the beavertown news - ulysses club · will still have the gymkhana. 2016 national agm....
TRANSCRIPT
1
The
Beavertown News
Monthly newsletter of MARLBOROUGH BRANCH Ulysses Club of NZ Inc
June 2015
“Motorcyclists rate as clinically happier than the rest of the
population, it’s a recently proven medical fact”
( Kevin Kinghan, Editorial NZ Bike Rider Magazine, June 2015 )
QUOTE OF THE MONTH...
ABOVE: 9 May 2015, Branch members welcomed two
visitors to Coffee morning. One was ex-Marlborough
member Maurice Bain (now a Nelson member) seen at the
left of this photo and the other was expat New Zealander
and fellow Ulyssian, Paul Jones (centre) from
Mount Lindesay Branch in Brisbane.
Read more on page 15.
ABOVE: The Retreads like to get involved
and Bob McCrindle’s excited to be learning
a new skill. What’s he knitting? -
find out on pages 13 & 14
There’s a Branch Overnighter
scheduled for June—
see page 11 for details & book
your accommodation ASAP.
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Ulysses Members Trades Directory
Max Lichtnecker 0274 321 449
or 03 578 1331
Box 938
BLENHEIM
You can advertise your business in this publication for $75 per year (12 Adverts - Business Card Size)
Contact: Kevin or Nicky 5728588 for more information
Advertise your Business.
Place your Business card here and
support your Branch at the same time.
See below for details
We Stock:
Dri Rider Apparel,
Oxford accessories,
Nitro, HJC, FFM,
Nolan and other Helmets.
Metzler, Michelin and
Continental Tyres,
Motul and Yamalube Oils,
plus much more …
On presentation of your
Ulysses membership card
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Hi all. Whilst Marlborough is putting on a nice Indian summer it certainly has promoted some good turn outs on recent rides. Your new Committee has decided in future year’s that ANZAC day will be our fund raising ride in support of one of the rescue services. We are holding firm that the second weekend in December will be our Salvation Army Toy Run, even though it clashes again this year with Nelson. We are discussing with the Nelson Committee a joint function. We will keep you up to date on this as it progresses along. Next month sees a Branch overnighter to the Mt. Lyford Lodge on June 13
th.
You will have already seen the advertising – now let’s get out there and support it. Remember it’s attendance that’s important. It’s not all about the method of transport. In July you’ll have the opportunity to attend our Mid Year Dinner. This is being subsidised with Branch funds (money that we raise at local level – does not come from annual subscriptions) so come and enjoy the evening. Let us say thank you for your support of our branch. All branch members will be given the opportunity to subscribe to the Branch Newsletter this month. If you need clarification regarding the invoice you receive then give me a call. Enjoy the ride, Kevin Bright # 7124
CONTACTS:
BRANCH COORDINATOR
Kevin Bright Ph. 572 8588
Hawkesbury Heights Vineyard
47 Kahu Way, R.D.2, Blenheim 7272
SECRETARY
Jeff Champion Ph. 577 9399 23 Bary Street, Blenheim 7201 [email protected] TREASURER Wayne Brock Ph; 578 7233 COMMITTEE MEMBERS
Evan Teale Ph. 578 7323
Kelvin Watson Ph. 577 6822
John King Ph. 578 6858
Gisela Schulze Ph. 578 1618
RIDES COORDINATOR (Sunday rides) Committee members WELFARE OFFICER; Chris Donaldson Ph; 574 2421 Email; [email protected] RETREADS RIDES (Thursday rides) Murray Brooks Email; [email protected] Ph: 570 5530 BRANCH SHERIFF
Mac Trilford Ph. 573 7448
BRANCH QUARTERMASTER (Ulysses Gear Orders) Jo de Reeper Ph. 579 1173
BRANCH HISTORIAN Jane Laing Ph. 577 6663 COMMUNITY NOTICES ORGANISER
Jo de Reeper Ph. 579 1173
WEBMASTER Bob Marks Ph, 574 1177 Email; [email protected] Branch Web Page: www.ulysses.org.nz/marlborough BRANCH RIDER MENTORS Chris de Wagt Ph. 577 7238 Kevin Bright Ph. 572 8588 Nicky Bright Ph. 572 8588 NEWSLETTER EDITOR Jane Laing Ph.577 6663 Email; [email protected] Post; 75A Weld Street, Blenheim 7201
Please refer all membership enquiries
to the Branch Coordinator or a
Committee member
DISCLAIMER
While contributions and adverts are welcome, no responsibility can be accepted regarding claims or statements made by members or advertisers
in respect of products or services offered. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Editor or of the Committee, but
are those of the writer/s. The Editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or decline some contributions.
Coordinators Report…
Wally Allen
Jim Barrett
Peter Beckett
Allan Graham
Barry Hope
Barry Hutchison
Doug Jackson
Rob Johns
Tony Kerr
Mark Newman
Evan Teale
June 2014
Deadline for contributions to the
next newsletter is;
June 20th
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Meeting :7th May 2015 Red Cross Hall, Redwood street, Blenheim Attendees: Kevin Bright, Kelvin Watson, Jeff Champion, Evan Teale, Gisela Schulze, John King, Apologies : Wayne Brock, Visitors Nicky Bright, Jane Laing and Colin Simpson. Meeting started: 7.02pm Minutes of the previous meeting: Read and confirmed. J.C and K.W Matters arising: Inwards correspondence Approved K.B and J.K 10/04/2015 Reply from Jo de Reeper re club patch. 10/04/2015 Reply from Nelson branch re Toy Run dates. 10/04/2015 News Letters from Far North, Canterbury, North Harbour, Nelson, Waikato and Auckland. 10/04/2015 Offer of discount clothing from Resurgence Clothing Co. 29/04/2015 Email from Natcom advising increase in subs. Discussion about inwards correspondence. Nicky Bright to talk with demo graphics re screen printing a club patch. Secretary to reply to Nelson Branch. Explain history of toy run debacle and advise we are running our toy run on 12
th December.
