the BMWMCQ.
Proudly supporting National Blood Donor Week 14–20 June
This week, make a change for life.
And to make life so much easier, they have an app, too. It’s called ‘Donate Blood’ and you can book through that, check out your donation history, including BP, iron count, weight and all kinds of groovy things, and find out all the information you need to become a happier member of the community. Roll up your sleeves,
Our Lifeblood Team is looking for new members. People like you, who want to make a difference; who want to give something back.
Darryl
Choosing to become a donor might be a small change in your life, but it’ll make a huge difference to countless others.
Give life. Give blood.
Can I give blood?
give blood
I finally took pen to paper, figuratively speaking because nobody uses such wasteful resources anymore, and sent an email requesting we be registered. Twenty-four hours later it was done.
In order to do the most good, we need to make every donation as safe as possible for the donor and the person receiving it.
For all you existing donors out there, next time you go to lose a pint, ask the receptionist to place your name on the register for BMWMCQ. Or you can also arrange it when you book an appointment. Even if, and especially if, you’re registered for the Police Service, or one of the armed services, or even the Alligator Creek Pony Club, change over to our Club so we can earn the brownie points.
You might have to wait if:
• You feel fit and healthy • You’re aged 18–75, if it’s your first time (you can be older than 75 if you’ve donated in Australia before) • You weigh at least 50kg • You’ve got your photo ID or donor card with you • On the day before your donation, you've had 8 glasses of fluid if you're a woman and 10 glasses if you're a man, as well as plenty to eat.
• • • • • • • • •
We’re sorry, we can’t take your blood if: • You’ve visited or lived in the UK for a cumulative 6 months or more between 1980 and 1996 • You’ve ever had a serious blood disorder or disease.
• • • • • •
You’ve recently travelled You’re waiting for medical results You’ve got a cold or you’re feeling unwell You have certain medical conditions You’ve changed medications You recently had surgery You recently had dental treatment You recently had a piercing You have a headache, or you’re feeling unwell in any way You have any cuts, abrasions or cold sores You’ve ever had a serious heart condition You were recently pregnant or gave birth You've recently engaged in male-to-male sexual activity You've engaged in other specified 'at risk' sexual activity You’ve injected, or been injected with, drugs not prescribed by a doctor or dentist in the past 5 years.
Your help is vital in making giving and receiving blood safer for everyone. Thank you.
Jan 2021 – 14375289
And the itinerants amongst us who think they’re scared of needles, be comforted that it is not a normal needle. The pain bit of a needle is the substance, usually at a different temperature, that they place within you that causes the discomfort. No, no, no. This is no ordinary needle, so it doesn’t hurt.
You should be all good to give if:
Questions about your eligibility to give blood? Give us a call on 13 14 95. Otherwise, you’ll find more information and advice at donateblood.com.au
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MORE PHOTO COMP ENTRIES Michael Ahlberg, Member #4331 “Stelvio Pass”
Jodie Maher, Member #4533
Jane Gray, Member #4300 “ Tony with Motorcycle Gendarmes (in Training) at Chateau du Chambord in Loire Valley, France during our 2018 UK/Europe Trip.” Ed - we did think Tony was “helping with enquiries” but apparently they were looking for a croissant but there was no evidence remaining!
AND MORE PHOTO ENTRIES
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Jane Gray, Member #4300“ Tony in 2016 at the HMAS Sydney Memorial in Geraldton WA during our Around Australia Trip.” Spectacular (Ed)
Steve Herpich, Member #4294 “On our half way round Australia trip 2014 Red Centre National Park, NT”
Klaus Zillner, Member #4515 “ Somewhere on the Oonadatta Track, SA”
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YET MORE PHOTO COMP ENTRIES
Steve Herpich, Member #4294 “ Two very important Landmarks!” John Eacott, Member #4385 “Anyone who knows Cornwall will know this landmark: pronounced Mouzzle”
Klaus Zillner, Member #4515 “ Pink Hotel Oonadatta, SA” Paul Hughes, Member #3126 “ A Landmark or a Landmark Case?”
TIPS ‘O THE MONTH
JULY 2021
Tip No.1 (Ed - this is awesome): A quick and very effective fix for a radiator leak (leak, not a blooming great hole or broken feed pipe!) is plain and simple pepper. About 4-5 sachets from Maccas or any fast food outlet will usually be enough for a quick temporary repair, just open the radiator cap, pour in the pepper, top up the water, replace the cap and off you go. The pepper will coagulate at the leak and block it remarkably quickly. From John Eacott Tip No.1A: Don’t use peppercorns unless you plan to pour your radiator fluid over your 300g eye fillet later on...... Tip No.2: An oldie but a goodie - how to get home after busting your gear shift lever!
