Port Stephens Ulysses Branch

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April 2014 Port Stephens Ulysses Branch President: Merilyn (aka Leo) Evans Ph 0249191488, Mob 0412140516 Secretary/Treasurer: Anne Crowley Mob 0417688569 Committee: Anne Crowley, Eve Johnstone, John

au Member of the Month Hi Everyone, President s Report Well some of our Branch members are already on their way to Alice, namely Jack and Eve and Paul. It is just over 2 weeks until we leave.

We are also meeting up with a large group from Wollondilly Wanderers in Broken Hill and I believe the Broken Hill Branch plans to catch up with us on the night we are in town.

Bob and Marilyn are off on their big O/S trip shortly, I am sure they will have a wonderful time.

1 April 2014 Port Stephens Ulysses Branch President: Merilyn (aka Leo) Evans Ph , Mob Secretary/Treasurer: Anne Crowley Mob Committee: Anne Crowley, Eve Johnstone, John Beddoe, Bob Lucas Ride Coordinator: John Beddoe All sensible correspondence to: 56/4320 Nelson Bay Rd, Anna Bay 2316 Newsletter correspondence to: Bob , Member of the Month Hi Everyone, President s Report Well some of our Branch members are already on their way to Alice, namely Jack and Eve and Paul. It is just over 2 weeks until we leave. John and Gail, Dave, Bob Croft and Phil McTaggart are travelling with us. We are also meeting up with a large group from Wollondilly Wanderers in Broken Hill and I believe the Broken Hill Branch plans to catch up with us on the night we are in town. There are close to 2500 members and their partners making the journey. I hope everyone rides carefully and arrives safely. It is a long trip. Bob and Marilyn are off on their big O/S trip shortly, I am sure they will have a wonderful time. From all reports last meeting was a lot of fun with Brett at the helm so I am going to be acting Secretary/Treasurer at the next meeting and let Brett have another go at President, so I can experience him in action. Whilst on the subject of Brett, not only can he run a great meeting he can also fish! He cleaned up at the last Bargoed House camping trip with a 62cm flathead. It was another great few days away; we had our largest group yet. The next trip is scheduled for 23 rd Oct until 26 th Oct. The Branch is again doing breakfast at Ethicas on the Monday of the long weekend 9 th June commencing at 8.30am. I will need numbers please. July is shaping up to be a busy month with Coffs Bush Christmas in July 4-6 th July, Our Branch Christmas in July at Urunga on 19 th July. Jack is organising this one and the Hills Branch is again organising a ride to the Donkey Farm on 26 th July. More information at the next meeting. Mudgee Branch are having their 20 th Anniversary Dinner Saturday 9 th August instead of their Meet and Greet. Numbers are limited to 200. See info. further on in this newsletter.

As you will read in Anne s report she has decided to stand again as Secretary/Treasurer. THANKYOU Anne, you are doing a great job. Also Paul has been nominated for President.

2 As you will read in Anne s report she has decided to stand again as Secretary/Treasurer. THANKYOU Anne, you are doing a great job. Also Paul has been nominated for President. A reminder that we still need 3 committee members, also someone to take over from John Beddoe as ride co- coordinator and website manager, as John will not be either of these next year. Nominations need to be in by the May meeting as the Branch AGM will be held at the June meeting. Our next meeting is next Friday 25 th July (Anzac Day) hope to see you there, Stay Safe, Leo (Merilyn) Secretary/Treasurer s Report Much laughter, so much laughter I couldn t take notes, but it was a great Meeting. Sold Branch Shirt and two patches to Steve Grimmond at meeting. The April meeting should be a hoot Brett is standing in I ll leave the pearls with Leo for you Brett. I am very happy to report that I will be continuing as Secretary/Treasurer for the next twelve months. I have enjoyed my time so far, even though only a few months, and have learnt lots, and more especially appreciate the mateship and community spirit of the Port Stephens Branch. I am also happy to report that I have a nomination for President, my wonderful husband Paul Mulvay, member Many thanks Brett for your efforts at our March meeting. Leo would have been proud of you but then I m sure you have something just as interesting lined up for the April meeting. Regards Anne Crowley Secretary/Treasurer