Outwards correspondence Approved K.W and G.S 03/05/2015 Sent reports and minutes of our AGM to Natcom. 05/04/2015 Email to Jo de Reeper asking her to price a club patch. 29/04/2015 Email to Mike Hyde re speaking at one of our Social functions. General Business. Our rides coordinator reported a good turnout for our ride to Motueka. Thursday rides getting increasing numbers. Great turnout to the Alzheimer’s Ladies day visit. Thank you all the riders who helped out with this. White Ribbon ride. We have conformation that this event is on again later this year. We will await more detail. Bank Transfer. Allan de Reeper is to be asked if he can help with this. Charity rides. These were discussed and it was suggested we have our Rescue ride on ANZAC day. All agreed. 2016 will be our first. No Rescue ride will be run this year but we will organise a poker run to raise funds
for a chosen charity. Rides calendar, this year your committee will set the rides for each month. May 31
st decide on the day 1pm start
June 7th decide on the day 1pm start
June 14th Over night ( Mt Lyford Resort) 10am start
June 21st decide on the day 1pm start 28
th June Kaikoura (Donegal House) 10.30 start.
A fun ride is to be held (date to be advised) on a Saturday in June. We discussed a Remembrance ride to work in with other rider groups. Evan is to contact the Patriots and discuss this with them. Mid year social event. This will be held at the Woodbourne Tavern on July 18
th. A three coarse meal
which will be subsidised for financial members. Mid month social nights will continue each month except July. Kaituna Rally. An entry form was discussed. It was decided a ride should be organised for the Saturday morning. Kevin Bright agreed to set one up this time. We will still have the gymkhana. 2016 National AGM. Accommodation is filling fast. Bookings are required ASAP. The theme for this event is West Coast wear. Team wear will be discussed at a later date. In line with the local AGM, all members will have access to an electronic copy of our news letter each month for one year. The cost for a paper copy of the news letter will remain at $15. All your committee agreed on this price. Accounts for advertising will be sent out shortly after Wayne Brock returns from overseas. Accounts for the news letter will be sent out soon. Our Marlborough Ulysses brochure is due for a revamp. Nicky Bright showed us a sample brochure which has been approved and will be produced in the near future. The next Co-ordinators meeting is on 16
th to 18
th October
2015. Kevin Bright and another person are eligible to attend. The Old Orchard cafe ( formally Shellies) is now giving Ulysses members 10% of food as well as coffee`s and tea`s.
Meeting finished 9.00pm. Next meeting 4
TH June. 2014.
Red Cross hall. Redwood Street. Blenheim.
Minutes - Committee Meeting
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Quarter-Mistress Corner
Ulysses Gear - New Logo Patch
If you would like to purchase one of these or any other item
of Ulysses Gear, check out the Gear on the Ulysses NZ website, www.ulysses.org.nz
and make a note of what you want.
Then get in touch with me to order.- That way you don’t have to pay the freight.
Jo de Reeper # 6608
Jo’s contact phone # 579 1173
Jo’s email : [email protected]
The Ulysses Club, New Zealand logo patch
100mm diameter, embroidered cloth badge.
Price; $15.00
“Inspiring excellence in motorbike riding skills for maximum safety and enjoyment”
Vision, 2011.
Be a better rider No matter how much or how little
we ride, we all need to review
our riding habits on a regular
basis, to keep ourselves safe on
the roads.
Some riders feel uncomfortable
with group rider training sessions,
- we can help with our individual
rider offer.
Our ‘Refresher Rides’ are based
on the NZTA’s new CBTA ‘Full
Licence’ standards and
incorporate elements of the IAM’s
Advanced Rider Programme.
MARLBOROUGH
MOTORCYCLE RIDING SCHOOL
Relaxed and friendly support
to help you increase your
riding enjoyment.
100% local
Individual Refresher Rides.
Ride to Live subsidies
Discounts for Ulysses Club
members.
Proud Ulyssian supporting
Ulysses Riders.
Our offer to you Download a $40 subsidy voucher
from the Ride to Live website;
www.ridetolive.co.nz, - contact us
and book an individual 2 hour
‘Refresher Ride’ at the reduced cost
to you of only $50 gst incl.
(NB. This price also includes a $10
discount for Ulysses members).
Contact us
Home; (03) 577 6663
Cell; 021 0828 8713
Email;
Check out our Web site;
www.motorbikeschool.co.nz
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NOTICES FOR MEMBERS
FOR SALE
SCOOTER
2010 SYM 250i.EVO.
8141km. Excellent .Condition.
$4100.00
Phone Graham Check 021 2527140
Marlborough Branch Monthly Social Night &
Dinner.
Redwood Tavern Vines Restaurant.
(Wednesday) 10th June 6-30pm onwards.
Guest Speaker: Russell Montgomery.
Talking about his 11,000mile motorcycle trip across America.
Photos included.
Please ring Kelvin Watson, phone 5776822. by 3rd June if you will be there, as we need
numbers for catering purposes.