John Eacott, Member #4385 “Of course the landmark isn’t so much Ayers Rock, but the fact that Andrea actually rode on the back of the K16”
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IN THE CLUB TOOLBOX
By Tony Gray, Member #3905
E
ach month we are going to highlight a specialist tool that the club has in the toolbox, explain the tool’s purpose and BMW model application. Remember all of these tools can be made available for use at a club service day or for short term loan if you have an applicable service issue to resolve at home. Starting simple here is a standard half inch drive 27mm socket where the outer casing has been turned down in a lathe to reduce the outer diameter. The reduction in the socket outer diameter is to make it fit inside the swinging arm pivot point on the frame and release the nut securing the rear axle. The application is to all models in the /5, /6, /7 range of the 1970’s with swingarm frames.
PLUGGIN’ TYRES
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D
uring the Service Day on 5th June, an excellent demonstration of tyre plugging was given by a recent victim who shall remain nameless, let’s just call him TG. The demonstration included the tools and basic consumables riders should carry to repair tubeless tyre punctures and some alternatives, how to plug holes that are simple nail punctures or more complex splits, and things you can carry to get the tyre inflated enough to be able to move on. 2. Rosi reaming out the puncture hole and inserting the plug. Several witnesses later claimed she was whispering “I told you to take the bins out, Steve”. 1. Usually only this simple in our dreams.
4. A long-lasting result. 3. Slicing the excess plug off close to the tyre to prevent it pulling out.
The Cargol Turn & Go Snap-off puncture repair pin. Just do the opposite of what you’d do with Excalibur.
5. TG demonstrating a CO2 cartridge inflator. Job done.
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RATS RIDE TO NABIAC
staying over night at Tenterfield. Paul Skerman (BMWMCQ club member) and his wife Viki were riding around the wineries of the Hunter Valley Like most good rides it starts with someone and would meet us in Taree. That left Phil saying “Lets go to ???”. Gresham, myself and old mate Greg who rides a Can Am Spyder to leave Friday morning, rain, his ride started with Roger Bylett saying “I hail or shine and find as many twisty roads as we think the Rats should go to the motorbike could. museum at Nabiac”. Who’s Roger, well he was a test rider and writer for the Australian Friday 30/4. I met Phil at Yamanto Maccas at Motorcycle News back in the 80’s. 7.30am. It was a lovely 14°C and fine so Phil took a photo of our bikes, the golden arches and sent it to Roger with the words “You should be here cream puff”. We headed to Boonah and onto Rathdowney to pick up Greg at 9am. Another photo to Roger then headed down the Mt Lindesay Hwy to Kyogle and on to Casino where we stopped for fuel. So far the day had been perfect, a pleasant 19°C, sunny and great twisty roads. The Summerland way (B91) through the forest is another enjoyable ride. In the distance we could see the storm clouds building so a quick stop to put on the wet weather gear which was Phil Gresham’s R1250RT a good move as the heavens opened up as we The Rats are a group of guys who go entered Grafton. Lunch was at the Crown Hotel riding once a month, from various backgrounds, on the back deck and watching the rain. some of which are BMW club members also. The rain stopped as we rode down The date was set, the long weekend in May. Armidale road to Nymboida. The pub that Russell Roger started with emails showing a route Crowe once owned is now privately owned and down the Pacific Hwy to Taree and back along now closed. Near Clouds Creek we had to stop the Oxley and up the New England to home. for roadworks. We found out that this section is This was to cater for those who still worked. being straightened and they only open it for 7 Six weeks from departure the east coast was minutes each way at 11am and 2pm. Fully open hit with heavy rain, flooding and Taree was hit from 4pm to 8am. No mention of this on the hard. Land slides cut off Dorrigo from Bellingen NSW roads site. and the Oxley Hwy was also cut as a massive We