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1 Our website: Volume 4 Number 3 9 April 2008 PO Box 4184 BUNDABERG QLD newsletter@rumcityriders.org Contact: Ron Henry Cathy Fritz Bill Lumsden Ride Reports Thursday 6 March There were 19 participants and we were ready to go. The route was to take us to Childers where we caught up with Paul and Glyn who were to be the ride leaders. The final destination was to be the Gunalda Hotel where mine host was Paul s brother, Peter. There must be a Mary somewhere! Our first stop was the servo at Maryborough South and then on to Gunalda. There it was. A great little pub sheltered off the highway on the hill overlooking the main drag. We were well looked after by Peter and Margaret and all thoroughly enjoyed the tucker. The group headed off via Gundiah to Tiaro for fuel. We all got to wave to the tilt train as we waited at a remote crossing behind the highway. Bob and Heather, Peter and Ron headed up the highway while the rest of the crew headed along the old highway with us all catching up at the Apple Tree Creek pub for final stories and farewells. This was a looooong ride for a Thursday. Some 350 kilometres saw us all call upon our great resilience to get through the day. Some great country, good roads and lots of fun. Monday 10 March Ron A late asking for help had a call for riders to escort some scooter riders who were travelling from Wollongong to Cairns and back in 22 days. These folk were out to raise the awareness of people to children with Autism. The Ride For Autism saw two guys led by Chris Newbold riding 125 cc Arqin Scooters and one riding an automatic 250 cc fun looking road bike. The Ulysses Club Bundaberg Branch guys rallied to their aid and we provided an escort from Bundaberg to Gin Gin at 7.00am. Bundaberg North Lions members and the Ride for Autism Crew with our members The ride was slow but fun. The scooters managed around 90 kph on the flat and a little less up the hills. Our members were very happy to support them and wish them well in their attempts to raise awareness of ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder) and to support their efforts to raise funds for ASD facilities across Australia. 1

2 The Cania Trip Friday 5 bikes ( 2 were trikes) met at Gin Gin ready for a great weekend! Hendos, Campbells, Scotts and Mick & Astra were all towing campers and Rick was towing his trailer. We headed off about 10am with John in the lead and Steve tail end Charlie. It was a beautiful day and everyone was looking forward to the weekend away. Stopped at Mount Perry for our usual fuel stop ( Steve needs to stop every hundred klms to fuel up, I think it is an excuse for a smoke stop). We were off again, the country ride was very relaxing until we got to Mulgilldie, when some bloody idiot in a car stopped in the middle of the road in front of the bikes. Bikes and trailers were going in all directions to miss the car. We avoided potential disaster due to all riders keeping a good distance between each bike as we travelled. If we were travelling any closer together I believe some of us might not have been here today to talk about it. Another fuel stop in Monto, and off to Cania. We set up camp at our usual spot down on Rabbit flats and then settled in for an evening around the camp fire. Next day a few of us went on some of the walks while others layed around the camp site. John Butters and Ryan arrived and stayed long enough for a cuppa and then they were off again. The boys from Eidsvold came up for the day and brought a boat with them. Some of the ladies were taken on a tour around the dam which was very enjoyable. Around lunchtime, another few bikes arrived, Bill & Lolit, Bruce & Gail, Bruce & linda, Ryan, John Butters, Chris and Owen.. Later that afternoon everyone joined together for the Rum City Riders Cricket match, some played, some were spectators, but we all had a great time. Thanks to Steve for making the Rum City Riders Cricket bat. To finish off a great day we all sat around the camp fire, listening to music and having a few drinks. I think everyone would agree that it was an enjoyable weekend. Editor s Note: On this particular Sunday 9 March 2008 Bundaberg Branch had some 52 riders on various rides at the same time. That s 52 people out having fun and enjoying motorcycling safely! That s only the riders we are aware of! Tuesday 11 Thursday 13 March Ride to see Rabbi in Roma Paul Evers and Ron made a quick dash to Roma to visit our friend and former Branch member, Rabbi. We had an excellent ride down through Proston and Chinchilla and made Roma with ample time by the end of the day on Tuesday. We spent Wednesday morning