Effective for the Subscription Year
1st
January 2016 onwards.
Please note that the National Committee has voted to increase the subscriptions rates for membership to The
Ulysses Club of NZ Inc.
The new rates are: One Year Subscription $40.00
Three Year Subscription $100.00
This new rate is effective for the 2016 subscription year onwards. Accordingly any subs being paid for that year and onwards will be at the new rate regardless of when
they are paid.
For any new member joining the Ulysses Club this year the membership will be at the current rates up until the
30th September. From the 1
st October and onwards the
subscriptions will be at the new rates.
PLEASE NOTE: Joining fees remain unchanged as follows:
New member joining fee $35.00.
Overseas membership – add $20.00 pa. Bike Badge $10.00
Best regards,-
Nicky Bright # 7125
National Secretary The Ulysses Club of NZ Inc.
Do I know you?
Two women were sitting next to each other in a bar. After a while, one looks at the other and says, 'I can't help but think, from listening to you, that you're from Ireland.' The other woman responds proudly, 'Yes, I sure am!' The first one says, 'So am I! And whereabouts in Ireland are ya from?' The other woman answers, 'I'm from Dublin, so I am.' The first one responds, 'So, am I!! And what street did you live on in Dublin?' The other woman says, 'A lovely little area. It was in the west end. I lived on Warbury Street in the old central part of town.' The first one says, 'Faith, and it's a small world. So did I! So did I! And what school did ya go to?' The other woman answers, 'Well now, I went to Holy Heart of Mary, of course..' The first one gets really excited and says, 'And so did I! Tell me, what year did you graduate?' The other woman answers, 'Well, now, let's see. I graduated in 1964.' The first woman exclaims, 'The Good Lord must be smiling down upon us! I can hardly believe our good luck at winding up in the same pub tonight! Can you believe it? I graduated from Holy Heart of Mary in 1964 meself!' About this time, Michael walks into the bar, sits down, and orders a beer. Brian, the bartender, walks over to Michael shaking his head and mutters, 'It's going to be a long night tonight.' Michael asks, 'Why do you say that, Brian?' Brian answers, 'The Murphy twins are drunk again'.
Jeff Champion / Bob Marks
Wishing all the Best to Bob Marks (Wellington Hosp)
and Tom Percy (Nelson Hosp) who have both been in
hospital in the past month. Hope you’re on the mend by
now— we look forward to seeing you back on your feet
soon.
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RETREADS REPORT
Retreads ride Thurs 23 Apr. 11 bikes arrived at Wairau bridge for ride to Nelson, Lou J, Kelvin W, Derek S, Graeme C, Allan G, Carl M, Ray B, Gisela S, Noel D, Terry M, Lindsay L, Louise & Brian P in tin top. Catch ups at Rai Valley & Tahuna Bowling Club then on to Speights ale house for lunch. Met at Speights by Gordon B shortly after Rod C joined us for lunch. Great lunch enjoyed by all then on to view the classic motorcycles. What an incredible display three hundred bikes all in pristine and original condition two floors and some stacked four high, British American, Europe and one NZ. Every one amazed at the display and well worth the entry price of $20. You would be lucky to see a better collection. A nice ride home with the mandatory stop for refreshments at Rai valley. Lindsay L. #6264 MY DADDY SLEEPS NAKED
"Late again!" the third-grade teacher sternly said to little
Ranger. "It ain't my fault this time, Miss Russell. You can blame
this 'un on my Daddy. The reason I'm three hours late is my Daddy sleeps
naked!"
Now, Miss Russell had taught grammar school for thirty--odd years. Despite her mounting fears, she asked
little Ranger what he meant by that. Full of grins and mischief, and in the flower of his youth,
little Ranger and trouble were old friends,...... but he always told her the truth.
"You see, Miss Russell, out at the farm we got this here
low down fox. The last few nights, he done ate six hens.
Last night, when Daddy heard a noise out in the chicken pen, he grabbed his double barrelled shot gun and said
to my Ma, "That fox is back again... I'm a gonna git him!'' "Stay back," Daddy whispered to all us kids!
"My Daddy was naked as a jaybird -- no boots, no pants, no shirt!
To the hen house he crawled, just like an Injun on the
snoop. Then, he stuck that double-barrelled 12-gauge shotgun
through the window of the coop. As he stared into the darkness, with a fox on his mind,
our old hound dog, Rip, had done gone and woke up and comes sneaking up behind Daddy.
Then, as we all looked on, plumb helpless, old Rip done went and stuck his cold nose in my Daddy's crack!"
"Miss Russell, we all been pluckin' chickens since three
o'clock this mornin!"
Kelvin Watson #3602
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RETREADS REPORT
30 April 2015 – Slip Inn, Havelock.
I arrived at the layby before the Wairau Bridge out of Renwick a little bit past the designated time but luck was on my side, mainly as a result of such a large turnout, so my lateness wasn’t really noticed. After a brief pep talk from Murray about today’s ride, it was time to hit the road & enjoy the ride and the mild weather conditions.
Today’s participants included Evan Teale, Lindsay Learmonth, John Hadfield, Peter Nelson, Terry Maloney, Peter Unger, Gisela Schulze, John King, Noel Duff, Ray Beard, Kelvin Watson, Bill Harrison, Tania Coley - a prospective new member, Tom Brown, Danny McGowan, Stuart Paul, Peter Beckett, Murray Brooks, Mac Trilford, Brian Pearce, Gordon Berry & myself. If anybody has been missed out please don’t blame me – I was relieved of my duty to jot down names by our illustrious leader— so any complaints should be directed in the first instance to Murray!