timed it well with only a short landslide took out half of the road. One week wait before travelling through. A left turn up from departure and our group of 11 had split Tyringham road as we climbed up the range into 4 groups. and into Dorrigo. The traffic was steady due to Roger, head organiser, and 2 others the light showers and a few more vehicles than decided that the long weekend was going to normal as the road from Bellingen was still closed be wet and they didn’t like riding in rain. Who from the landslide. believes the BOM. The 3 younger guys who were Our accomodation was the Railway hotel/ still working would leave late Friday and go west
By Merv Bone, Member #3663
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RATS RIDE TO NABIAC
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motel. All bikes covered and parked up for the night after an eventful 430km ride. Phil took another photo and sent it to cream puff Roger. A reply came back “Enough with the photos”. Phil showed me a lovely pic of the bikes under cover with blue skies and a fluffy white cloud. We had grey clouds and nothing like his picture. Phils reply to me was “Oh I have an app that can change things like the sky etc”. We showed Greg and all had a laugh. That night we had a few drinks and a lovely meal at the Heritage Hotel just up the road. Phil on Hill St Walcha only made Warwick on Friday night due to heavy Saturday 1/5. A yummy breakfast at the only traffic and roadworks. They were in Guyra so cafe open at 7.30am, the Ambos were here we didn’t wait for them. Before leaving Walcha too. On the road by 9am with a top up of fuel I took Phil and Greg to Hill street. This street and some advice from a local, “Take it easy as has many trees full of autumn colours, reds, we have had a few motorbike crashes lately up yellow and orange, when mixed with the green here”. Phil and Greg had not seen the collection pastures and blue sky make for great viewing. of old trains and carriages out on Railway Street Another photo for Roger with no modification so I took them there. Sadly you can not get a needed. close look. Another photo to Roger of the trains in the mist. The ride down the mountain on Waterfall way (B78) is fantastic and the engineer must have been a motorcyclist as it has flowing curves, banked corner and a lot of twist/turns to enjoy. A short distance into this enjoyment it slowed to a crawl as a line of traffic was following an old guy in a A200 Benz out on a Sunday drive. Didn’t he realise it was Saturday, anyway it allowed us to enjoy the great scenery, valley’s with low fluffy white clouds and mist. Lush green pastures from all the rain and clear Barrington Tops Lookout blue skies. The temp had climbed from 12°C this Eventually we manage to get by the morning to a pleasant 19°C as we arrived at the rolling road block and enjoy a few more curves lookout at Barrington tops. The view was lovely then came more mud and roadworks. A left so another photo to the cream puffs back in turn at the intersection with Armidale road and Brisbane. Thunderbolts way is another good continued to Ebor and onto Armidale. Through twisty mountain road, a bit rough in patches town and onto Uralla and onto Thunderbolts and roadworks with a limit of 80ks for most of it. way to Walcha for fuel and lunch. The 3 young Only 1 Highway Patrol sighted about 50km out guys were to meet us for lunch but they had of Walcha. Down the range and into Gloucester,
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then Nabiac and up the A1 to Taree to our accomodation, the In Town Motor Inn arriving at 4pm. Another 420k easy day. Paul and Viki Skerman greeted us with a raised glass of wine which he had brought from the Hunter Valley. The 3 young guys arrived at 4.30pm so they made good time or we were slow enjoying the view at Barrington tops. Only 6 weeks earlier Taree was flooded and businesses near the river suffered damage, the pub being one of them. No food service but cold beer so it was across the road to the Italian restaurant for dinner. After a delicious meal it was back to the pub for a few more drinks before returning to the motel.
RATS RIDE TO NABIAC BSA, Triumph, Ariel, HD, Kawasaki including a Z1300, sorry my weak spot, you get what I’m saying lots of bikes.
