|
 We met at Reg's place in Yarrambat under a sunny blue sky, his plea to Crankos (the Greek god of good weather for  motorcyclists) was answered, and apart from some blustery winds we enjoyed good conditions all day.
Classics were well represented on the ride and included two guests from the Vincent HRD Owners Club Vic Inc. We were also pleased to have Edith Irving (Phil Irving's widow) accompanied by a companion travelling with us by car.
From Yarrambat we rode to Whittlesea, up the sweeping curves on the hill to Kinglake West and then north to Flowerdale with the King Parrot Creek on our left, all the foliage looking fresh, green and sparkling in the sunlight. Also enjoying the conditions was an extensive cycle race, so there was the occasional 'pelaton' to avoid.
Click here to see more photos or go to the Gallery
At the Flowerdale pub we slowed to turn left and head along the attractive valley that leads to Strath Creek. No stopping for a coffee break this time, Jenny's rock cakes were calling, so at Strath Creek we turned north finally arriving at the privately operated Kerrisdale Mountain Railway on the Goulbourn Valley Highway.
Parking on the grassy slopes was a challenge for some of the larger bikes but small squares of MDF board had been thoughtfully provided to go under our stands. This narrow gauge tourist railway was first opened to the public in 2007 and consists of two beautifully presented diesel locos, one pulling two covered passenger carriages, the other an open carriage. But first things first - the freshly made rock cakes were delicious and we enjoyed these at the open air tables while looking out at the view of the surrounding hills. Then it was time to catch the trains, both taking all 30 of us in the one go. No.1 loco was driven by Andrew and No.2 by Melissa as we steadily zig-zagged our way to the top of the hill enjoying impressive scenery on the way.
Typical of the attention to detail at Kerrisdale, several trees at the line side were clearly and professionally labelled, for example 'Peppermint gum' etc which added to the interest.
Arriving at the novel 'station' on the top of the hill we disembarked and Andrew gave us an informative talk about the early exploration and development of the area, pointing out and naming the many distant areas and mountains. After our descent Andrew then demonstrated most of the fully working stationary steam engines housed in the spotless museum, some quite complex and beautifully engineered. The Kerrisdale Mountain Railway is without doubt a destination well worth riding to, not only for the spectacular train ride but also the museum full to the gills with high quality working and static exhibits.
After carefully remounting our bikes on the hillside and negotiating the gravel driveway back down to the highway, it was off on a brisk ride to Yea for lunch where we spread out in groups spending a relaxing hour in the various bakeries and cafes. On a sunny Sunday there are almost as many bikes as cars in Yea.
Thanks to Reg for organising the ride, to Peter Cullen for his trailer duties, and those who corner marshalled. Also to our hosts at the KMR - Andrew, Jenny and Melissa.
On the ride:
Reg Hammond, Honda CX500, 1982
Ed Sleightholm, Ariel VH 500, 1957
Adrian Nash, Kawasaki Z250, 1981
Richard Mason, BMW R60/5, 1973
Richard Somerville, Honda CB750, 1975
Grant Barrett, Triumph TR6C, 1969
Richard Haughton, Honda FT500, 1982
Andrew Davenport, Norton, 1972
Philip McArdle, BMW R90S, 1975
Charlie Sharpe, Vincent Comet, 1950
Cameron McMahon, Vincent Comet, 1950
Graham Randle, BMW R90/6, 1976
Ted Lhuede, BSA Gold Flash, 1957
Alan Kelly, Velocette MSS, 1955
Mark Cleeland, Suzuki 750, 1995
Tom Myers, Yamaha FZ6, 2008
Graham Boulter, Triumph Bonneville, 2008
Ross Patrick, Kawasaki 1200, 2004
Bill Weedon, Honda ST1300, 2003
John & Vicki Best, Suzuki Bandit, 2008
Edith Irving and friend, car
Peter Cullen, back-up trailer
David & Jenny Langridge, car
Ray & Elvira Isles, car.
John Best
|