We were subsequently joined by a few old farts from Nelson who answer to the names of Andrew, Ian, Heinz, Henry, Pete, Rod, Allan, JR, Bruce, Brian, Ken, Merv, John & last but not least Trevor Stanton.
All up around the 35 mark, not a bad effort for a bunch of old fellas and a couple of nice women brave enough to join our ranks.
One has to take one’s hat off to the staff of the Slip Inn, not only did they have to cope with our unruly mob, but also the passing public as well as catering for a fairly poncy private function comprised predominantly of what looked like a bunch of the suit brigade. It took a while to process orders and probably a longer than usual time to be served but that was acceptable given the sheer weight of numbers. If all the meals were as good as the one I had there should have been no complaints. In my humble opinion the staff did an admirable job.
Somebody whispered in my ear that Rod had addressed the Anzac Parade in Greymouth. I am not certain as to Rod’s association with the RSA & Greymouth in particular, but well done Rod. I had to do a similar thing at the Dawn Parade in Hunterville several years ago and it is a bit of an ordeal not only in the preparation but also in the delivery. After having had to listen to Rod talk on past rides, I have no doubt he would have had no problems with the delivery side!
Apparently John Hadfield is in the process of transferring from Ulysses Canterbury to Ulysses Marlborough so welcome John.
A little dickey bird told me Olive Duff is working very hard to boost the coffers to help towards the cost of taking herself & Noel to Alaska next month. After his enforced layoff with his leg I would think such a holiday is the perfect tonic to complete his convalescence. We all hope you both enjoy the trip and look forward to hearing about your exploits when you return.
While we were munching through our meals Murray suddenly appeared at the entrance to the area we were dining at with a stray bit of fluff beside him and called us all to attention. It turned out that the stray bit of fluff was a casual diner who had a distinctive Aussie accent and happened to be a member of Ulysses Australia & obviously rode with a group similar to our motley mob. During her short address it transpired that she came from
Western Australia which suddenly got the full attention of Peter Unger. I didn’t get the full gist of what they discussed but I came away with the impression that they had both resided in Perth so had a bit in common.
During their little repartee Peter mentioned that he had resided in the suburb of Gooseberry Hill in Perth. Somehow I can’t quite fathom or comprehend Peter choosing to live in an area with the name Gooseberry, let’s face it a Gooseberry is a “delicate fruit”. That’s definitely not something I would associate with Peter. But after a little bit of research I found the common denominator via the NZ Pocket Oxford Dictionary. One the one hand it describes a Gooseberry as a “yellowish-green berry with juicy fruit” & on the other, a “thorny shrub bearing the fruit”. To me it’s a no brainer but I will leave it over to you to decide which definition is more appropriate!
Bob 8033
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Motueka for lunch, 3rd May 2015
9am Sunday morning, sun’s up and it’s a typical clear, sunny & calm Autumn morning. I’m RIC for the Branch ride today. Great, conditions are just perfect for a ride and I’ve been looking forward to this all week. Phone rings; it’s Maurice Bain recently shifted from Marlborough to Motueka. - “I read in the newsletter that you guys have a ride over here today for lunch, mind if I meet you in Nelson and ride out to Mot with you?” “Sure Maurice, be good to see you—always room for one more on the ride, we’ll regroup outside Tahunanui Bowling Green, see you there!” 10 bikes, 11 people, including one prospective member, waiting at the carpark when I arrived, more rolled in after I did so we were a good sized group to head out of town at 10am sharp. Picked up the Barrett’s and the Brasch’s at Wairau river bridge. Foggy and chilly just before Havelock then back out into the warm sun just in time for a quick stop at Rai Valley. The road over the hills was mostly in good condition, a few road works were very clearly sign posted so no worries there. Several corners still damp with morning dew keep us alert. Had a great scratch down the Nelson side of the Whangamoa’s then on to our regroup stop at Tahuna (met up with Maurice ) before heading on to Motueka and the Elevation Café for lunch. Peter B left us on the way to head into Mapua. The café was busy and we numbered 18 or more by now, but they managed to get the food out promptly. Good food it was too and great to sit around in the sun to eat and catch up with everyone. Maurice now riding a shiny 1050 Triumph, seems to be enjoying his new home. The ride home took us up the Motueka River road then through to Top House and down to the Wairau Valley Pub for a final catch-up before heading our separate ways home. I had pulled over to talk to a rider stopped at Top House corner so most of our guys were ready to leave by the time I pulled in at Wairau Valley. Unfortunately here, Bryce A. had discovered a stone had gone through his radiator and the fluid was running out as fast as he could put it in. He arranged to leave the bike at the Pub till he could pick it up later with a trailer. Jeff A & I gave him and Denise a ride home. I hope he gets it sorted OK. Thanks for your help Jeff. Comments from todays riders;- “It’s really good to have that last regroup and catch-up (in this case, Wairau Valley Pub) before everyone heads home” and; “what made the ride more interesting today was to go round the block in a different direction (often we head up the valley first) - it almost felt like a whole different ride.” I’m fairly busy most weekends so I don’t get out on many rides these days. Today was a great ride, the weather was still warm in the sun but there was a slight chill in the air in places that are shady—reminding us that winter is coming. Thanks to everyone who turned out to enjoy the day, great to have the support and the time to catch up over lunch. John Laing #5083
SUNDAY RIDE
10
11
12
Tuesday, 5 May 2015
14 Bikes assembled at the Brayshaw Park carpark to embark on today’s short hop up to the Alzheimer’s Centre in Wither Road.