3 MINUTES OF SOCIAL MEETING 28 March 2014 (at Soldiers Point Bowling Club) Meeting Opened: 7.30pm Apologies: John & Leo Evans, Malu & Doreen, Sue Ford, Trevor & Sue McGarry, Denis & Carol Mahoney, Big Phil. Attendance: 20 Brett Davis, in his chair at the Oval Office presided as follows: The music played, the screen lit up, and the meeting opened President Brett welcomed all in attendance List of apologies Brett shared many photos of his Route 66 trip with Jennifer, and branch members John and Leo, Gail and John and a few others. Lots of stories about places visited, meals eaten, places of interest etc. Brett agreed that the BBQ Breakfast on 2 March 2014 at John and Leo s was a great success The upcoming Breakfast/Coffee at Ethica Café Nelson Bay is on Easter Monday time to be confirmed. to be forwarded to members. Long discussion with members re nominating for branch committee April meeting is Anzac Day General Business: Bob Croft gave his report on the Poker Run. Bob thanked all Port Stephens Riders. Funds of $ donated to UCARF. Kerrie gave a short report on the Girls Lunch disappointing Col Williams Dementia Test much fun and laughter Branch AGM at June meeting - members reminded that nominations due at May meeting Xmas in July at Urunga on 18 th and 19 th July Plenty of accommodation at Caravan Park, Hotel, Motel. More music, more photos and then Boys Corner: Brett shared more photos, especially the American Museum with aeroplanes, space shuttles, motor bikes, and not to forget his selfie with Wayne Gardner More music, photos and much laughter Burning Ring of Fire.and hot chillies.

Fines: Dave now retired forgot his wallet and had to borrow from Jack but he did pay his fine with Jack s money well done Dave. John West last to sign attendance sheet.

4 Fines: Dave now retired forgot his wallet and had to borrow from Jack but he did pay his fine with Jack s money well done Dave. John West last to sign attendance sheet. Jennifer buying the wrong size beer for President Brett. Al Ford phone rang during the meeting. Jack interjecting during the meeting but he did buy the Pres and Sec a drink thanks Jack. Wally naughty as usual. Jackie she and Brian kissed on their anniversary - as evidenced on the big screen one of Brett s snaps. Raffles: Steve, Wally, Big John, Jackie. And then the Photo of the Most Incredible Secretary caused much laughter Secretary attempted to report on incoming mail received AGM Raffle tickets $5.00 each February Meeting Fines $9.05, Raffles $90.00, Sale of branch shirt and patch $34.00 Banked $62.75 from funds from BBQ at John and Leo s on 2 March 2014 General Account $889.39; Meet & Greet Account $ Brett volunteered to be Secretary/Treasurer at April meeting No time for further business as President Brett required to leave the room (only had three drinks). Meeting Closed at 9.00p.m. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN HARLEYS & HOOVERS? They have something in common at least, they both suck. But there is a difference! You only get one dirt bag on a Hoover.

Greetings all, ALMOST WET (A report from our esteemed Midweek Ride Coordinator) When I arrived at Hexham I was met by Don Winter, Mayor of Jesmond, who was enjoying a coffee with all his mates.

We investigated Raymond Terrace, Nelson Plain, Hinton, Seaham, Clarencetown and Allison before enjoying a break at Dungog.

Note that we had finished our meal. We were so ravenous when we arrived we couldn't be bothered with a photo till we had dined.

Apparently my riding companions found they needed to utilise extra concentration on the backroads we used but I thought the conditions weren't too bad.

