The Southern Ride taking in the Albany Hill Climb event was a huge success. It was very well organised and coordinated by AVCMC and the Albany rifle Club where we camped. The weather was good mostly except for the Friday coming into Manjimup and Tuesday morning heading home from Pemberton. The trip down was through interesting countryside with an overnight stay at the Broomehill Pub which is very hospitable. Next morning we had a spectacular ride through the Porongorups to Albany where we camped overnight. Alex, Charlie, Deb and Jason joined us.

The Saturday saw a show and shine all morning in a street overlooking the harbour. Many classic bikes were on display and it was great to meet up with Glen Oliver and see his Scout. Saturday afternoon has a Poker Run out to Narracup through rolling green countryside. All very pleasant. Back at camp the rifle range was firing their big bore guns that afternoon. Earlier we had the special favour of seeing and handling Doug the caretaker’s superb collection of circa American Civil Was weaponry and memorabilia. Rod was beside himself with what was on display. A very pleasant evening of pre dinner drinks was enjoyed sipping from whatever cup, container or bottle came to hand. On Saturday night there was a huge dinner in the hall of the rifle club with plenty to wash it down with.

The Sunday was the Hill Climb event. An early morning rise saw us tonk over to MT Clarence. Wayne and Charlie needed to participate in the practice runs to get an average time. Again, there were very many classic bikes in the pits. The actual event is exceptionally well organised with safety a priority. Wayne and Charlie’s Indians certainly attracted a great deal of attention and admiration from enthusiasts who seemed to bypass the gleam and head for the patina. Wayne and Charlie had huge grins all day as their machines performed really well after a few gremlins were sorted out. As spectators we others enjoyed the sights and sounds of so many machines and riders trying their luck at maintaining a consistent speed. The day concluded with more evening drinks at the Rifle Club.

On the Monday Wayne, Rod and Glen headed west to Denmark for breakfast. Others had earlier departed for Perth. The countryside was superb. Along the way they stopped off at the Tree Top and forest walk which is very interesting. Rod’s bike had a mystery electrical breakdown and was trailered. Very disappointing for Rod. On through Northcliffe to an overnight stay at the Pemberton Motel. Rod and Glen reacquainted themselves with that classic 70’s dish Beef Wellington accompanied by excellent local reds. 

For a first time at this event we had a good representation from the club and thanks go to Alex, Jason and Deb, Charlie, Rod , Wayne and Glen for attending.

We should make the Albany Vintage Hill-climb an annual club event.

Send your thoughts to the Club Secretary