in the company of Rabbi chatting and sharing some stories. Both Paul and I were pleased to note that Rabbi had received his newsletters from the Branch. Rabbi remains active with his art with his works in progress around his lounge room. We are also pleased to advise that Rabbi, while acknowledging his health issues, is full of fight and expressed much determination to beat those health problems. Those of us who know Rabbi well know that he can be a vigorous fighter and his determination has few equals. I am sure Rabbi was pleased to see us and I will make every effort to see him again in a few weeks time. Paul and I returned via Dalby overnighting at Wondai at the Warana Hotel Motel which is owned by former Bundy residents and offers comfortable budget accommodation. It was a good ride with a return trip of around 1280 klms. Monduran Dam Ride Sunday March 9 Author:- Linda Scott Editor:- John Scott Untouched by Newsletter Editor Seemed like a good day for a short ride. Ian left around 9 to grab a site for us, and 14? bikes + a couple of four wheelers left for Gin Gin to pick up the Baker clan. As you do sometimes we left a little earlier than advertised and of course Murphy s Law kicked in and we left one behind. Sorry Lyn. A quick run to the dam where we found Ian and Andrew waiting for us, after a chat some of the male contingent were set to work preparing some tucker for us all. Ian trying hard to get some heat from the electric BBQ, which I'm sure was powered by a well known Virago battery, eventually got quite a good lunch ready for us, luckily just before the rain came. Some departed early with most for us leaving around 2?? can t remember, riding back through the rain to South Kolan for a couple of brews before heading home. A very enjoyable little ride, thanks to Ian for organising and cooking lunch, also to everyone who assisted on the day, and to Roy who tailended for me. Cathy Paul, Ron and Rabbi Rabbi is currently in the PA hospital battling an eye infection as a side effect of his current medication. N.B. Rabbi has found a very interesting use for his old helmets they make great pot plants to welcome you to his unit. Thursday 20 March The group, all 9 of us, had almost decided where we were off to when we had a change of our collective mind. Lyn had an appointment in Maryborough so we all decided that she 2

3 needed some company and that a meal at the Aussie wouldn t be a bad idea. With a few clouds around we headed out along Goodwood Road wondering when we would get wet. Joining us for his first ride with the Ulysses Branch was Tony on his Harley Low Rider. Welcome, Tony. We soon encountered our first bit of rain. Short and sweet and we were back to pleasant riding weather. In fact, that was how it was to be all day. We dodged the inclement parts of the weather and enjoyed the cloudy day. After lunch and lots of conversation, we headed down the road to Hervey Bay turning off to return to Torbanlea where we fuelled up. Sacrificing our last stop at Apple Tree due to weather we found ourselves back in Bundy around 3.00 pm after a pleasant ride with lots of caravans and friendly policemen on the road the day before Easter. Ron for Bruce, Linda, Lyn, Robyn, Paul, Tony, Ron W and Keith Easter Saturday Ride A very overcast morning saw 12 bikes with 21 intrepid people ready to ride at 9am, 6 bikes coming from Capricornia Branch via Bargara for the ride. Out through Goodwood Rd, Farnsfield, Cedars, & on to Wallaville for smoko, where we met the Mt Perry subbranch, and newbie Adrian Kessey, giving us 13 bikes 23 people, Rob Bauer having dropped out to nurse a sick dog. Got our daily shower going to Biggenden for fuel, then onto the twisties where whoever's in charge decided to open the tap again and fixed any dry bits we had left. Takes all the fun out of bends when you can't see the road ahead. We had a fantastic lunch at Apple Tree Creek, then, as the rain continued, decided to abandon the rest of the ride & head for home via Cedars. Yeh Right!! Just before Cedars we were bucketed again so just waved everyone straight on to Bundy, guiding the Rocky riders to River Cruz to make their way to Bargara. On to Paradise Dam for another chat & some chocky eggs, just about to leave when we saw a car with blue / red M&Ms on the roof, so we resolved to watch our speeds [ as we always do of course ]. Everyone seemed to have a good day, other newbies were Tony Olsen, and Rose, a new pillion with John Butters. Thank you Greg for tailending. Stats for the day we travelled 280kms, were home by 315, and ONLY saw 3 police cars. Owen =========================================================================== A