5 Greetings all, ALMOST WET (A report from our esteemed Midweek Ride Coordinator) When I arrived at Hexham I was met by Don Winter, Mayor of Jesmond, who was enjoying a coffee with all his mates. We were joined by Allan Lamb right on 9.30 so by the time Allan and I took our Ulyssian bladders to the loo and climbed into our safety gear no one else had arrived and it was Time to leave. We investigated Raymond Terrace, Nelson Plain, Hinton, Seaham, Clarencetown and Allison before enjoying a break at Dungog. After that it was up over Bingleburra, East Gresford, Vacy, Patterson, Bolwarra Hts, Lambs Valley, Luskintyre and Lochinvar before lunch at Branxton, photo attached. Note that we had finished our meal. We were so ravenous when we arrived we couldn't be bothered with a photo till we had dined. Or perhaps it was because we had to con some poor sucker into taking the bloody photo so all 3 of us could be in it. I still require more training in "Selfies". Apparently my riding companions found they needed to utilise extra concentration on the backroads we used but I thought the conditions weren't too bad. As I rode across the rail line entering Dungog I decided to test the level of traction provided by the rubberised road surface they use to fill the gap between the tracks by giving the DL a bit of throttle in second gear. The resulting fishtail: 1- proved there is actually very little traction, 2 -frightened the life out of me. Change of underwear almost required and 3 - provided Don with a good laugh. I don't think I'll conduct that experiment again. I also managed to locate several areas of roadworks. JB would be proud! One lot was covered in a particulary greasy clay like base which, having been dampened by VERY recent rain, was even more slippery than expected. Added to this was the problem created by a truck preceding us which had made the profile of the road surface into an odd shape that was not suited to motorcycles. There was some slipping and sliding, complaints from my fellow riders and a couple of less than clean machines. I anticipate further complaints from The Mayor. Post dinner we rode north from Branxton and joined the new freeway at it's very beginning so we could ride it's full length. Boring it is but it will be a great improvement for regular travellers. Did it rain I hear you ask? Well sort of Yes and No. A lot of the roads we covered were damp and we did occasionally have spots of rain on our visors and screens BUT at no stage did I feel the necessity to stop and cloth myself in wet weather attire and, even in my summer jacket annd Draggin Camos, I didn't even become damp. I'd almost be prepared to say No.

6 Not sure what's happening next week as I need to prepare for our upcoming road trip in the Nissan Quadracycle so someone else may have to step into the breach and organise the weekly rides while I'm away. I'll let you know. Until we ride together again take care and stay safe, Steve. thanks for the report and pic Steve. Other pix by anonymous contributors BEDDOE S 65 th BIRTHDAY RIDE JB and his bride headed off recently for an outback ride to celebrate his birthday, as he usually does Didn t invite any friends to go with him this time though... As his pix show, they did make it all the way to Bourke, taking in some great countryside as they travelled. Happy birthday, JB!

OK guys, we hope to catch up with most of you at Friday night s meeting, as that s the last time we ll see you until August, after we get back from 3 months through Europe and the UK.

But hey, providing you ve got the initiative, and some sort of publishing software, it only takes about 12-15 hours a month to put something together, depending on what the members

June: Tony, Steve Perrin, Rod Freeborn Bob s Blurb (the big five-oh!), Pam, Gail, Shean (the big sixoh where are you these days, Shean?), Maryanne (one to go!), Old Trev, Young Dave.

ANOTHER FISHY STORY Brett wasn t the only one enjoying fishing prowess last week! Mine wasn t a fish as such, but worthy of a trophy anyway, I reckon.

And yes, they re real-sized (9) feet - Marilyn s, in fact And the oysters were pretty massive down there too TANK WANTED FOR KWAKKA Z1100 If anyone knows of the whereabouts of a fuel tank

7 OK guys, we hope to catch up with most of you at Friday night s meeting, as that s the last time we ll see you until August, after we get back from 3 months through Europe and the UK. Not sure what s happening with the newsletter, as Jack s also away for a coupla months during our absence. But hey, providing you ve got the initiative, and some sort of publishing software, it only takes about hours a month to put something together, depending on what the members contribute for you to publish (usually very little ). Have a go at it... UPCOMING BIRTHDAYS May: Allan Lamb, Cathie, Big Al, Marilyn, Rena, Richo. June: Tony, Steve Perrin, Rod Freeborn Bob s Blurb (the big five-oh!), Pam, Gail, Shean (the big sixoh where are you these days, Shean?), Maryanne (one to go!), Old Trev, Young Dave. July: Chris McCarthy, Big Phil, Jenny (one to go!), Susie, Ross, Julie, Renate, Ed (the big one coming up!), Dors. ANOTHER FISHY STORY Brett wasn t the only one enjoying fishing prowess last week! Mine wasn t a fish as such, but worthy of a trophy anyway, I reckon. Caught this beauty while fishing in Lake Conjola (near Ulladulla) last week with the grandkids. And yes, they re real-sized (9) feet - Marilyn s, in fact And the oysters were pretty massive down there too TANK WANTED FOR KWAKKA Z1100 If anyone knows of the whereabouts of a fuel tank to suit an old Kawasaki Z1100 could you please ring me on , or me at lucasfam@iprimus.com.au BIT OF A CHANGE! There was a knock on the door this morning. I opened it to find a young man standing there who said: "Hello sir, I'm a Jehovah's Witness..." I said "Come in and sit down." I offered him coffee and asked, "What do you want to talk about?" He said,"buggered if I know, I've never got this far before." Got me beat why they named the poor little bugger Dick? I looked up my family tree, and found out I was the sap...