After about 3 hours it was time for lunch, one quick group photo, and yes this one was modified by Phil and sent to Roger and the cream puffs. On with the wet gear as the heavens opened for the short ride to a cafe not far away. We had lunch and watched the rain fall, then it was up the A1 back to Taree. A lazy afternoon, some had a nap, some washed their Spyder, some gathered at our front door and drank all my bourbon, then it was 4pm. Skermie said “its 5 O’Clock somewhere” so off to the pub we went. Dinner that night was Chinese and Sunday 2/5. Breakfast at the Brown Sugar cafe very nice it was. We had a few bottles of wine for all and then it was time to ride to Nabiac. left over from dinner so we enjoyed them in the Paul Skerman was ride leader and in true form parking area of our motel before bed. all back roads out to Wingham, Burrell Creek, Krambach to Nabiac. About 60km all up through Monday 3/5. On the road by 9am and out to the countryside but I must say some of the roads Burrell Creek, Krambach, Gloucester and up were in very poor condition because of the rain the range to Barrington top lookout. Another and flooding recently. Kodak moment of the stunning view before heading down the twisty’s to Walcha with pies for lunch at Uralla. Greg advised us to stick to the speed limit from here to Tenterfield as the NSW Highway Patrol were hot and he was right, 4 marked and 1 unmarked to Glen Innes. The most HP’s for our whole trip. No problem for us as Phil Gresham was leader, with his new 2021 R1250RT adaptive cruise control set at 100, all was good. I enjoy the New England at this time of year, cool, clear days with the Poplar trees a golden yellow. Guyra had the lowest temp of 13°C. At Ben Lomond they are building a Phil’s bike and the trains at Dorrigo massive bridge structure to remove some of the The motorcycle museum opens at 10am sharp 60kmh corners and make it more safe. and will cost you $15.00 entry. If you have not By 3.30pm we were in our rooms at the Great been, put it on the must-do list. There are Central Hotel after another easy 390k day. Paul hundreds of bikes and a few old cars as well. It and Viki stayed in the Bank Guesthouse across had been 10 years since my last visit and they the road and Greg in the motel behind the pub. have sorted the bikes into various makes, BM, We all met in the bar at 5pm before enjoying a
RATS RIDE TO NABIAC lovely meal. The local rump steak that I had was walking around the field last week I reckon, it was that tender, Yum :) Now you may think that all the Rats do is eat and drink, not so, we discuss important stuff too. The young guys were having trouble keeping up with Phil and I thru the twisty’s. They ride sports bikes, a Ducati and a Triumph triple and with youth should be able to keep up as we were not going hard at all. Phil pulls out his phone and proceeded to quote todays figures to the group, max speed 102, Max engine speed 4115rpm, tyre Front 38 psi, Rear 42psi, Max left banking angle 36°, Max right banking angle 34°, Fuel range left 276km. He didn’t need to use the heated seats or grips today, not cold enough. Both sports bike had way too much air in the tyres for the rough conditions and neither riders like right hand corners. Their corner lines were not good and we convinced them that they needed more training.
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travelling to Tabulam. A new bridge has been built since I was here last, nice. Phil turned left here and followed Tabulam road along the Clarence river to eventually join the Clarence way. What a rough, potholed road that was. The ride up thru Old Bonalbo to Woodenbong also rough and we found more mud and roadworks. Oh well our bikes were filthy, what’s a bit more crunge. Lunch was at the Pitstop cafe then it was onto Summerland Way and the Mt Lindesay to Rathdowney, Boonah and home. Another 400k day but not so easy because of the very poor road conditions. I’m glad I was riding a GS. The Triumph now needs new fork seals as they began to weep. As the line goes “The best laid plans of Rats (mice) and men” our group had a very enjoyable 5 days away with some challenging conditions and would do it again in a heart beat. What happened you ask to the cream puff Rats? Roger and Nathan rode down the New England and back the following weekend with fine weather so they say. David didn’t go as Tuesday 4/5. Just 4 of us for this leg home, Sydney was having another “China Flu” cluster the 2 young guys, Phil and myself. On the road and he was flying to NZ soon and didn’t want by 8am, fine, dry, and 12°C. At Tenterfield set foot in NSW. we turned right on to the Bruxner Hwy (B60)
The Rats at the Nabiac Motorcycle Museum
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By Duncan Bennett, Member #4171
2. 1st World, led, hired bikes.
TRIPPIN’
S
No.1 means everything is within your locus of control and everything needs to be managed.
Mounted up and ready to follow
You can see some damn cool stuff on led rides
We have pretty much done all the options except self-guided long rides overseas on our own bikes – the equivalent of Platinum Class. Diamond Class is crossing multiple continents over very long periods – think Ted Simon, Heather Ellis, Sam Manicom, and Brian and Shirley Rix who have published their exploits. Lots have done these trips without the fanfare, for example our close friends Adrian and Hera rode Hobart to Helsinki in 2019 on a 1200GS and a Kwaka Versys 300, but were only visible to their passive-aggressive Facebook friends. We are down maybe in Gold Class, but as editors of the BMWMCQ we can offer opinions on anything we want, and the membership are forced to read our wafflings with eyes wide open Clockwork Orange-like. Get the matchsticks out people, and strap in.