Bums on seats included Murray Brooks, Tom Brown, Brian & Louise Pearce, Ray Beard, Noel Duff, Terry Maloney, Lindsay Learmonth, Dutch, Kelvin Watson, Evan Teale, Tania Coley, John Hadfield & Heather, and me.
Upon arrival at the Centre we were warmly greeted by both staff and patients alike. Today was an all-women affair as far as patients were concerned and it didn’t take too long for some of our guys to start flirting with the patients who obviously were lapping up the attention being showered upon them. It was quite amusing to watch their reactions when offered a ride as a pillion passenger. You could see their eyes light up at the thought and for a brief moment the “if only” look flitted across some of their faces.
On a more sobering experience I happened to recognise one of the patients who, along with her husband had been clients of mine right up until I retired. They originally resided in Ohingaiti, a small country hamlet just north of Hunterville but relocated to Blenheim over 20 years ago. It was sad to see a person I had known for so long in such a state and for a moment or two I had a little think about how lucky I was to still have good health and to make the most of it while I have the ability to do so.
Quite a few of the patients and staff had a good look at the bikes with Brian’s Spyder drawing the most attention. After a short time outside we all adjourned inside with various doors locking behind us as we went through. Needless to say there was a bit of banter amongst our group as to who was & who wasn’t going to be let out.
Once inside we were conducted into a large lounge and seated in pairs alongside the patients before being formally welcomed by Jo, the day care manager of the Centre. Once the formalities were over each pair of Ulyssians were either handed a couple of knitting needles and a ball of wool or a set of needles already with some knitting on them. It was then a case of each couple having to cast the wool onto a needle and do twenty stiches before attempting a second row.
Those pairs lucky enough to have their knitting already started had an armchair ride and simply knitted away happily while quite a few of the rest of us bumbled our way through the casting on process. As far as I was concerned I reckon I had two left hands and was making quite a cockup of it. I could see that my partner Kelvin was just itching to take over so I didn’t hesitate and handed the mess over to him. Kelvin was all concentration and obviously knew what he was doing even though he complained that he didn’t have his glasses with him. As he was doing so well I left him to it and started wandering around to see how the rest of the crew were doing.
Tania & Dutch were doing a sort of Jeckel & Hyde act which at times threated to spill over into a challenge of knitting needles at 20 paces.
Evan Teale’s effort can be best described as a short fluffy thingy.
Ray Beard’s effort resembled something like his beard.
Lindsay Learmonth was perfection personified.
As for Brian Pearce he had been fortunate to have been given a couple of needles with knitting already on them. I reckon by the time he finished the twenty or so rows already knitted had in fact decreased to around 18 rows however Brian hotly disputes that suggestion.
Terry Maloney was going great guns however when his knitting was eventually judged by the patient selected to do the judging process she politely pointed out to Terry that there was a bloody great big hole
VISIT TO THE MARLBOROUGH ALZHEIMERS CENTRE
ABOVE; Newly transferred ex-Canterbury members, John and
Heather Hadfeild entered into the knitting challenge with great
enthusiasm. Welcome to Marlborough folks!
13
where a hole shouldn’t be. Quick as a flash Terry retorted that the hole was intentional – it was in fact a button hole! Full marks Terry for your response. My only question is that you told everybody you were knitting a sock so why does a sock need a button hole?
I reckon the pairing of Louise Pearce & Tom Brown took the cake however. Tom got into the knitting process with great gusto; so much so that he suggested it was hard work & he was breaking into a sweat. I won’t even try to describe what they were knitting but I was told that it was eventually going to become a “willie warmer”. All I can say is that the phrases “casting on” & “casting off” would in their particular effort be more aptly described as “castrating on” & “castrating off”!
From what I saw going on around the room everyone, patients, staff & Ulyssians alike were all totally engrossed & having a ball.
All too soon the fun & games ended and we were thanked for making the effort to come to the Centre to meet & mix with the patients. We were then invited into the dining area where we were provided with a cup of tea or coffee and a slice of chocolate cake to die for. I was informed that one of our members managed to consume three slice of cake, greedy bugger. I won’t name and shame, suffice to say he has an English accent and sports a rather shaggy white beard which is now slightly streaked with chocolate!
As transport had arrived to take patients back home we made a fairly rapid exit from the building to shift our bikes so the mini busses could load at the front door. On our way out Ray Beard took a wrong turn and started to head deeper inside the building. Much to the rest of our mob’s disappointment someone warned Ray that if he continued where he was heading, he would wind up as a Client. Ray sort of coughed & spluttered and almost sprinted outside.
I believe this visit had a humbling effect on all of us and was a pleasure to provide some form of social intercourse with people less fortunate than ourselves. Well done Murray for organising the Club’s second visit to the Alzheimer’s Centre.
Bob #8033
Seen by Murray B at East Coast Inn, 7 May
LEFT; East Coast Inn,
new tea for guests, I’m
told was beautiful.
RIGHT; This tea is grown
in New Zealand.
Retreads ‘Knitters’ full of determination and concentration. How’s that new seat cover coming on Bob?
