March Canterbury Earthquake Citation (Dress Distinction) Mike. Ulyssian #8624

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1 March 2013 The award is called "2011 Canterbury Earthquake Citation (Dress Distinction)" Eligibility: All employees of NZ Fire Service and NZ Search and Rescue teams who were deployed in Christchurch between 22 February and 20 March 2011" Mike was one of three USAR medics on the ground in the first 24 hours. In fact, he was on holiday and he managed to get into the city within an hour of the quake, (after he assisted the local Doctors to set up a triage centre in Brighton). He got out of New Brighton on his motorbike, over Bridge Street Bridge, via a plank of wood. He rode down Dyers Road through the flooding with water over his pegs. His bike proved to be a valuable asset in the commute to and from the city over the next 6 weeks. While Mike feels that he is one of many people that acted above and beyond the call of duty, he is a hero Canterbury Earthquake Citation (Dress Distinction) Mike. Ulyssian #8624

2 Note: Opinions expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Editor, or the Canterbury Branch of Ulysses Club of New Zealand, or, or the Ulysses Club of New Zealand Committee Contact Details Position/Person Phone Mobile Coordinator/ Branch Liaison Robert Edgeler Secretary: Bob Tanner Treasurer: Chris Groube Welfare Newsletter Editor: Carolyn Falkenberg Assistant Welfare Officer Marilyn Molloy Website: Robert Edgeler Rallies Coordinator Shelley Trezise Social Convenor: Brian Schlaadt Mentoring Coordinator David Moore Non Committee Rides Coordinator: Peter Carrington Sheriff Deputy Sheriff Wendy Moss Archives/Property: Terry Stevenson Quartermaster (Gear Sales) 2

3 Greetings and welcome to the March Ulysses Canterbury Branch March Newsletter. Our Branch AGM has come and gone, a great evening and it ran without a hitch. Thank you all for turning up. Congratulations to both Marilyn & Shelley for coming onto the Canterbury Branch Committee for the coming year, I am looking forward to working with the committee this year as we have a few things planned so it will be a busy time. At our Brach AGM 11 new members were signed up. A busy night for Bob and I. To all the new members I say welcome and please look out for your membership pack over the next two weeks or so. If you have any questions please call me or Bob. Growing Old Disgracefully book that has been put together by the Club and will be launched at the Club AGM in Rotorua this month, I have ordered 20 books to be sent to the Branch so if you require a copy please send Bob Tanner an bobt2877@gmail.com requesting your name to put on one, Bob will keep us posted as to when you can pick yours up. Cost is $ We have a couple of vacancies in the Branch, a Quarter Master and as Karl has stepped down as Sheriff we now need a new Sheriff. So if you feel as if this would suit your personality for having a bit of fun then please contact me regarding what s involved in either of these two positions. I am looking forward to the AGM in Rotorua this coming weekend I am sure it will be a lot of fun. Maree and I get back on the 20 th March and as this is the evening of our March Social meeting I will be showing photos from the AGM, a member is going to set up a large screen and will bring along a data projector, so we won t be sitting around a 23 TV. I am Looking forward to sharing some of the photos of what happened while we were away at the AGM. Please support the St John BBQ at Avon City Suzuki on Saturday morning, just two more weekends left for you to support this, remembering that all money goes to St John. See you at the Social meeting on the 20 th of March until then be safe out there and most of all enjoy your experience when riding. Regards Robert Edgeler Ulyssian #6969 Ulysses Canterbury Coordinator. Canterbury@ulysses.org.nz 3

4 Rallies Coordinator Hi all, for those whom don t know me my name is Shelley Trezise (Dyna Girl) or a whole lot of other names I probably can t put here haha I currently ride a 2006 Harley Wide Glide and have been a Canterbury Ulysses member for just over a year. I have been riding motorcycles for 22 years, starting on an Iron Head Harley Sportster at age 19, not many ladies rode bikes back then. It is fantastic to see that changing now with so many ladies riding! It is great to see the boost in membership for the Canterbury Ulysses over the last year, there are some great rides and events throughout the year, don t be shy to be mentored or go on a rider training program, it is always good to refresh or up skill. I had some mentoring last year and thoroughly enjoyed the experience as well as learned a couple of things, these guys know there stuff! I have taken on a new role for Ulysses, Rally Organizer. This has come off the back of comments from members saying we are getting disjointed at rallys and the social aspect is dwindling, most other clubs camp together and fly their flags, gazebos etc and socialize together. So my role is to try and get us together, have our flags flying, possibly a gazebo up (if anyone going by car or has room to carry it) socialize and have a good time within one area, this will also be a area where other bike clubs, members from other Ulysses areas and potential members can meet us, socialize with us and find out all about our branch and what we are all about. I need to know your favorite rallys and camping spots within them, and welcome any suggestions and help to get this up and running, Enjoy the fine weather we have been having and most of all have fun riding!!! Shelley (Dyna Girl) shelley.t@vodafone.co.nz Well hi one and all, its Phil Benton here aka The Chicken Man. We woke on Sunday to discover grey cloud in the sky but this didn't detract from 1 young lady and 8 gents meeting at Z Curletts for the ride to Methven however the Timaru Club that we were going to meet there had decided not to go as it was raining down south. So time for a change of plan and decided to head to the Ashley Gorge. We met up to regroup at the Waimak Bridge before before going on to Oxford for those who need to buy some lunch, then we sped of on our merry way to the Ashley Gorge too enjoy a nibble and a natter. When we got there we discovered that we had lost the tail end Charlie and the rider in front of him, a young gentleman on a Harley, a search party went out to no avail and we never did see them again, hope they were ok and only lost their way. After lunch we then went onto Cust for a coffee before heading off home. I trust a good day was had by all didn't really get any rain which was good. Well bye for now Phil the Chicken Man. 4