We originally discovered the biggest “but” for led tours on our 80-day Cairo to Cape Town (actually Alexandria to Agulhas, but the C’s are better known) tour, and that is a led tour stops for no-one. Severe repercussions from last night’s I-swear-that-chicken-lookedcooked? Hoover Imodium and nappy up.
olo world traveller or weekend warrior? Prefer to go your own way, or love the camaraderie of a led ride? GPS tragic or paper map old skooler? The options and nuances are without limit, limitless if you will. Which you won’t, because you probably have something better to do, hopefully planning your next ride.
No.2 means show up and ride with someone organising where you start, stop, supply, and stay. Super easy, and the advantages are that you are less likely to miss good stuff and you are guaranteed to make great and even lifetime friends on the bigger trips. Buts, there are always a few buts. And they can be big buts.
So what are the options? From most to least personal effort: 1. Self-guided on own bikes – across multiple continents including 3rd and 2nd World.
The biggest “but” of led rides Come off and hurt? Sort yourself out in the local hospital while the group moves on. Can’t ride
TRIPPIN’
for an extended period? We’ll wave goodbye to you, and you’ll wave goodbye to your money while you and the tour company staff back in their country of origin help you organise getting yourself and your bike home. Even our New Zealand GPS-led ride for two weeks in 2018 had this problem. All accommodation was pre-booked, so if it was 3°C and raining, harden up. You’re riding. And again the next day with your wet gear back on.
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We’ve known many who were simply way out of their skill and comfort zone on certain days, you only need to be in this situation for an hour for something very bad to happen. Often there is no retreat possible, and we have friends who experienced such horrendous roads in Namibia that a third of their tour group had retired hurt or scared by the time they left the country. On return their GS’s were immediately sold and cruisers purchased, a tragic end to adventure riding for them. The moral of the story? Do some research on where you are going and train for it.
Another big “but” can be the led tour 10% d-head factor. Our first South American tour had one utter tool named Roman who was also known for dangerously Roamin’ all over the road, and some of our friends have horror stories of selfish and obnoxious d-heads on their trips. We have been incredibly lucky on our led tours. 15 riders on our 2019 Compass Alaska tour, and all great people, literally all you’d happily sit next to at dinner, and two years later most are now close friends we communicate with regularly. These friendships This sign wasn’t helping are indeed a huge plus for led rides and will give Another potentially large “but” for led you a network of friends all over the world. adventure tours is that no-one is going to train you to ride the sorts of roads you may find yourself being led onto. A bit like the disasters on Mt Everest a few years ago, people paying very large sums of money to be led sometimes have surprising expectation that they don’t need to prepare as much as people doing it under their own steam.
A fantastic group - a big +ve of led tours
Might be led into deep sand? Be prepared!
Self-led rides overseas on hire bikes are getting closer to freedom. Want to stop because it’s raining or go a different way? No-one is going to tell you not to. As long as you have the bike back on the day you promised, do whatever you want. Most don’t allow you to stray from the bitumen without severe insurance issues, so you need to know this first, but besides that all good. And they often provide all the gear so
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TRIPPIN’
you can show up in a cocktail dress and still ride off comfortably.
Even on led rides the lack of tools can mean a lot of waiting around to fix minor issues Even a weekend hire can pay off big Negatives? Cost is a big one, approximately three weeks and it will be breakeven with shipping your own bike. Another biggie for longer trips is it ain’t your bike. No tools for making those simple adjustments and repairs, that bloody mirror will swing around unexpectedly just when you don’t need it to the whole trip. And that thing isn’t a windscreen! I never knew BMW made seats out of broken bricks? OMG we are in the 21st century and I’ve hired the only bike on earth without heated grips and it is 5°C! The list of things that your beloved back home has and the hire bike doesn’t just keeps growing. Hire bikes are always the model’s Poverty Pack.
Minor damage on hire bikes can become an argument on return. A month after the Alaska trip we received a notification from Motoquest in Anchorage that they were going to do us a huge favour and have Cindy’s hire F700GS front wheel rim dent repaired for US$750, rather than replace the wheel for US$1,250.
Note left hand mirror that was only useful for The “gotcha” photo the commuters in the next lane A lot of edge-of-the-emotional-seat
TRIPPIN’ argument took place, before miraculously finding a photo on the day we picked the bikes up, clearly showing the dent (fortunately right next to the valve) was already there. One of the most grovelling apologies ever was received from Motoquest, but without that lucky photo it would have been a big problem as they had our credit card details.