14
RETREADS REPORT
Thursday 7th
May 2015 – East Coast Inn
After a couple of iffy days weather wise it seems quite a few bods were stir crazy to get on their bikes again. The Brayshaw car park was pretty full, admittedly there was a school party in the area hence a lot of cars, but there were a hellava lot of bikes there as well.
Today our mob consisted of Lindsay Learmonth, Grant Johnston, Peter Unger, Terry Maloney, Lou Jowers, Peter Beckett & Marie, Ray Beard, Tom Brown, Dutch, Derek Stripling, Peter Nelson, Evan Teale, John King, Murray Brooks, Les Sircombe, Tania Coley, Graham Check, Alan Graham, Stuart Paul, Kelvin Watson & me. Louise & Brian Pearce also turned up but opted not to head in the direction we were going as they were a little worried about the wind. Apparently it was blowing a gale out at Renwick when they left home so decided they would head to Picton instead.
Murray informed us that we were heading to the East Coast Inn at Ward and he had phoned the Inn to warn them they would have at least 20 or so bods descend upon them for lunch. He also reminded us that in view of the large size of our group we should maintain a safe distance between one another and not ride directly behind the bike in front of us. He also reminded us that with such a large group we stretch out along the road quite a distance & we should let any quick cars, etc. pass rather than let them build up & get agitated in the process. We then mounted up & I acted as tail end Charlie. I was rather surprised to see Peter Beckett as the last cab off the rank so I wandered over to see all was well. He informed me that he was not used to having a pillion passenger on the back of his bike & said he would ride through without stopping at the catch up point at Riverlands. After a bit of a hesitant take-off he seemed to be ok & I didn’t see him or Marie again until we got to Ward.
Les Sircombe is a prospective new member & is the proud owner of a new Kawasaki J300 Scooter. It only has 1400kms on the clock & he seems pretty rapt with it. I gather the 1400kms have accumulated over a very short space of time as he was pleading poverty after having just parted with a sizeable chunck of do-ray-me to acquire it. Welcome to our scruffy lot Les, we all hope you enjoy your association with the Club.
I parked my bike alongside Stuart Paul’s bike at the Inn. We were pretty close to Les’ new scooter so wandered over to admire it. Stuart commented that the seat looked pretty comfortable and I confirmed that when Les invited me to sit on it. As Stuart & I wandered back to our bikes the conversation revolved around bike seats & numb bums. Stuart confessed he had a fairly delicate botty, in fact not only did he have his Bike seat re-stuffed with something more suited to his delicateness but also he had the driver’s seat of a few 4 wheeled vehicles also re-stuffed to cater for his somewhat personal problem. A cheaper option Stuart would have been to find a way to toughen up your Bum, says he who is seriously considering an a new cushion for my bike. I would add however that it is for the wife as she starts to squirm on the bike after about an hour or so as a passenger. This cushion will cover the entire bike seat, but that’s purely coincidental!! (Bob’s cushion will be a nice red knitted one! see page 13—Ed)
It was such a good day so we all opted to have lunch outside on the balcony. I ordered a crusty pork belly salad as it sounded pretty awesome & I certainly could not find
anything to complain about – it was delicious. I notice Grant is still sticking religiously to his soup of the day plate. Obviously today’s offering was up to expectations; after consuming it all he just fell short of picking up his plate & licking it as he was busy scraping off every last morsel from his plate with his knife & fork. I actually suggested he lick his plate but he informed me he couldn’t possibly do that in public, if Liz got to hear about it his days as a mortal on this earth would well & truly be over.
Speaking of Grant & Liz, they are off to Spain for a couple of months’ holiday. Among other things Grant is going to attempt a 30 odd kilometre cycle ride in the mountains. Apparently the road climbs about 4000 meters in height. Grant I suggest you consume several bowls of red onion soup just before you start in an effort to obtain some assistance in the form of jet propulsion.
Peter Beckett is also going AWOL for about a couple of months. He is off to the North Island for a couple of weeks & then heading to Europe. We look forward to hearing about both Grant & Peter’s exploits upon their return.
No one seemed to be in a hurry to depart, with everyone deep in conversation, a decent feed in their bellies and pleasant surroundings. Unfortunately the wind started to pick up a bit which stirred most of us into action to head for home.
Just another good old Retreads outing, roll on next week.
Bob #8033
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A couple of visitors at coffee morning today, ex-Marlborough member Maurice Bain came along for a catch up with his old riding mates (he must be missing us). Maurice lives in Motueka now, so has transferred his membership to the Nelson Branch. He was surprised to find out that over there, he has to pay an annual $20 Branch operating fee AND a further $17 if he wants their local branch newsletter posted to him in hardcopy. He wasn’t complaining, but he was somewhat surprised. He is really enjoying his new Triumph motorbike and is looking forward to getting out for a scratch with the Nelson riders. The other visitor was Paul Jones, expat Kiwi and fellow Ulyssian from Mount Lindesay in Brisbane Australia. Paul is the Quartermaster for his Branch and was interested in collecting up some Marlborough regalia—he actually wanted a patch with our Branch logo on it, sadly we don’t have these. He had one from their Branch—an iron-on one. Some of us were greatly interested in this. We’ve asked him to price them up for our Branch with their Aussie contact. He left us a heap of badges and patches from his Branch—we passed them on to our Branch Secretary, Jeff.
