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| the Backward Odyssey... | |
| When
Murray Parker suggested that our Group hold a display of
our motorcycles, little did we expect the final outcome
of that suggestion. As Murray had made the suggestion it
seemed only fair that he head the organising committee. From a small suggestion it grew into; a Bike Show in the shopping Mall; a second display involving local traders, veteran & vintage enthusiasts, accessory manufacturers and retailers; and a rally style campover weekend. The committee came up with the name 'Backwards Odyssey', as when we have an Odyssey we all get together and go somewhere. In our case we had everyone coming to us, hence the name. We were concerned about the weather for a while but it was perfect for the whole weekend. Numbers were down a bit on what we had hoped for though, but the weather down Melbourne way may have put a few people off. Nevertheless we had sufficient numbers to put on an impressive display of bikes. We rode from the camping area behind Lake Victoria into the heart of Shepparton, with help from the police, and parked in the mall. It would be quite a surprise for many people, unaware of our coming, to see the mall fill with bikes from one end to the other in just a few minutes. I counted 116 bikes in the mall and some of the machines which took centre stage were the Drysdale 750 V8 (to those who saw it at the GP - we also heard it!!) the huge Brazilian Amazona 1600 with sidecar and trailer, an MV Augusta 750 and a 1947 Vincent with sidecar. I thought the MV was going to shatter a few shop windows when it was ridden out of the mall! Hard to top though was Lionel Miles 318 CID Valiant engined V8 trike, which has really to be seen to be believed. I think a few who saw it still don't believe it! Could be an interesting way to get to Bunbury. The mayor of Shepparton was introduced to the gathering crowd by our president Dennis. He congratulated Murray and crew and the Goulburn Valley Group for putting on a great show, and for supporting the Arthritis Foundation. Shortly after, he left the showgrounds as he had arrived at the mall - on the back of Murray's 1500 Goldwing. Shortly after midday all bikes proceeded to the end of Lake Victoria for further public viewing. Some beautifully restored vintage & veteran machines were on display, as well as new models supplied by local dealers. That evening was just what rallies are all about. A bloody good time! The raffle was held beside a large camp fire (thanks Jonesy!) and many people went home with excellent prizes. All prizes were donated by businesses in Shepparton and Melbourne bike shops. Our Group thanks each and every one for their support. Sunday morning dawned another beautiful day. Camping gear was packed on to the bikes and the camp site was left as we found it. Lionel Miles conducted a church service under the blue sky and gum trees and anyone who has been to the famous last words rally will know what an excellent job Lionel does. Next year, with more time to plan and advertise, the event will be bigger and better, so pencil in the 9th, 10th and 11th of October 1998 when we host the second Backwards Odyssey. Regards to all. Max Hubbard Assistant secretary Goulburn Valley Group |
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where? Canowindra -
nsw |
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| For those Ulysses
members who won't be making the ride to Bunbury for the
AGM, why not consider central west New South Wales. Canowindra is a great ride from Sydney (approx. 4 hours) or Canberra (2 1/2 hours). Marti's Balloon Fiesta is a spectacle of colour, fun, and good old country hospitality. The Fiesta is a four day event with many highlights. Every morning and afternoon will see the mass ascension of 50 hot air balloons, including the town mascot Canowindra the kookaburra. Other great shapes that have been invited include a truck, a cow, and a giant Ferrero Rocher chocolate. The Fiesta will also provide some great entertainment with the Enormous Horns concert on Friday night. The highlight of the Fiesta will be the spectacular 'Balloon Glow', fantastic fireworks, and the Bushwackers concert on Saturday night. Sunday will be more relaxed with a picnic style day of entertainment and a mini air show. The weekend also includes country craft & produce markets, sheep dog trials, tractor pull, arts & crafts, and a sheep shearing contest. Entry to the Fiesta is $10 for 4 days, $5 for children. For further enquiries call Ulysses member Phil & Kathy Ellis on 02 6344 1560, or for accommodation enquiries, Joanne White 02 6344 1896. |
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