Freedom lies in being bold. And lying on grass. Self-guided on own bikes is the ultimate freedom. Can go wherever you want and stay wherever you want, although you end up with bookings that can’t be missed – think ferries to Tasmania. Even the Diamond Class struggle a bit with this as there is no such thing as a forever visa, or a road between Australia and Europe, or permanent nice riding weather. The
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positives are overwhelming; your own bike set up exactly how you want with the right luggage, protection, tools and tyres. Need to navigate? You’ve got a GPS with back-up iPhone mount. It falls over? Who cares, just another chance for a photo. Want to stay in a 5 star hotel? Do it. Want to camp in the middle of nowhere? Don’t do it, stay an extra night in the 5 star, budget be damned. Negatives for self-guided on your own bikes? You are entirely on your own, especially when out of range of the RACQ. Organising everything from the moment you decide to go, preparation is a major event – bike, gear, what to take to wear, documentation, medication, spares, maintenance, there is a lot of detail and a lot that can go wrong. If you have trouble chillin’ out and going with the flow, long overseas trips with other cultures and bureaucracy and sometimes being ripped off may well be a struggle. For some on long term trips it can ultimately morph into something like a job; you get up, you pack, you ride, you find things to eat and places to stay and have beers, and repeat. Having a partner is a huge plus, as long as they aren’t in the 10%. But the biggest “BUT” of all? BUT no matter how you go, you are riding.
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CHRISTMAS PARTY 2021
BMWMCQ Christmas Party 2021 Evans Head
Come and join in one of the major functions of the year. Saturday night at the exclusive use Lower Deck of the RSL Club.
Some people come on the Friday, make a weekend of it and we have a group dinner at the pub.
Date:
Saturday 4th December, 2021
Location: Evans Head RSL Club Lower Deck Cost:
Three Course Christmas Dinner $55 per head
Drinks:
Cash Bar
Accommodation Suggestions: The Bowlo (Party Central) - Luxury Cabins - res@evansheadbowls.com.au 02 6682 4343 Evans Head Pacific Motel – Motel rooms- pacificmotorinn@ozemail.com.au 02 6682 4318 Evans head Holiday Park – Cabins, Camping - evanshead@reflectionsholiday.com.au 02 6682 4212 Plus many Air BNB’s etc. in the area. To secure a seat at the dinner you must please pay $55.00 per head by bank transfer to the clubs Bank account: BSB 124-001 AC 10243020 Please ensure to add in remarks your name and the number of guests you are paying for. Once you have deposited the correct amount, please EMAIL treasurer@bmwmcq.org.au stating details of your deposit. This is an essential component of your booking.
Numbers will be limited so please book early.
RFDS STORY
JULY 2021
Helping QLD riders
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This story is reproduced with permission from the RFDS Supporter Magazine, Summer 2020 edition and highlights the assistance provided to this rider and Mum in her time of need by the RFDS. To donate to the very worthwhile work done by the RFDS click the link below and remember to also throw some cash into the Donation Tin when it is shaken at the next monthly ride! rfds.co/flyingdoctor
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JULY 2021
A GLANCE BACK
Our Glance Back this month is from July 2011 when Mark Gilbert led the “Ronnie Biggs Breakfast Ride”, details below. I think we need to find out more about this interesting sounding event....
We think we know the “when”, the year 2000 - and we think we know a couple of familiar faces, but where was it taken? (Photo provided by Tony Malone).
JUNE LUNCH RIDE PICS
JULY 2021
The June lunch ride was rescheduled from Tumbulgum due to uncertain border conditions and moved to the popular O’Shanley’s Hotel at Clifton. A good crowd attended and once again we visited Tins & Trays in Gatton for a coffee and sweet treat! A trio of Tigers!