coveted Bargoed House Fishing Trophy recently.

behind, thus forcing him to steal their blue kayak (and Dave took Merilyn s pink one no

As Brett did have witnesses to his catch, JE wasn t able to re-appoint himself the winner

bring it with him to hand over to the rightful recipient!

effort obviously sapped all your energy.

Brian, JE and Lynn Edwards for the pix I am so sorry Bob.

I have been tapping your wife, day and night when you're not around.

8 NEW FISHING CHAMP! What a warm, fuzzy feeling I experienced to learn that young Brett had taken out the coveted Bargoed House Fishing Trophy recently. He managed to get out and nab two beaut flatties despite Evans deliberately leaving him behind, thus forcing him to steal their blue kayak (and Dave took Merilyn s pink one no wonder he didn t catch any!). As Brett did have witnesses to his catch, JE wasn t able to re-appoint himself the winner as he usually does just a shame he presumed he d win the trophy himself again, and didn t bring it with him to hand over to the rightful recipient! Don t worry Brett, you ll get it eventually you certainly deserve it, even though the effort obviously sapped all your energy... JUMPING TO CONCLUSIONS A man received the following text from his neighbour: thanks to Brian, JE and Lynn Edwards for the pix I am so sorry Bob. I've been riddled with guilt and I have to confess. I have been tapping your wife, day and night when you're not around. In fact, more than you. I'm not getting any at home, but that's no excuse. I can no longer live with the guilt and I hope you will accept my sincerest apology with my promise that it won't happen again. The man, anguished and betrayed, went into his bedroom, grabbed his gun and, without a word, shot his wife and killed her. Damn Autocorrect. I meant wifi, not wife... A few moments later, a second text came in: and thanks to JB for that one

Remember John Kerr and his attempt to make this happen back last November? Well, here s the latest from John:- From: John Kerr [mailto:johnotbird@gmail.

9 Remember John Kerr and his attempt to make this happen back last November? Well, here s the latest from John:- From: John Kerr [mailto:johnotbird@gmail.com] Sent: Monday, 24 March :19 PM Subject: FW: Ride for July Hi Anne, Last year I tried to organize a ride to the Donkey Sanctuary which included both the Hills Branch and the Port Stephens branch. Sadly, I could not get the numbers, so the ride was cancelled. This time, I will combine the ride with the Christmas in July celebration that the Donkey Sanctuary runs every year. I recall the interest from Port Stephens was very good, so hopefully all those members will still want to go. There are more details to come, but here is what I have so far. Donkey Sanctuary/Xmas in July - Saturday 26 th /Sunday 27 th July. Enjoy a great Xmas in July lunch with the donkeys at the Good Samaritan Donkey Sanctuary at Glen William (near Clarence Town). Day ride - Saturday - ride up to the Sanctuary for lunch and back home in the afternoon Weekend ride - Saturday/Sunday - ride up Saturday for lunch - on to Morpeth or Dungog for overnight stay/ride home on Sunday Further details to follow including departure points and time - put it in the diary now! I imagine the Port Stephens members will be more interested in the Saturday day ride. I will be in touch when the rest of the details are finalised. Thanks and regards John Kerr