Tale of a Ride to the Superbikes To begin, it started out as one those of idle topics about how good it would be to go for a ride to see the Australian round of the World Superbike series late last year. We certainly had the machinery to do the task but had not been able to go as a group much further than about a 600km day ride. With Braddo and Steve Nestdale having contacts down south, accommodation was arranged at Inverloch and the trip was on. Much planning was involved with the route being determined by a combination of RACQ web site data and Jim s Garmin Zumo sat-nav attached to his FJR (Ultimately this device actually got us lost on a few occasions). On Tuesday 26 th February after standing around for a photo session early in the morning we were finally on our way. By the time we d got to Ban-Ban Springs, the heavens had opened up making the Goomeri to Inglewood section unpleasant. The rain even managed to cause Jim s Garmin sat-nav to stop working and dump out the pre-programmed route course. So much for the electronic gadgetry! 3

4 List of the Old Bargara Bikers: John Braddo Bradford (Triumph Tiger 995), John McGregor (Honda ST 1300A), Jim Markey (Yamaha FJR 1300), Steve Nestdale (Suzuki GSX 1400), Con Chatham (Honda ST 1300A) and Bruce Grove The Drug Dealer (Honda ST 1300PA). Yes the P designates the police, not the poverty model. Accommodation was under the two to four star variety with the first overnight stop at Bingara (no not the sugar mill at Bingera) being the two star (or possibly even 1 star) variety. It was however quite cheap but very cheerful. It was here everyone found out who snored and who didn t. After the day s riding, bike crapola was spouted at the bar. This was to continue as a pattern for the rest of the trip. Fortunately with three Honda ST s in the group we had superiority in numbers. At the end of day 2 (Wednesday) saw us in Mudgee. Fortunately we had just managed to get our bikes under cover when a daddy of a thunderstorm opened up. It was a really Donder und Blitzen affair and quite entertaining. Little did we know at the time that this was also to greet us early next morning and make the day s (at least that morning s) riding absolutely dreadful. All I wanted to do was to get the day s riding over with as I managed to get wet feet, wet hands, wet shoulders and the rain even managed to get in under the waterproof trousers and give me a damp crotch. Fortunately after being miserable at Sofala, the weather began to improve and by the lunch stop at Cootamundra things had begun to dry out. At Wagga, the accommodation had improved to four stars, although with everyone leaving all their damp gear outside to dry out, the motel s star rating probably deteriorated during our overnight stay. Wagga was also the place where we had rendezvoused with Tassie one of the southern contacts who led us into Inverloch on Friday afternoon. It was on this leg of the trip where two mishaps occurred. At Beechworth, Con, in his haste to catch up with the front of the group, forgot to select 1 st gear and promptly had about 340kg of fully loaded ST flop on top of him at the curb. He was lucky that his only injury was groin strain which was to plague him for about 2 weeks after the trip. Aside from Con s mishap this part of the trip, all of us enjoyed the day s riding, especially during the twisty bits in Victoria s alpine region. My ST, however, was no match for Tassie s Triumph Daytona and his familiarity with these roads. The other mishap which occurred on Friday was Braddo s self inflicted ethanol poisoning that night. Saturday finally saw us at the Phillip Island racing circuit after an early morning 60km ride from our rented house at Inverloch. What an amazing circuit and event! The weather was kind to us and we even found we could walk right around the perimeter of the track. The speed of the bikes was amazing. On TV it looks really quite slow, but in the flesh it is mind-boggling. During practice the fastest competitors such as Troy Corser, Troy Bayliss, and Max Biaggi were circulating in around 1 minute and some thirty-two seconds. I reckon I could probably do the same lap in about 1 hour and thirty-two minutes! Even the 600 s were circulating in around 1 minute and thirty-five. 312kmh was the top speed for the superbikes measured down the main straight. I think that was Troy Corser aboard his Yamaha R1. Additionally, there was a major bike show tent as well with most of the major manufacturers being represented. The Ducati display for me was 4

5 probably the pick (the 1098S is pure sex in a bike as far as I m concerned) but they were closely followed by the Buell and Harley-Davidson crew. The most disappointing display was from Honda with the 2008 variant of the ST 1300 being a Barry Unsworth cardigan grey colour. Outwardly, aside from the crappy colour, I couldn t see any difference from the previously available model! Sunday, the big day and we were fortunate to be able to find a spot at Siberia, one of the more challenging sections of the circuit. Even Braddo had recovered sufficiently to make it. We even got to see Troy Corser crash in his attempt to close in on Bayliss s all conquering 1098R. The big veetwins seemed to be doing it easily although Max Biaggi s Ducati joined Corser s Yamaha in the list of DNF s for the day. Monday morning saw riding in fog on our way home via Victoria s south-east coast, although once the fog had lifted the scenery on the way to our overnight stop at Bermagui was quite picturesque. The only part that was spoilt was at Cann River where the Victoria police saw fit to harass everyone on a motorcycle. What a farewell from the state of Victoria! Tuesday saw us heading to Batemans Bay where again the scenery was magic and the roads to our liking. That was until the 80km section of dirt on our way to Bathurst via Tuena from Crookwell. During that run I almost put my bike down. I made the mistake of crossing the loose raised centre mound whereupon I managed to entertain Con with a series wild fishtails before I finally gathered it all up. For me, it was quite scary. Con ultimately had his own drama when a screw cap came off a beer stubby in his top box. He didn t find out until we had made it to Bathurst night stop. Unfortunately at Bathurst, the road crews were out at Mount Panorama closing the circuit for repairs. We had planned to take pictures on the famous start-finish line, bugger!! Post Bathurst saw us heading towards Nabiac via Lithgow and the world renowned Wiseman s Ferry. Again the roads provided some splendid scenery, twistery and a unique experience of us bikers using the ferry. An unnamed smart arsed Triumph owner reckoned that the ferry would have to take the ST s one at a time in order to avoid sinking! At Bilpin where we had our morning coffee, some of us made the decision to buy various jams and chutneys to present to our wives on our arrival home. This was to haunt Con yet again! A brief stopover at Umina where Braddo met up with some of his family and then it was on to Nabiac for an overnight stay and then a visit to the motorcycle museum located there. Boy, do they do they some stuff there, about three large sheds full of various bikes and bits of bikes. It was at Nabiac where Con discovered the lid of his jam jar had worked loose spreading jam inside his top box. What a combination, beer and jam in the top box. We all reckoned he was trying to make a new kind of fruit salad. The next day saw us do us a long ride nearly 650km. Our first stop, albeit a brief was at Gloucester and then across the very scenic Barrington Tops and up Thunderbolt s way to Walcha, Uralla, Glen Innes for lunch and finally resting overnight at Tenterfield. The final day of the trip saw us leave a cool and foggy Tenterfield at about 7 0 C according to the bike s thermometer. The fog almost accompanied us to Toowoomba, the city of retired old fart farmers driving around with their hats on too tight. At Crows Nest, north of Toowoomba, breakfast was taken on and I lead our group on a fast run to Ban-Ban Springs narrowly missing out on hefty fine at Goomeri only because I got stuck behind a slow car coming in to town. There is obviously credence to the notion that if you don t want to be caught speeding you should play it safe and follow a Ford. From Ban-Ban Springs we all pulled our heads in realising that it is often on the very last stage of the journey where most accidents happen. This final leg of the trip saw us old fartz behave ourselves and we made it home safely. We had travelled some 5200km for the round trip in ten days with no one actually crashing or experiencing any serious breakdowns. My own machine performed faultlessly with apparently nothing falling off it and everything still working as it should, even the newly installed xenon HID headlamps! Bruce Grove The Hot Rod Show Bob Sonter was kind enough to invite some of us to the hot rod show on Sunday 23 March at the Showgrounds. His kindness extended to also inviting us to collect signatures on his petition to gain support in establishing a driver education training track in Bundaberg. The outcome was that Bob, who happened to be in Rockhampton at the time, ended up with some 450 signatures and a few of his friends ended up with sunburn and a deeper appreciation of the dedication hotrodders have to their machines. There were some beauties there! 5