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JULY 2021
he June club ride started at BP Yatala, or Staplyton as some like to call it. There isn’t a pie shop at Staplyton so it tends to be the lead role understudy on the playbill. Destination? The Gold Coast Motor Museum, who knew that place existed? Luckily the ride leader and tail end Charles/Paul did. The objective of the ride was to avoid straight roads, which is reasonably easy to achieve in the Gold Coast hinterland. All ready, it was inevitably west along Stanmore Road, left onto the Bowdezay - Beenleigh Road, and a right onto Veivers Road, very scary for corner markers. Wandering along “Room for a Pony” country and into Tamborine, the first serious twisties were had heading south into North Tamborine, a little impeded by 4-wheeled loiterers. Tolerably crowded riding was had to Spice of Life Cafe in South North Tamborine Mountain, where coffees and pastries were pursued like a 12 year old Tribute in the Hunger Games carrying a groin injury. Carbo’ed and mounted up, the rather predictable route continued through Tamborine-Whatever and east off the cliff down Henri Robert Drive. This was last
MONTHLY CLUB RIDE attempted on an F800GS on a GS Experience day back in 2017, so there were a few nerves but I swear the road has been upgraded as the expected suicide corners (with grabbing of the front brake lever like it was the last bottle of American Honey in Dan Murphys) didn’t appear. Following some cars down resulted in giving thanks that asbestos was no longer used in brake pads, as the smell of burning indicated pad wear was in the upper quartile. Poor old automatics - one pedal for go, one pedal for stop. Safely to the bottom, it was back up the hill - damn you closed Goat Track - to Beechmont Road. A brief re-group pause due to a minor mechanical drama on a non-BMW conveyance, and we were heading south. Traffic was surprisingly light, only the odd scary sports bike rider or hopeful koala spotter was encountered. We advanced into Advancetown, or nearly did, making a reverse advance to end up on the same road we’d started on. The GPS had been given total control over the final bit, and all my whinging about its ability to do things so completely at odds with logical process was silenced. At least until next
Donna presented the “Smack my Arse and Call me Cindy” hot chilli sauce to someone appropriate
MONTHLY CLUB RIDE
JULY 2021
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time it does something insane. This was Gold Coast hinterland like I’d not previously experienced, winding roads through the gentle rolling foothills, lots of room for Ponys/ Shetlands/Potbelly Pigs/Mega Fauna, a very pleasant approach to the Gold Coast Motor Museum, which by now we all knew existed.
1958 236cc BMW Isetta microcar, top selling single cylinder car in the world
Glorious day for it at Stanley’s Bar and Restaurant Don and Kate (with Elvis just over the bonnet) very happy with their trade-in for the K1300R Comfortable that the R1200RT is not a chook chaser
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JULY 2021
CLUB TRAINING SUBSIDY
BMWMCQ TRAINING COURSE SUBSIDY
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our club encourages all members to continue to improve as a rider and offers a financial incentive to foster greater uptake in rider training. A broad interpretation of training has been adopted to include First Aid Training and Traffic Accident site safety management. The intention of the subsidy scheme is to not only improve the road craft of individual members but also to enhance the safety and enjoyment of club runs and events for all participating members. These are the simple rules to qualify for a subsidy: 1. Every financial member is eligible. 2. Subsidy is limited to one in three years for each member eg subsidy June 2021 re-eligible June 2024. 3. Subsidy provided in the form of a $50 reimbursement after course has been completed and invoice presented to the Treasurer. 4. The applicant must present details and receive approval for the intended training course from the Club Secretary prior to the course being undertaken. There you have it, an incentive to help to make you a better and safer rider. If you undertake a course please let us know your thoughts on the success of the course, positive or negative. Tony Gray - President BMWMCQ
Having attended the Level 1 braking and cornering skills course by TopRider and excellent Trainer Bernie Hatton - we can highly recommend!
FOR THE AIRHEADS
JULY 2021
https://www.mmmsbmwboxerworks.com.au/ Below is a link for the Wedgetail Ignition Systems Australia FB site. https://www.facebook.com/wedgetailaustralia
Here is a little demo from Mark on stripping a difficult wheel for re-spoking: https://www.facebook.com/Boxerworks/videos/1679784825565899/
Editor; You want re-spoking do you? I’ll give you re-spoking!!!
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ADVERTISING & BMW SUPPORTS
Confirmation has been received that BMWMCQ Members are eligible for a 10% discount on accessories at Morgan & Wacker. Customers are required to show proof of membership at the time of purchase!
ADVERTISING & BMW SUPPORTS
JULY 2021
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Brisbane BMW Motorcycle Specialists Need your BMW motorcycle serviced? We can also help ensure your pride and joy stays in top nick. Northside Motorcycle Tyres and Service has the latest software for BMWs enabling us to re- set service reminders, and assist with diagnostic testing and component testing making it more efficient to solve any problems with your bike. Log book servicing which won’t void your warranty. Book in for a BMW motorcycle service today with our expert team and you can be confident that Your pride and joy is in good hands.
BMW Motorcycle Tyres & Accessories Planning on hitting the road soon? Stop by our showroom to check out our great range of tyres, luggage bags and riding gear to suit Adventure or Sport Touring.