11 PROPOSED RIDES & EVENTS Port Stephens Branch Rides:- None proposed For further information about rides, refer to website:- Upcoming Events:- 27/06/14: Branch AGM. Committee position nominations have to be in by May, and are still needed desperately! 19/07/14: Christmas in July at Urunga Accommodation at the Ocean View Hotel, 15 Morgo Street, Urunga Ph Rooms $50 a single or $90 a double, including Continental Breakfast (or at the motel across the street). Not sure yet of the dinner cost, but the Dining Room is booked. When making your booking, mention Port Stephens Ulysses. Contact the pub directly for further details if required. BE CAREFUL BE VERY CAREFUL...! After being married for thirty years, a wife asked her husband to describe her. He looked at her for a while, then said, "You're an alphabet wife... A, B, C, D, E, F, G, H, I, J, K." She asks... "What the hell does that mean?" He said, "Adorable, Beautiful, Cute, Delightful, Elegant, Fabulous, Gorgeous, and Hot". She smiled happily and said... "Oh, that's so lovely, but what about I,J,& K?" He said, "I'm Just Kidding!" The swelling in his eye is going down, and the doctor is fairly optimistic about saving one of his testicles. thanks to Trev for this one

12 THE LONG RIDE (for Prostate Cancer) 2014 From: David MacLeod Sent: Wednesday, 5 March :14 AM Subject: The long Ride. Hi, Please help us raise as much money as we can by going to the website give.everydayhero.com/au/the-long-ride-2014-for-the-prostate-cancer-foundation-of-aus and help fight the cause of Prostate Cancer. By donating just a couple of... gold coins, helps us enormously, and the more donations we get the more work can be done to get equipment and research done for this deadly disease. Please put your hand in you pocket and pull out the loose change you have and for the cost of a cup of coffee, we can fight the cause of Prostate Cancer and every cent helps. Please donate, as we appreciate all the help we can get. Thank you for your support, David MacLeod. Help THE LONG RIDE 2014 For The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia make a difference everydayhero.com Please show your support by giving through THE LONG RIDE 2014 For The Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia's Supporter page and... John, Can you pass this onto all the Ulysses Club Members for me please. It is The Long Ride and it s for the Prostate Cancer Foundation of Australia. We are riding from Sydney to Uluru in September All members are welcome to come for a Long Ride Click the website and follow the links. Best wishes to all, David MacLeod. Thanks David and take it from one who knows, this is a worthy cause! WHOOPS! Two guys were roaring down the road on a motorcycle when the driver slowed up and pulled over. His leather jacket had a broken zipper, and he told his friend, "I can't drive anymore with the air hitting me in the chest like that." "Just put the jacket on backwards." his friend advised. They continued down the road but around the next bend, they lost control and wiped out. A nearby farmer came upon the accident and rang to call the police. They asked him, "Are they showing any signs of life?" "Well," the farmer explained, "the driver was, until I turned his head around the right way!"

FOR SALE (Peter) These people support us.

John Beddoe financial services & advice Ph 0418 651

service Ph 02 4982 4921, mobile 0410 424 921 Dennis

seamstress Ph 02 4982 1876 Jacqueline Scocco

Centre NELSON BAY Ph 02 4984 3332 10% off all hair

Beddoe Anne Crowley John Evans Laraine Howes John

Salamander Bay 02 4919 1488 0419 618 397

13 FOR SALE (Peter) These people support us.. Do the right thing and support them! John Beddoe financial services & advice Ph Jack Johnstone security system installation & service Ph , mobile Dennis Mahoney leatherwork Ph Doreen Easthope seamstress Ph Jacqueline Scocco Champagne Colours Shop 12, Austral Street Shopping Centre NELSON BAY Ph % off all hair services to Ulysses members and their guests. Always service with a smile. JUSTICES OF THE PEACE (within the Branch) John Beddoe Anne Crowley John Evans Laraine Howes John McGrath Paul Mulvay Ron Skinner 150a Salamander Way Salamander Bay merilynevans@ex .com.au 10% off for all Ulyssians! and Kim s the boss Yep, Scottie & Karl

Port Stephens Ulysses Branch

January 2016 Port Stephens Ulysses Branch President: Kerrie Skinner Ph 0249651560, Mob 0418284752 Secretary: Anne Crowley Mob 0417688569 Treasurer: Jackie McCallum Ph 0249844867, Mob 0408297976 Committee: