— Wheelieharro

28 Nov

Day 4 - Heathcote to Seymour -55kms

Last evening we had a great "final dinner" at David's house. The BBQ was expertly prepared by Ellio and the salads by Jeff. Sitting out on the verandah was a very pleasant experience enjoying great food, company and some good red wines ( some from the Heathcote region courtesy of Dave). Although there was a bit of lightening and thunder, the rain stayed away so we could talk about the issues of the day!!!!

After a good night of sleep it was up early (courtesy of the galahs swarking !) and in to breakfast consisting of bacon and eggs on toast expertly cooked by Dave ...what a way to start the day. After cleaning up we were on our way at about 8.30am to Seymour...

Our first stop was at an old gold mining site just out of Heathcote to see what the miners did to the land when they used "water blasting" to separate gold bearing rock from the soil....It has left the area much like a "mars landscape" and the land is unable to be used...

Leaving Heathcote it was up the Mc Ivor Highway north to Tooborac for morning tea. Along the way we decided to ride as a group with rotating leaders which we have tried unsuccessfully on other rides...So it was with some trepidation that Phil organized this part of the ride ( approx. 20kms)....well surprise, surprise ....it actually worked and in to a rather strong southerly breeze it made for good riding....Well done Phil!

After some good coffee at Tooborac it was on to Seymour with the wind coming over our right shoulder. It made for very fast riding often hitting speeds of over 40 km/h. Along the road we passed the Puckapunyal Army Camp which brought back memories to me of my Army Cadet days at school.

Arriving in Seymour at about midday we found an excellent café opposite the rail station for lunch.

Those who were heading back to Melbourne by train sorted out the timetable and Jeff, Anthony, Ray and I packed the ute and headed home by car. We had a slight deviation back to Seymour as I lost my "pouch" with my money clip and credit cards...bugger really but all my fault!

As this is the last pot for this trip it is important to thank Gary Giles for his excellent organization on what was a great 4 days and to thank Dave for his hospitality in Heathcote.

The memories of the trip will stay with those who participated forever.

According to my Garmin we travelled about 265kms over very pretty country with good weather and great company....congrats to all wheeliebinners who came on the journey

Ellio "cooking up a storm" on the BBQ