FREE BMW Motorcycle Safety Inspection Report But perhaps more importantly, be prepared before you head off! Book in for your FREE safety inspection report. This simple check can mean the difference between a hassle-free ride versus getting stuck on the side of the road with no phone coverage a long way from the nearest town. “NEW WEBSITE” SHOP ONLINE FOR ALL YOUR MOTORCYCLE TYRES & ACCESSORIES WITH THE ADDED BENEFIT OF AFTERPAY “BUY NOW, PAY LATER” HTTPS://NSMCTYRES.COM 1/14 Paisley Drive Lawnton Qld 4503, Phone 07 3205 6505 Email info@nsmctyres.com
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JULY 2021
Very Useful Services & Cool Stuff
Call now for our frEE parts CataloguE
Genuine & Aftermarket parts (from 1955 onwards) • Accessories • Australian Agent for Hepco & Becker Luggage Systems and Crash Bars Electronic Ignition Systems Unit 5&6 / 9 Hayden Crt Myaree, Perth, 6154 Western Australia
www.munichmotorcycles.com.au TrAde enqUiries WelCoMe (open till 7pm est.)
??? SMOOTH OUT YOUR RIDE ???
We’ve got you covered. GENUINE AUSTRALIAN
SHEEPSKIN SEAT COVERS
Phone: 08 9317 3317 Fax: 08 9317 3359 email: munich@iinet.net.au
ADVERTISING SPACE AVAILABLE
From business card to full page, all sizes are available.
The BMWMCQ electronic journal is distributed to members and interested parties throughout Queensland and basically anywhere that has the internet. In addition, the journal is issued to other BMW affiliated Clubs. Get your message out to people who own, ride and restore BMW motorcycles.
Good Wool Store Pty Ltd 49 Queen St BERRY 2535 P 02 4464 2081. F 02 4464 3344
www.goodwool.com.au
Phone your requests to Don Grimes - Ph: 0411 601 372
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JULY 2021
Taking the Travel Plunge....... Cindy Bennett, Member #4170 COVID has been a blasted nuisance I must say.
We were meant to have been just returning from an “Ultimate South America” trip of 100+ days, damn you to hell COVID.
However, it’s not all about me – some people have actually got sick, and some others sadly succumbed to it.
So, when will this mess be over with and we can be free to swan all over the world again? Well, lacking a crystal ball we have decided to take a punt on 2023. After the excellent news that Compass Expeditions have been resurrected and planning trips, we received a very welcome email in the inbox inviting us to a pre-booking opportunity as we were impacted by not being able to do the planned Ultimate South America trip. So, where to go – we had 2 options to consider. The first being the epic “Road of Bones” expedition of 105 days starting May 2023 and going from London to Magadan in Russia. Very, very tempting. Second option was the Patagonia Explorer of 18 days from Santiago, Chile to Ushuaia, Argentina.
Chile 2015
THE LAST WORD
Lots of consideration was given to both options and while we were initially keen on the Road of Bones, several factors decided against this option with the timing not being quite right with me just starting a new permanent role (hmmm asking for around 5 months off after less than 2 years tenure…) and Duncan’s consultancy work having to be put hold for that period.
So, Patagonia it is! January 2023 it starts and we will be on hire BMW’s – the familiar 700GS for me and the usual 800 for Duncan (he loves that 21” front wheel). This will be our second riding trip in South America, and I am keen to return to experience the excellent roads, food and wine and spectacular scenery that this region in renowned for. Also, it is kind of poetic that we will then have bookended the American continent – top of Alaska in 2019 and then down to the Southern most point (hopefully…) in 2023.
A self-planned trip to fill in the middle bits will be all that is needed – but hey that can be a retirement trip in a few years…. hang on, what about Road of Bones - definitely on the cards in 2025!
Will we be able to travel the world in 2023? I am an optimist by nature, so I am saying a hopeful YES. But planning must happen and risks taken. Deposit paid – tick. The proposed route, below:
OLDEN DAYS
JULY 2021
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And another blast from the past - Geoff Hamon on his first and only new BMW in 1995 - a fine machine indeed! 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 A Motorcycle Courier in the Great War Captain W.H.L. Watson Australia Motorcycle Atlas With 200 Top Rides (6th Ed) Hema Maps 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 The BMW Story - Production & Racing Motorcycles Ian Falloon Bahnstormer - The Story of BMW Motorcycles LJK Setright BMW Company History 1972 BMW Munich 2UP and OVERLOADED 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 General Meeting or other arrangements can be made.