5 Ride Report Ashley Gorge 10 February 2013 On Sunday the 10 February I joined approx. 20 members of the Branch for a ride to the Ashley Gorge for lunch. After a very good riders briefing from Robert (our Branch leader) we were informed that we were to be taken on a leisurely ride. Early into the journey I thought Robert had lost his way as we travelled around the outskirts of Rangiora seemingly looking for the correct road to travel down. We rode through some of the newer parts of Rangiora and it was very interesting to see how the town has expanded over the last year or so. Finally we were back on known roads and continued to travel at 90Km all the way to our lunch stop. On arriving at our lunch stop Robert was asked by just about everyone there if he was having problems reading his speedo, as he had told us all at the riders briefing that he would be travelling at 105km. He explained that he couldn t go any faster, as the rider behind him couldn t keep up (Steve - ex Yamaha rider). The good thing about travelling at this speed, it gives you time to look around and to smell the flowers and I enjoyed that. There was a prospective member on the ride with his good mate (a dog) all strapped in to a box on the back of his Harley. This drew the crowds at our lunch stop. A good break for lunch with enough time allowed for a chat and to get to know the newer members. From there it was to Darfield for a coffee stop. It was at this point that I left the group and headed home to do some gardening. I ll like to thank Ray for lending me his Honda ST while the Blue Lady (Goldwing) is still in the workshop. Mike #

6 Ride to Ashley Gorge on February 10 6

7 Tact" A man and a woman were having a quiet, romantic dinner in a fine restaurant. They were gazing lovingly at each other and holding hands. The waitress, taking another order at a table a few steps away, suddenly noticed the man slowly sliding down his chair and under the table, but the woman acted unconcerned. The waitress watched as the man slid all the way down his chair and out of sight under the table. Still, the woman appeared calm and unruffled, apparently unaware her dining companion had disappeared. The waitress, thinking this was a bit risqué behaviour that might offend other diners, went over to the table and tactfully, began by saying to the woman, "Pardon me, ma'am, but I think your husband just slid under the table." The woman calmly looked up at her and said, "No, he didn't. He just walked in the door." Yesterday Saturday March 2 nd was the inaugural L ride. Five ladies met at Steve's slow skills. (four of us did some practice before we went out). Mike Smith came to show us some country around Rangiora. (He works in the area). Jim joined us on the way out of town. After a nice ride around the back of Rangiora we went to our first stop, Cust, where there is a nice cafe and interesting shop to browse. After some food, coffee and loads of funny stories we continued over View hill, out to Ashley Gorge and back through to Rangiora. Then we carried on to Woodend and up the highway to Pegasus. The cafe there is also nice. More coffee and stories then we set off for home. Voted a nice relaxing ride by the participants. Another ride is planned the date to be advised. We are hoping to make this a regular thing. Cheers Carol Smith #8699 Happy Birthday to our March Members! Mike Read Bevan Weir Meredith Lowe Bob Tanner Allan Richards Bill Newton Trevor Johns Robin Bull Euan Cameron Brian Schlaadt Richard Crawley John Wilson Graeme Hutchinson Pam Orpwood Brian Ford Paul Millican Rosemarie Duder Adrian Melief 7

8 Changes to the Cost of the Mailed Newsletters At a recent Branch Committee meeting it was noted that the cost of printing and posting newsletters was no longer keeping pace. Consequently a decision was made to increase the annual charge for receiving your newsletters by snail mail (post). To this end, if you wish to continue receiving your newsletter via the post, it will now cost $18.50 per year, starting with this issue. It is still free to receive via . Should we not receive your payment by the time the April edition is due for publication we will assume that you no longer wish to receive it and will delete your name from our mailing list for the newsletter. If you wish to make the payment via internet banking the bank details are as follows: Bank Account (if your bank only requires two digits in the last group, please only use 00). Please also use your membership number for reference so we know who has paid. Thanks Carolyn Falkenberg Newsletter Editor At the recent motorbike maintenance course run by Karl Sommers 8