Paul grew up in Picton, attended Queen Charlotte College and still knows quite a few people here. This trip home was to celebrate his Dads 80th birthday. Now Paul lives at Mount Lindesay, loves it (he’s a Postie so gets to ride a bike every day) and is an enthusiastic and dedicated Ulyssian (heaps of stories to tell!). His Branch had recently enjoyed a 6000k round trip from Brizzy to Tasmania, and before that, they had done a USA trip on Route 66. Everywhere they go, the Branch mascot (see ‘Lindsay’ on the right) travels with them. Before we headed home, Paul asked us to pass on this message to our members, anyone wanting to do an Aussie ride should get in touch with him via his Ulysses Branch web-site, (www.mt lindesay ulysses branch) he has bikes available for Ulyssians to use, the insurance is already organised and everything !! What a generous offer, but as he said, isn’t that what Ulysses is all about? Yes Paul, it is. One idea gleened from Paul, their Branch does a Pot Luck meal every month and all
members are encouraged to take a turn at hosting it. This creates a very social and inclusive side to their calendar and encourages all members to be involved. Would that work here I wonder. What do you think? Anyhoo, Paul’s a hellava nice chap, really good to meet him, Thanks for stopping by mate. Jane Laing #5083
COFFEE MORNING, 9 May 2015
Only two members and one prospective member turned out for Colin’s Saturday ride this month. No report
received but John nipped down to the Argosy before they headed off to get these pic’s. It was an awesome
morning for the event and it looked/sounded like they were all set to have a great days riding.
Nice one Colin, hope it went well.
Cruising with Colin, Sat 9 May 2015
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17 of us out for dinner at the Woody, a nice sized group. Tall stories, a couple of drinks, a load of laughs and huge meals
were the order of the night. I had the devil of a job to get Mac T to smile for the camera - but with Dave Gills help,
eventually we got one—Thanks Mac (and Dave). We’re blaming the medication aren’t we Mac. Mac has a new
computer, he’s very pleased with it—smaller than a lap top but bigger than one of those other tiny things, so he told me.
Murray Brooks was overheard to explain why he doesn’t like to ride in the rain these days, he reckons his bike is small
enough already, can’t run the risk of it shrinking further! Peter Unger was eager to tell me about his domestic goddess
status around the house, - apparently he’s a real whizz on the BBQ and his skills at grinding coffee beans & putting out
the plates on the table are second to none! - on yer Peter, we’ve all got to be good at something (noted Liz just seemed
to roll her eyes). Pam Neal put in her apologies to John for not heading off to the Brass Monkey Rally this year.
She has a pretty good reason, she’s off to the Isle of Man!! Nice one Pam. Ian Wilson regaled tales of a trip south and
fishing in the canals at Tekapo, massive Trout, or was that Salmon? Anyway, it was the trip of all seasons from 24 deg’s
one day to 2 deg the next—so cold he had to wrap himself up like Mr Blobby—check his Mr Blobby impression in the
photo below. Seemingly the fish he caught were only small by comparison to others because it was so cold his fingers
wouldn’t work properly. What were you doing Ian - Tickling the fish?? Space doesn’t allow for more, the pics speak for
themselves. It was a very enjoyable evening, not a late night for the middle of the week and I didn’t have to cook!!
Awesome, Thanks to Kelvin for organising it. Jane Laing #5083
Saturday Morning Coffee with Ulysses at the Vines Village on Rapaura Road
from 10 am.
The Village Cafe is open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch and
great coffee.
10% Discount for Ulyssian’s
Phone 572 7170 for group bookings, Birthdays or visiting guests!
The
OLD ORCHARD
Cafe
Mid-month social evening 13 May ( at the Woody )
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14th May 2015 – Cosy Corner Café, Seddon.
Moped around the house this morning trying to make up my mind, will I or won’t I. The weather report was crap but actuality was a tad different. No wind, quite a bit of blue sky & the sun making its presence felt periodically on the one hand and dark foreboding clouds over the Richmond Range on the other. After a fairly heated debate with myself I decided I should simply man up & go and to hell with what Huey may unceremoniously dump upon me if he so desires.
My first mistake of the day was for once in my life turning up at the meeting place a good ten minutes before departure time. As I pulled into the car park at Brayshaw Park I was greeted as if I was somebody from Mars. Quite a few started looking at their watches to see that father time had not slipped passed them unnoticed and that there was in fact 10 minutes still to go before departure. I was then grilled by some as to whether or not I was ailing for something or the missus had got sick of me & thrown me out. How charming can your supposed friends be!
These so called charming friends included Ray Beard, Derek Stripling, Graham Check, Peter Nelson, Lindsay Learmonth, Jeff Champion, Lou Jowers, Bill Harrison & Murray Brooks. Today’s ride was intended to be a picnic ride however the weather forecast put paid to that idea and so after a brief discussion it was decided South was more promising weather wise & we probably shouldn’t go too far. The general consensus was Seddon & after a brief discussion the Cosy Corner Café was chosen. Murray gave them a quick call to pre-warn them & then it was time to hit the road.
The ride out was uneventful although it could have been a bit expensive just before Seddon. A Stock Truck & Trailer unit pulled out in front of some of us from the Redwood Pass/Moleswoth intersection and proceeded to slowly build up speed along the flat towards the bridge before Seddon. It gathered up some speed as it proceeded down the hill & Graham Check was the first cab off the rank to pass it. I was next in line & opened up the throttle. I got about half way alongside the Truck when I spotted a suspicious looking grey car parked off our side of the road at the other end of the bridge. I quickly eased back on the throttle but as I was committed I continued with the passing manoeuvre albeit at a speed reduced to a level slightly quicker than the truck. My instinct was correct, it was the local constabulary & I prayed that he hadn’t picked me up as I started passing as I would have been a gone-burger. And so it was with a bit of trepidation that I pulled into the Café car park half expecting the long arm of the law to nobble me. And sure enough as I was taking my gloves off along he came, it was enough to make me clench my butt cheeks for a fleeting instant but fortunately he had the good grace to carry on South on the prowl for some other poor unsuspecting soul.