6 The gravedigger was clearly a working man s machine Well done, Bill on your efforts in working the gate and getting so much support form local people who were generally very supportive. Lyn having her picture taken taking a picture We saw Bruce s growing up place Savage-vale and learnt that he knew his way around that area. Bill s persuasive ways had people signing on the line The stop at the servo on the way home certainly impressed Ron. Just look at the picture below and you can only imagine Ron drooling. Thursday 27March There were the usual suspects but some newbies too who were most welcome. We had joining us Nathan and Jen on the Triumph Daytona. Jen had celebrated her birthday on Wednesday and Nathan had agreed to take her on his bike to celebrate. This bike is really bright blue - really! a M109R. Yum! After seeing Ron recover from the drools and getting him back on his Roadie we all headed off home after a friendly and fun excursion around the area. That s Nathan and Jen on the left front. We had with us Paul E, Tony, Ron W, Bruce, Brian, Ron and Lyn. The ride headed to Woodgate for morning tea and through Knockroe Road to the Isis Mill and onto Tirroan Hotel for lunch. We had a great time and shared all the silly stories and learnt a bit more about each other. Cycle Ride 29 March Five enthusiastic cycle riders met at the car park near River Cruz on Sunday morning 30 th March to take part in the annual cycle ride from city to surf at Burnett Heads. Colleen and Peter Baker had camped at The Heads so they rode in before it started just to warm up and they took the challenge to do the 40 km ride which included the hill over the Hummock. The other three, Peter, Nick and Margie rode the 20 km ride in fine style. We set off about two thirds of the way back in the pack but I understand Nick rolled in as the nineteenth across the line. Great effort Nick, especially when you ve only had the bike a few weeks, not that it was a race, just showing his competitiveness. After our sausage sizzle and prizes given out Peter and Nick decided they hadn t ridden far enough so promptly turned around and rode back to Bundy. We went as the Ulysses team so next year perhaps we will have a few more participants with logos etc. People often say they couldn t ride that far but apparently four four year olds completed the 20 km ride. Margie 6

7 Saturday 29 and Sunday 30 March Apex Poker Run, Murgon It was wet but it was always going to be on. Graham W and his son-in-law, David, Bill, Ron, Paul C were to meet Ian L at Murgon. The rain appeared to be inconsistent when we left around 8.00am while it promised fine weather in Murgon. After meeting Paul C at Childers, Ron headed off early to get through the twisties with camper in tow and others would soon catch up. Well, it turned out to be sooner than we thought. Ron came upon a biker who was heading to Childers but had broken down. Soon Bill and others were on the scene and all concluded that little could be done and the broken down rider was already calling the RACQ. Soon, we were away but not for long. About 2 kilometres down the road, a car had parked itself immaculately between two trees. Two young ladies were alighting in a somewhat shaken state. Their ute had blown a tyre, spun across the road on a sweeping corner and come to rest neatly between two trees after leaping a large ditch. All of this done in reverse. After ascertaining that the driver and her passenger were only shaken and physically in good shape, it was clear we could do little. We suggested they too call the RACQ as they would need a tow truck to lift them from their delicate parking spot. The skid marks on the wet road showed the extent of their wayward travels. It also caused our group to consider the fact that we too may have been in that spot at that time if it had not been for the previous biker breaking down. The next thoughts for most of us was how lucky we were not to be in the way of the slipping and sliding ute. We hope the ladies are okay and all has worked out for them. But now to the real ride.. We arrived at Murgon around am in time to set up and register for the poker run. We travelled from Murgon, leaving at midday and on to Nanango Bowls club for the first stop. Here Graham pocketed a fuel voucher as a prize. Next on to Maidenwell and more random raffles. Good fun so far and lots of sweet bikes to peruse and interesting people to chat to. From Maidenwell it was on to Yarraman where we had a break and another card. Not much chance so far of any one of us collecting the prize. From Maidenwell on through