9 MOTORCYCLE PREVENTATIVE MAINTENANCE For those who visit the Ulysses Canterbury web site on a regular basis would have seen photos of the Motorcycle Preventative Maintenance session Karl organized and ran for branch members. For the 12 members who attended this inaugural event the weather turned out to be perfect. The day covered topics such as: Pre motorcycle ride checks Pre checks before washing your motorcycle and why (faults were found with some members motorcycle) Cleaning motorcycles Puncture repairs Suggestion on how to balance load your motorcycle Some riding safety tips Excellent general motorcycle discussion. Even this old dog learned a few tricks which I don t wish to share as you should have been there or it could just be I am a little embarrassed that after all these years riding motorcycles I learned something I should have been aware of long ago. Karl also shared with us a trade secret which he calls Good Shit. Having demonstrated how Good Shit works Karl also told us where to obtain this fantastic stuff. I have purchased some Good Shit myself and found it works as well as demonstrated by Karl on the day and found it to be very economical. If you want know what Good Shit is then you will need to attend the a session Karl will run this year as all those who attended have been sworn to silence. Catch ya later: Brian Schlaadt

10 SOCIAL EVENT ORGANIZERS REPORT FOR MARCH 2013 LADIES COFFEE MORNING The monthly ladies coffee morning is on the last Saturday of each month and for March this will be the 30 th. Meet at Annie's café Tower Junction 10am onwards. Just turn up as no booking required EVENTS So what Off the bike social events are planned for 2013? Well that s going to be up to you. While it is understood that we are predominately Ulysses members as we have an interest in motorcycles and want to mostly ride them, we should be able socialise elsewhere in what I call off the bike. What do you want to see and what events will you support? If you have an idea then let a committee member or myself hear about it. At this stage I have the following events pencilled in for 2013 and yet to be approved by the committee. Ten Pin Bowling. Ulysses only Bears v Jappas. Motorcycle maintenance, Karl looking to run 3 or 4 a year if there interest. Ten Pin Bowling with a Christchurch Motorcycle club. Mid Winter Party at Twiggers Movie 2013 TT Saturday out for a meal The Ladies Coffee Mornings The end of year BBQ Pretty much a repeat of 2012 so we need some other fresh ideas to add. Club members and family picnic? Ride or drive there. BBQ? Your place? Museum or vehicle collection visit? Go Kart racing? Darts, Pool, and In Door Bowls? Social meeting at your local? Watch a rugby game at your local or your place (limit numbers) Charter a boat at Lyttelton for fishing. How about sending me an or talking to me at a monthly meeting if any of the above you would like to support and if there is a bit of interest I will make it happen. Catch ya later. Brian Schlaadt #

