It is that time of the year when we ride to honour the memory of our past President and friend to all, Stocky.

Sunday, the 12^th December was overcast with patchy rain as we gathered at Polly and John’s home in Cockatoo, or as John once said to me, “The Eastern clubrooms of the Classic Motorcycle Club of Victoria”.

I know it may sound silly to some, but I always feel a strong presence of his company on this ride as I reflect on his overall input into the club.  Thank you Polly for allowing us to continue to use Stocky’s clubrooms.

Graham Boulter was again the lead rider this year and upon signing the ride register, it was noticed bags that contained a whistle and Chuppa Chup, what could this be for I thought! It was not long before I was reminded that on the event of the previous year, Graham had pulled out all stops to ensure all participants arrived back for the BBQ as close together as possible.  The whistle to blow loudly if lost and the Chuppa Chup to suck on until help arrived.  Good thinking Graham.

After a short briefing from Graham we headed off as per map supplied to Cockatoo, Mount Burnett and Pakenham Upper.  The next leg to Launching Place is an absolutely brilliant ride and takes in Gembrook, Kurth Kiln Regional Park and Hoddles Creek before a regroup at Launching Place, continuing down the highway to Seville before a toilet stop and chin wag.  Onward to Wandin East, Monbulk and Yellingbo for another regroup.

We were nearly back for the BBQ and I was asking myself did Graham really have to supply the back-up pack!  A short ride down through Nungana to Polly’s and the answer was NO. Not a whistle was heard, but I did enjoy the Chuppa Chup when I arrived home – thanks Graham.

We were now back for the BBQ and a lot of members had arrived by car, which bolstered the numbers somewhat.  Once again there was an abundance of various salads and sweets to accompany our meat and beverage of choice.  You can always count on our ladies to make sure we are all well fed.

For me, it was a well organised ride and BBQ, with all of us having a story or two to tell about Stocky.

Thanks to Polly for your hospitality and Graham for the ride.

Richard Haughton

Participants

Graham & Lynne Boulter                    BMW R90/6             1975
Ross Patrick                                        Norton                       1956
Wayne Killingsworth                            AJS 16MS               1956
Richard Haughton                              Moto Guzzi                 2003
Derek & Judy Pickard                       MZ 300                       1984
Burger Drake                                      Honda ST1100         1990
Peter Cullen                                        BMW R60/5               1971
Jol Dunn                                              BMW R90/6               1975
Colin & Julie Sullivan                         MG                              1967