And so with that little episode behind me lunch was certainly going to be a far more enjoyable experience than it might otherwise have been. Well that was true until a Truckie came in to buy some lunch and Murray, being the perfect gentleman he is, kindly stepped back & invited the Truckie to queue jump as he was probably on a fairly tight schedule. I have no qualms with that. What really got up my nose was the fact that I had been eying up the food on offer and finally decided upon a Panini which included among other things, sweet Chilli sauce. There were several other different fillings on offer however that was what I was going to have come hell or high water. I didn’t think too much about it when I stood back to let the Truckie in, and wasn’t worried when he reached across and grabbed the Panini I had set my sights on. Not a problem, there would be an identical one behind it. When it was eventually my turn to select my Panini there was no sign of any with sweet Chilli sauce anywhere. The bloody Truckie had nobbled the only one that appealed to me. So much for chivalry, from now on its first in first served as far as I am concerned.
It was so mild and still no sign of rain so we all sat outside to eat our meals. The waitress reminded me of those at Pelorus Bridge, a great sense of humour & she gave as good as she got. The fodder was pretty dammed good as well despite not getting what I really wanted. During the course of eating our meals Murray floated the idea of heading out to Yealands Winery after lunch and possibly cruise through it provided it wasn’t affected by the weather. Sounded like a plan until a loud clap of thunder from somewhere over Blenheim interrupted proceedings so that idea was canned. Instead we did a brief walk up to the War Memorial on the hill as you head out south from Seddon. It was a very brief hike but well worth it. The memorial itself is magnificent, and the views looking out over Seddon and towards the Awatere Valley were spectacular despite the ominous clouds gathering. I did a quick tally of the number of names on the memorial and came up with 35. Not many you might say but 35 lives lost in the First World War from a small settlement like Seddon would have had a significant impact on the area. Another good reason to remind us of the futility of war and the price a nation pays for the sake of freedom and security.
After the customary group photo at the Memorial it was a short walk back to the Café and our bikes to get ready to head for home. As we were donning our gear the rain started and so it was a wet trip home. The discomfort of the ride home was more than offset by a most enjoyable and pleasant ride out, great company, good fodder and an interesting little side excursion.
Bob #8033
RETREADS REPORT
18
19
Sunday Rides; Unless otherwise stated, all Sunday rides leave from
south end of the Blenheim Railway Station car park.—check the rides
calendar.
Mid Week Rides-Thursday’s-depart Brayshaw Park, 11am.
Come on your bike or in your car, it doesn’t matter, just as long as you
come along and join in.
If you have an idea for a ride, get in touch with the Rides Coordinator.
Looking on down the road...
MARLBOROUGH
RIDES AND EVENTS
CALENDAR
DATE DAY TIME DETAILS RIC Every week Thursdays 11am Retreads Ride every Thursday. Meet at Brayshaw Park.
Everyone welcome
Murray Brooks
24 May Sunday 11am Okiwi Bay or Marfells Beach for picnic lunch (Weather
dependant, decide on the day)
Kelvin Watson
31 May Sunday 1pm Decide on the day for those not going to the Brass
Monkey
Jeff Champion
4th June Thursday 7pm Committee meeting—Red Cross rooms on Redwood
Street, all members welcome
Kevin Bright
7 June Sunday 1pm Decide on the day.
10 June Wednesday 6.30pm Social evening, Vines Restaurant, Redwood Tavern.
Dinner and a speaker. Please notify RIC if you’re coming,
Ph; 5776822
Kelvin Watson
13/14 June Weekend 10am Branch overnighter to Mt Lyford Resort. Further details,
see notice on page 11.
Kevin Bright
14 June Sunday 1pm Decide on the day for those not going to Mt Lyford
21 June Sunday 1pm Decide on the day
29 June Sunday 10.30am Kaikoura (Donegal House)
Further on down the road... 30/31 May 2015; 35th Brass Monkey Rally, Oturehura.
18 July; Branch Mid-Year dinner, Woodbourne Tavern. Tickets available from Nicky Bright. Further info see notice on page 10.
1st Aug; (Saturday) South Island Ulysses Remembrance Service. Hot Springs Motor Lodge, Hanmer Springs. Ph; 0800 315000
to book accommodation and meals. Further info, see notice on page 10.
31 Oct—2 Nov; Marlborough Anniversary Weekend -Branch double overnighter to Pohara Beach. Book your own accommodation at Pohara Beach TOP 10 Holiday Park. Phone; 0800 746 272. Email; [email protected] 21-23 Nov; Magpie Madness Rally, www.ttag.org.nz 26—29 Nov; Burt Monro challenge, Invercargill 12 Dec. - Saturday—Yes folks, second Saturday in December always means it’s the Marlborough Branch Annual Toy Run. 26—28 Feb 2016; Marlborough Branch Kaituna Ridges ‘Back to Basics’ Rally
18—20 March 2016; National AGM. Solid Energy Centre, Westport. Book some accommodation
now!
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Please NOTE that the CLOSE OFF date for contributions to this newsletter is 20th of the month.
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COFFEE MORNING, ANZAC DAY