11 Knitting Group News February 2013 Wed 6 th Feb. Way back in 2003 a good mate of mine in the UK ed and said he was coming over here in January 2004 to spend 3 weeks just riding around New Zealand. Don t come in January says I, Come in February the weather s far more settled then, and the school holidays are over! Well he did, and we had the wettest most miserable February I ve ever known, but it didn t put him off he s been three more times since then. Now to the point! It s a real shame he couldn t get here this year because it s been a beaut and continues to be so. Consequently no problem getting the old people out as well as a whole bunch of young buggers who, on account of it being Waitangi Day, were neglecting their duty by taking a day off work and putting extra strain on our already fragile economy. Nothing I could do about that though and all agreed that a ride up to Cheviot and lunch in the Domain would be just the thing, and it was. As you would expect, not everyone had their lunch with them, so a stop in Cheviot was compulsory especially as most didn t know where the Domain was and presumably would be still searching as I type. Steve Smith was obviously feeling super energetic and bought a Frisbee with him and even managed to entice one or two of the younger participants out onto the cricket pitch for a wee game. Gotta hand it to Terry though, poor bugger still thinks he s young, as he was out there with the best of them for a full 31/2 minutes until the silly old sod collapsed and was dragged back into the shade. However, he s been told that by the end of a six week course of Viagra he ll eventually be able to straighten his left leg. Heading home was never going to be an issue, after all we were that far north why not go a little further up SH1 until we reach The Leader and that magic road down into Waiau, and it was every bit as good as expected. Wee catch up in Waiau then on through to Culverden for a compulsory pot of English Breakfast before yet another orgasmic blat through the Weka Gorge. One way or another a fairly perfect days ride and great to see newer members Tony Matheson with wife Pat and Egil Andreassen on his first ever ride with this motley bunch. Not sure when Waitangi Day next falls on a Wednesday but I would imagine by then Ross Bathurst, Karen Revell, Steve Smith, Chris Binnema, Geoff Hawke, Pete & Kathy, Brian & Raelene, Mike & Carol, John Walker & Robert will be old enough to be officially classed as bewildered and become features of the midweek group. Wed 13 th Feb. Well that s it for me, I m now officially one of natures sceptics when it comes to relying on weather forecasters, from now on I ll stick my head out of the window and make up my own mind. We d had about 9 Wednesdays in a row with fine weather and the TV News that morning said it was going to rain and it was Golf Day. Consequently called off the golf, which Allen had gone to such great lengths to organise for us at Mayfield, and then the sun shone all bloody day. Only winners today was bb s café at Homebase and even they didn t do very well as only 3 of us turned up. Wed 20 th Feb. Back to sunshine again, but hell where was everyone? The forecourt at Z Curletts was a bit like our street, shambolic, as they seemed to be removing old tanks and replacing them, but where was everyone hiding. Then I spotted Bevan s Victory parked next to a rubbish skip and a quick whizz around the back of the shop revealed about a dozen ancients sheltering from the blazing sun. Brilliant, so where shall we go guys? Then up jumps Frank, Can I choose, please, please, please, so how can you resist that? Just off the main highway, heading to Little River is the Kaituna Domain and if you didn t know about it specifically it d be easy to roll right on by, but of course that s why we bring Frank. Perfect destination actually, especially as this was the day of the Branch AGM and at least some of us needed to be back early enough to prepare for the occasion. The Domain was perfect, secluded and sunny and I started to wonder how many of these local old buggers had driven their Morris 8 or Austin 7 down here with a girlfriend on a balmy summer evening, purely to observe and count the luminous ducks, of course. Lunch in the sunshine was, as expected, very pleasant although some of the more adventurous of us did venture off for a long hike in the bush, took us 6 minutes but that s only because we re so fit and healthy. 11

12 Coffee after that was a no brainer with the Blue Duck café just down the road, prior to a brilliant but short ride home. Magic day actually and even the AGM didn t go on for ever, or did I actually sleep through it? Wed 27 th Feb. And still the sun was shining, and still the forecourt at Z Curletts was in upheaval and still the faithful gathered. However, this time we were in for a surprise as, Chaz had decided to bring the car and on the way collect our old mate Pete, from the confines of Princess Margaret, on the promise that he s have him back by 1.00 pm. Hence another shortish ride which suited some of us as the FishnChip event was also on that evening. There s a little rest area on the road to Little River near Kaituna says Chaz But not the one you went to last week. I know it says Bevan So I ll lead the way!. Famous last words, of course from Bevan, as he tried to force his way into someone s country estate which was surrounded by a high brick wall and iron gates with about 10 padlocks. Nothing for it in that case just keep heading east until we find another likely looking spot, which turned out to be the correct place less than 5ks from the country estate. Good to get the chance to have a wee chat with Pete and soon realised that he hasn t lost his sense of humour, in fact just as grumpy as he always was. Didn t linger after lunch on account of the evening events so most of us headed back to Lyttelton to annoy the natives and clog up the footpath outside Coffee Culture, before heading home through the tunnel. FishnChip Ride 27 th Feb. Great turnout, around 21 bods on about 18 bikes all ready for a prompt departure at 6.00 pm, all that is except for Phil Gannon who put on a very presentable headless chook act at 5.59 pm. He did join the pack at the first catch point which was Clarkville School just off of Tram Rd. All plain sailing from there as the traffic started to thin out nicely and I lead the way back onto Tram Rd via the curvy bit on South Eyre Rd, which I don t think anyone even noticed. Out along Tram with time to admire the sewage block on the corner of Bradleys which I, in the course of a hard days work, had freshly mown 2 days before, again no bugger even noticed. A right up Earlys Rd, thus avoiding the ford over the river and another right onto the Cust Oxford Rd before circumnavigating Rangiora. Wee Tiki tour up Marshmans Rd and down into Sefton before rolling into the Railway Tavern in Amberley where we d been told the fish & chips were good. They were too, but with that many of us it took a while for everyone to get served and the tail enders were still arriving at the final venue 45 minutes after the first ones had got there. Still a very pleasant ride and an evening spent with friends of mine, Peter & Carolyn Brookbanks, who own the Apricot Orchard there. Special thanks to those two for chancing their arms with a bunch of Ulysses reprobates and thanks also to Dick for helping me to get the route right and keep all our heads above water, cheers mate! Bob Tanner 2877.KIC. 12

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15 Ladies Morning Tea with a twist As I awoke on Saturday February 23 rd I smiled in the knowledge of the morning to come. After dropping off some things to our dedicated BBque staff I headed to Anna s Café at Tower Junction for our ladies monthly cuppa and chat. It s always nice to be greeted by Marie and her husband and Club President Robert. As more and more ladies arrived we settled into our usual light banter. I took the opportunity to berate Robert for sharing his cold only to learn he actually had to take some days off work (man flu I suspect). Luckily I can say I haven t needed to do the same. Our numbers have now swelled with the arrival of Maureen, Barbara and her husband- Rae, Joanne, Christine, Carol, Carolyn. After having consumed some very yummy food we formulated the direction in which we would move off to our final destination Brenda and Robert s place in sunny Southbridge. At this point Maureen and Carol left us for (a better offer they said). As discussed with Robert I would lead our ride/drive (as some had bikes) via motorway south to Halswell/Shands road. Following Shands to the end and the right towards Springton and left heading to Leeston. The arrangement was clearly to meet at up at Hillyer s in Leeston and follow Robert and Marie out to Brenda s place. Robert and Marie would bring up the tail end group. The journey out was most enjoyable along the new motorway and we arrived safely at our arranged location eagerly awaiting the second group. In the distance we could see the motorbikes of Joanne and Christine heading our way. After parking we learned they had lost Robert and Marie who had taken the wrong turn back at Lincoln Road. We dutifully waited at Leeston (as arranged for almost 20 minutes) before Robert and Marie went past from and entirely opposite direction. After finally collecting us up we moved off to Brenda and Robert s for what was to be a very lovely lunch. 15

16 Thank goodness Robert knew where to go but didn t warn us of the shingle road yet to come and as we turned onto Cryers-jolly road the reality hit. OMG gravel Joanne Christine and motorbikes just don t mix. Well done to the girls for a brave effort and staying upright in these conditions (though this is when keeping a good gap between you and the bike in front really counts eh Christine). As tail end Charlie for this leg I made sure I had plenty of room between me and what was in front but this wasn t necessary in the end WELL DONE. When we were finally stopped we learned that Robert and Marie had taken a shortcut through Coes Ford the back way and had almost arrived at Brenda s before remembering he was to meet and lead us in from Leeston (hence coming from the wrong direction). Brenda and Robert had put on a beautiful lunch and as we settle into the countryside sounds and smells we sat back and wandered why we don t do this more often. After lunch the two Roberts and Ray disappeared out the back for a spot of target practice while we whiled away a bit more food and gossip. Before long Joanne and Christine climbed on their bikes and rode of into the daylight. Carolyn and her granddaughter Abby headed back to town and I settled in for another cuppa and watched Barbara give the boys a lesson in how it was done at the target range. Having enjoyed the afternoon and company I reluctantly headed for Rolleston. Once again I take this opportunity to thank Brenda and Robert for hosting us and look forward to our next outing. CHEERS, Wendy Moss #

17 ULYSSES 25 Year Anniversary South Island Ride Calling all Ulysses members Past and Present from all corners of New Zealand. Saturday the 13th of April We will depart Omarama at 1pm and ride to Twizel. Thereafter at 2pm at the Earth Working Machinery Park. We will plant a tree and unveil a plaque. For the evening, we will retire to the Countrytime Hotel. Available will be a 4 course buffet meal for just $38.00 per person. Bookings are essential through me! John Macdonald or Then the rest of the evening will be a chance to catch up and swap stories with others from all over the South Island and New Zealand. 17

18 25 Year Anniversary Twizel Accommodation base Omarama 20 minutes ride from Twizel Omarama accommodation and rates: Countrytime Hotel Phone Meal & Dance in lounge/restaurant. 4 course buffet $38 Room only $110. Room and breakfast $125 Heritage Gateway Hotel Phone Room only $120. Room and breakfast $135 Sierra Motels. Phone Cathy Studio: 1 person $100. Couple $120 1 bedroom unit ( 2 beds in same room ) 2 guys in same room or a couple $125 2 bedroom unit ( double bed + 2 single beds ) 2 Couples $175 or 3 guys $150 Omarama Holiday Park. Phone Arda Ensuite motel ( 1 bedroom, also studios ) $110. Extra person $25 Standard cabin ( 4 single beds ) 2 people $55. Extra person $20 A Frame cabin ( 2 have double beds, 2 have single beds ) 2 people $55 Campsite $16 per person Ahuriri Motel.. Phone Tom & Rose Studio Unit ( queen bed & ensuite ) $100 1 bedroom unit ( 1 queen & 1 single ) $110 for 2 people, $130 for 3 people 2 bedroom unit. ( Sleeps up to 5 ) $130 for 2 people, $20 for each extra person 18

19 The Ross Overnighter. I hate being late, so when the alarm didn t go off on Saturday morning I only just made it to the Peg as the first riders were pulling out from car park at 9.00am. Together with the panic ride from home to the peg, and missing the briefing from our Bob, it was a bad start (for me), for what was another great Coast overnighter. To top it off it was the first of 3 overnighters to the coast (since I became a ULY), that we had a near 100% dry ride there and back. There were a few drops of rain overnight at Ross and about 20 minutes worth of light showers as we hit the Springfield area. Bloody Perfect and the bike was dry at the end of that. As we hit Darfield and another set of road works, Thea and I stopped to chat with four other Ulys out for the usual Sunday ride. After a long chat we were off again and called in at Thea s house for a coffee before the riding day was complete. Coast rides are special, and this overnighter was no different. Good old Pub filled with good coasters and locals keen to chat and share ale while telling stories and lies. While there was no entertainment on we made the best of the situation and added our own Uly colours to the evening canvas. The booze flowed freely and after a good meal the socialising then began. Some took a stroll around the town before this, and visited the Motor bike Museum. While I didn t make that, I believe there were bikes of many makes and ages lovingly restored and kept for all bike nuts to dribble over. I will certainly put my Speight s aside for 2 minutes on the next Ross Overnighter to see that display. Reports were good and the locals added their stories and knowledge to the history of these great machines. Reminds me of the bloody great steel contraption that proudly sits outside the front of the Hotel. One of the locals started it up for us during the evening and it bloody works. Lovingly reengineered to run on Diesel. Apparently this old piece of engineering excellence was used to pull the cable drive for coal bins in and out of the mines. This was just one of its many uses and capabilities. A crowd of machine addicts duly gathered outside to hear and see it in action. Since there was no music at that point it provided a spot of West coast style entertainment for about 20 minutes. It smoked well and for a few minutes I was excused for smoking myself by Chris. Someone (anonymous) remarked that it reminded them of the engineering technology employed by Harley Davidson. Clearly he/she was not a Harley rider. He /she thought the rattling and banging sounds gave it away. It was shaking more than a young man buying his first pack of condoms. Only an old fart like me would remember an experience like that of course. The social night was great, with ale flowing and some music and a touch of Dancing if I remember correctly. Uly members participated with the normal vigour we have all come to expect on such events. Some Ulys even broke out in song. Great Ballads like my old mans a dustman, Santa clause ^&#$, and of course the traditional favourites like - Willie Nelson s old Hit to all the girls I Loved before. After four Jugs I have to take some responsibility for this outbreak. Some fantastic dancing skills were duly noted as the evening progressed. Ladies were particularly good to watch (and why wouldn t they be?) and certainly showed the best dancing skills by far. It was also a great way to shut the singers up. So a great night had by all and all off to bed (eventually). Hokitika was the chosen venue next morning for a hearty breakfast. Much needed too by the feel of my head. So with empty bladders and full tanks we headed back home after that great feed. I seem to learn something on every uly ride and this one was no different. I was told off and rightly so for a risky overtaking move, sighted by Thea and the TEC - Allan. I was duly lectured about this at our next stop. While a little embarrassed, it is great to know that all Ulys look after each other and we are in a group where safety is a priority, so very reassuring I Think. Plus I ve all ways liked it rough so some fun in having Thea roar at me. 19

20 I want to mention also the great skills of Carol Smith on this Ride. Having had her bike now for only a short while, Carol s riding was great. Go girl, and don t feel like you ever have to explain or check that your riding is okay with others, you ride very well. It s always difficult to pack everything on a ride, and normally if we are all honest we forget something, No different this time, I had to give Allan (TEC) on of my room towels when we arrived at Ross. Don t worry Allan; I have negotiated a deal with NZTS, New Zealand towel supply, to have a towel couriered to the next three overnighter locations freight free addressed to you. Well that s about it really, in summary, A pretty brief review of a real fun weekend and ride. Like most the worst part of all the fun is the thought of work the next morning. But then there is all ways that next ride aye? Great people, great bikes, great place, and great times as I grow old disgracefully. What more could a bloke want, except to win the bike raffle of course. Gavin Smith -#

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22 During a group ride: Be responsible for your passenger's (pillion, sidechair or trike) welfare. Ride in your comfort zone, between RIC and TEC. It is totally accepted (indeed, expected) that you drop off the pace if it is too fast for you, but please wave on riders behind you who may wish to keep a closer contact with the front riders- Be aware of the rider behind you - he/she is your friend, not a competitor on the racetrack. Signal turns and stops clearly. Unless instructed otherwise at the run briefing, when the run changes direction, wait at the corner until you are sure the rider behind can see where to go. If the rider behind is out of sight, stop. (This will allow the run to regroup) A group ride is not a test of skills or a race - just a group of riders with different bikes and different skill levels out for an excursion. Don't test the upper levels of your, or your bike's, abilities on a group ride- Ride staggered when riding in close formation, i.e., front rider rides in the right hand wheel track, next in the left, next in the right, etc. (N.B. Staggered riding has nothing to do with intoxicating liquor or a position from the Karma Sutra.) After overtaking a slower vehicle, move towards the left side of the lane to allow room for the rider following to pass safely too. Don't fixate on the bike in front; scan continuously. Look where you want your bike to go. In the event of an emergency, assist riders in distress, and carry out any instructions RIC or TEC may give. General etiquette: Ride safe, ride courteous. Use your mirrors, your indicators and your commonsense. Consider training courses -old dogs can learn new tricks. (Advanced Riding, Ride Right, Ride Safe, First Aid etc.) Talk with other riders about different runs to get a feel for what would suit you. Consider going on a weekend away to get to know your clubmates -in vino veritas! Special Signals: Left or right arm held bent (stop sign) = caution, may be trouble ahead. Left or right arm held straight above rider's head = Help! Bike or rider in trouble! (If you see this signal, stop and provide assistance.) Here endeth the lesson. Phew!! Enjoy your riding; we'll see you out there. Thank you Auckland Ulysses for sharing this with all of us 22

23 ATGATT! Most of us know what ATGATT means, and some of us even practise it! And no, it s not some arcane ritual, handed down over the centuries by a secret society... For those who don t know, or have forgotten & need reminding, ATGATT stands for All The Gear, All The Time. In other words, when we re out on our bikes, we wear ALL our riding gear helmet, jacket, gloves, riding trousers, and boots no exceptions. Those of us who subscribe to ATGATT, and practise it, have usually found out the hard way that road surfaces are much tougher than our skins, and we have no wish to repeat the test, thanks very much. About 3 years ago I was very glad I practised ATGATT. It was a beautiful, warm, calm summer evening, and I was going to ride to a social event, but I was ready way too early. So I thought I d go for a quiet cruise along the Summit Road first. I briefly considered leaving the riding trou at home, it was such a great evening, but thought No, ATGATT means just that so on went the pants. About 20 minutes later, I was VERY thankful that I d worn all the gear, as the bike and I were sliding along a road surface with the consistency of a giant cheese-grater! We probably hit the deck at no more than 80km/h, but that was more than enough my Cordura jacket was shredded at forearm and elbow, my Cordura pants shredded at knee and hip, and my boots & gloves grazed. The armour inside the jacket & pants was ground away a bit, but my summer shirt and trousers, and my skin underneath them, were untouched. My helmet was unmarked as well. I sprained my wrist & shoulder in the crash, but was able to pick the bike up, restart it, and ride off to the social event, feeling somewhat painful but intact. Without the gear I d have needed skin grafts at the very least, and who knows what else, at worst? The cause of the crash? An oil spill on the corner. My front tyre hit the oil, and down we went. It was a bright, cloudless evening, and the corner was in shadow, so I didn t see the oil. I was travelling so slowly that I hadn t used my brakes since turning onto the Summit Road from Dyers Pass, so excessive speed certainly wasn t a factor! Did I expect to crash that evening? Of course not. Who does? But I was dressed for it, and came away practically unscathed. Think about that, before you climb aboard your bike the next time. If the only protective gear you re wearing is your helmet, there s an awful lot of you just waiting to make contact with something hard/sharp/hot when some car driver fails to give way, or opens their door into your path, or a truck spills diesel onto a roundabout. And on the subject of protective gear, what s with the current fashion for not wearing gloves on the bike? I ve seen dozens of riders doing just that over the last few months. It seems to make no difference how old the rider or bike is, how large or small, or what type of bike it is I ve seen riders of scooters, small road bikes, trail bikes, standards, sport bikes, adventure bikes, cruisers, and large tourers, all glove-free, even when they re wearing protective gear everywhere else. I m an electrical tech, so I work with my hands all day. If you don t need to use your hands for your work, then by all means leave your gloves at home, but before you do, think about how difficult it would be to eat, wash, and use the loo with both hands bandaged, never mind trying to ride your bike! Finally, for those who reckon it s too hot to wear their protective gear, remember this: Sweat washes off, road rash doesn t! Ride safer, Jeff Grace #

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25 WELFARE OFFICER S REPORT No news of illness or accidents to report this month, long may this continue as we enjoy one of the hottest summers on record in Canterbury.take care on these roads this summer. Carolyn Falkenberg # Welfare Officer, Ulysses Canterbury Ladies Coffee Morning! At Anna s Café, Tower Junction, 10am last Saturday of every month, no need to book, just arrive. A man walked out to the street and caught a taxi just going by. He got into the taxi, and the cabbie said, "Perfect timing. You're just like Brian" Passenger: "Who?" Cabbie: "Brian Sullivan. He's a guy who did everything right all the time. Like my coming along when you needed a cab, things happen like that to Brian Sullivan, every single time." Passenger: "There are always a few clouds over everybody." Cabbie: "Not Brian Sullivan. He was a terrific athlete. He could have won the Grand Slam at tennis. He could golf with the pros. He sang like an opera baritone and danced like a Broadway star and you should have heard him play the piano. He was an amazing guy." Passenger: "Sounds like he was something really special." Cabbie: "There's more.. He had a memory like a computer. He remembered everybody's birthday. He knew all about wine, which foods to order and which fork to eat them with. He could fix anything. Not like me. I change a fuse, and the whole street blacks out. But Brian Sullivan, he could do everything right." Passenger: "Wow. Some guy then." Cabbie: "He always knew the quickest way to go in traffic and avoid traffic jams. Not like me, I always seem to get stuck in them. But Brian, he never made a mistake, and he really knew how to treat a woman and make her feel good. He would never answer her back even if she was in the wrong; and his clothing was always immaculate, shoes highly Polished too. He was the perfect man! He never made a mistake. No one could ever measure up to Brian Sullivan." Passenger: "An amazing fellow. How did you meet him?" Cabbie: "Well, I never actually met Brian. He died. I'm married to his bloody widow." 25

26 32 Allen Street, Christchurch Phone Fax info@citymotorcyclerentals.com GROUP RATES QUOTED FOR Ulysses Motor Cycle Club Group Booking Reference: FA5485 MUST SHOW MEMBERSHIP CARD Off Peak Fares: Each Way Off Peak Dates: 1 July to 15 December 2012 Adult $41.00 Children $25.00 Motorcycle $37.00 Car/Van up to 5.5 metres $ each Each half metre over 5.5 metres $17.00 Peak Fares: Each Way Peak Dates: Dec 2012, Jan 2013, 8-10 Feb 2012 Adult $ Mar to 2 Apr 2013 Children $25.00 Motorcycle $49.00 Car/Van up to 5.5 metres $ each Each half metre over 5.5 metres $22.00 Super Peak Dates 23 December 2012 to 12 January 2013 Off Peak 2 dates 1-7 Feb 2013, 11 Feb-27 Mar 2013 Adult $62 3 Apr to 15 Dec 2013 Children $39 Adult $42 Motorcycle $56 Children $25 Car/Van up to 5.5 metres $146 Motorcycle $39 Each half metre over 5.5 metres $30 Car/Van up to 5.5 metres $126 each extra half metre $19 Group Booking conditions and instructions for members are: Each reservation must be made direct with Interislander Phone Group Desk Hours: Monday Friday Saturday 0800-noon. Fares valid 16 December 2011 to 30 June To access these rates members must quote group reference FA

27 ADVERTISING PAGE If you want to advertise on this page it will cost $40 for a quarter of the page, for one year. The newsletter is ed to more than 200 members, and is available freely on our website to thousands of people. Please contact the Editor, (see Page 2) if you wish to advertise. You will need good clear copy of what you wish to advertise, and the Editor reserves the right to refuse advertisement, edit or abridge the copy in the case of the copy not fitting in with our principles and ethics. Business cards and other copy can be enlarged to fit the space available. Our rates are very competitive so we look forward to hearing from you. Of course as always advertising is free to Ulysses members for personal items. 27

28 Calendar of Rides Rallies and Events RIDES CALENDAR - March This is a guide only, for the latest info on rides please visit the Ulysses Canterbury Web Site at : and click on What s On on the main menu. Note --- unless stated below, ALL rides will leave from Z Curletts Road, or from the Belfast Hotel (usually known as The Peg). Sunday rides leave at 10.30am, OR as stated below.' Note -- RIC = Rider in Charge... TEC = Tail End Charlie If you lose this sheet you can print another one off on the above page under Printer Friendly Version Button Web Master, Robert Edgeler, Ulysses # canterbury@ulysses.org.nz Date Where to Details Fri Sat 15/16 March National AGM in Rotorua See website for details Wed 20 March Branch Social Meeting At Cashmere Club at 7.15, meals available from 6pm Wed 27 March Fish n Chip Ride Meet at The Peg at 6pm sharp, RIC Robert Edgeler Sat 20 March West Coast Poker Run See Website for details Sat 13 April 25th year Ulysses Anniversary Twizel, see website for details, also elsewhere in this newsletter for accommodation 28

29 Date Where to Details Wed 17 April Branch Social Meeting Cashmere Club, Hunter Terrace, meals available from 6pm, meeting starts at 7.15pm 29

30 If not found, please return to Unit 7/165 Chester Street East, Christchurch Central, Christchurch