Kingaroy to a the Grand Hotel at a small spot near Wondai. And then finally home to Murgon around 5.00 pm for the last card. Our hopes of winning rested with Ron who held a pair of aces and a pair of sixes. However, the winner had a straight and collected the money. The ride was around 230 kilometres but lots of fun and good country. The evening was good fun with great live music for the select few who stayed or camped over. It was really an excellent night with good value food and drinks and nothing to spoil the evening. The sun arose, we think. It was hard to see anything through the dense fog. The evening had been chilly but the day promised to be a beauty. We listened to Paul C regale us with his stories of being kept awake by the snoring which he assures us was akin to duelling chainsaws. After the complaining, which seemed to continue for a while, he got stuck into breakfast to lead the ride home. Bill managed to regain his composure after obviously eating something disagreeable the previous night. It had to be the food!!!!! Pardon, I hear you say. Graham headed off to Brisbane, Ian kept us all moving and David continued his duel with his Ducati. We arrived home to the convoy of trucks heading through town. Now. All who attended agreed that we have to get a few more there next year. It was fun, well organised and good facilities and music. And an excellent ride. 220 kilometres there. 230 kilometre poker run and 220 kilometre home. Put the last weekend in March 2009 in your diary! Ron Ross and Bev Thiele are having a ball somewhere! As I prepared for the meeting of 1 April I received a call from Ross and Bev. They story which Ross was able to share in his own way was simply that they are having a ball. It was happy hour and the message was being delivered amidst lots of laughter and frivolity. They were however camped at Tathra ( I think) near Bega and had been to places as diverse as Moree, Yamba, Tamworth and the Gold Coast. They experienced 2 degree temperatures at Eucumbene in the Snowy Mountains. And they were hoping to make Wyandra near Cunna-bloody-mulla for Anzac Day via Broken Hill. The key message was We re having a ball!!! I did accept their apology for meeting. I wonder if they will ever come back? Ron 7

8 I understand that congratulations are in order for Peter Baker s election to the role of councillor to the North Burnett Regional Council. Well done, Pete. Locals must appreciate your efforts. Best of luck in your continuing but expanded role. Outcomes of Meeting 1 April 2008 A great turn out considering it was the first day of April with around 55 present during the meeting. New comers were welcomed. This included Tony Olsen and we welcomed back Gayle and Dave. Reisha and Peter were also welcome guests. A visit to Rabbi led to Ron reporting that Rabbi was dealing vigorously with his health issues and all wished him well. (I am happy to report that I visited Rabbi in the Princes Alexandra Hospital on Friday 4 April. His eyes have stabilised but not improved any and he seemed satisfied with his battle with his other health matters. Ron) He expressed his deepest appreciation for our support and asked me to convey his sincere thanks to all. Bob Benders wrist or arm is on the improve and he can feel a ride coming on. Finances Our financial situation is solid with a current balance of $ Raffle An electric massager, kindly donated by Cathy and Neil Fritz, was raffled and then won by Alex Jenkins. Well done, Alex. Initial reports are of a profit of $140 from the raffle. Thanks all for your participation. New Rides Bruce Lavender reported that he very happy with his new very green Kawasaki VN 900. Good on ya, Bruce. Ride Reports There were lots of these and all are reported on in the early part of this newsletter. Ride Calendar The rides were clarified and all new rides are now accounted for in the calendar at the back of this newsletter and will be on our websites soon if not already there. Watch for the specials this coming weekend the bra clipping and the ride to Windsong. Please note that the ride to Gayndah on Sunday 27 April now includes lunch at the Mundubbera bakery which will offer a range of lunches including burgers and sandwiches at reasonable prices. Thanks Chris for offering that flexibility. The meeting closed at 7.35 pm. Thanks to Lyn and Woody for their taking notes; to Pyro Pete for his ticket selling and Hendo for his financial management. And to all for your contribution. BUNDABERG & DISTRICT BRANCH ANTIQUE MACHINERY RESTORATION SOCIETY QLD Inc.proudly presents YESTERYEAR RALLY Tegege Hall & Football Grounds (off Rosedale Road approx 25klms North of Bundaberg)12TH & 13TH APRIL 2008 Sat 9.00am & Sun 9.00am 1.00pm Adults $3.00 (lucky gate prize) primary school children free Tractor pull & novelty events Sleeper cutting, engine displays Old cane machinery displays Bush tucker demonstration Grand parade, corn cracking Old engines, tractors, trucks, cars, bikes, Ploughing the Past-with working horses & tractors Old wares and memorabilia Face painting, jumping castle, merry go round If you interested in attending and would like to go with other Ulyssians please contact Keith Wenham on Press Release: Sunday, March 23, 2008: Safety for motorcyclists targeted as part of $54m program Motorcyclists can look forward to safer riding conditions thanks to a motorcycle safety initiative that is part of the $54 million Safer Roads Sooner program. Main Roads Minister Warren Pitt said the motorcycle safety targeted action program would be used to identify, analyse and address roads showing a high crash rate for motorcyclists. He said a total of $1 million, spread over two years, would be invested in the program. "The recent increase in the rate of motorcycle crashes, particularly on recreational routes in southeast Queensland, has been alarming virtually doubling over the last five years," Mr Pitt said."while a variety of factors contribute to this, including driver behaviour issues, Main Roads is committed to providing as forgiving a road environment as possible in the event of a crash. "The program will be a proactive one, in which Main Roads will use experienced riders to help audit stretches of road with high motorcycle crash rates, and plan and implement appropriate treatment works." The motorcycle safety program is among 90 new high priority projects announced in the latest round of Safer Roads Sooner funding, which aims to reduce the road toll and the huge social and financial impacts of road trauma. The projects, funded by $31 million in red light and speeding camera fines and an extra $23 million from the Queensland Government, were approved by the Safer Roads Sooner Advisory Committee. "The Safer Roads Sooner program is about creating better roads for Queensland. It is aimed at addressing the road toll and reducing the number of 8

9 people who sustain serious injuries in road crashes,'' Mr Pitt said. "Through this program, fines collected from motorists caught doing the wrong thing are going straight back into life-saving road improvements." "No sister, the paper says it was the ' Sahara Pipeline' that was laid by 1400 men in 6 months. More of Cania Gorge Weekend Media contact: Minister Pitt s Office Editor s note: I have flicked a short personal to the Minister s Office thanking him for at least not blaming bikers for all motorcycle accidents. Short Love Story A man and a woman who had never met before, and were both married to other people, found themselves assigned to the same sleeping room on a transcontinental train. Though initially embarrassed and uneasy over sharing a room, they were both very tired and fell asleep quickly... He in the upper bunk and she in the lower. At 1:00 AM, the man leaned down and gently woke the woman saying,"ma'am, I'm sorry to bother you, but would you be willing to reach into the closet to get me a second blanket? I'm awfully cold." "I have a better idea," she replied. "Just for tonight, let 's pretend that we're married." "Wow! That's a great idea!" he exclaimed. "Good," she replied. "Get your own fucking blanket." After a moment of silence, he farted. The End It Can t be True! Three Italian nuns die and go to heaven. At the Pearly Gates, they are met by St Peter. He says, "Sisters, you all led such exemplary lives that the Lord is granting you six months to go back to earth and be anyone you wish to be. The first nun says, "I want to be Sophia Loren;" and *poof* she's gone. The second says, "I want to be Madonna and *poof* she's gone. The third says, "I want to be Sara Pipalini.." St. Peter looks perplexed. "Who?" he asked "Sara Pipalini;" replies the nun. St. Peter shakes his head and says, "I'm sorry, but that name just doesn't ring a bell." The nun then takes a newspaper out of her habit and hands it to St. Peter. St Peter reads the paper and starts laughing. He hands it back to her and says... Please Note: We have in the ride calendar a ride to Calliope Markets on Sunday 4 May. This is being organized by Hendo and has an early start of 7.00 am. This ride will be on only if he has sufficient starters. Please call Hendo on and let him know if you are interested and he will keep those people who call him informed as to whether the ride is on or cancelled. Don t forget to let him know! 9

10 Date Claimers Ulysses Club th May 1 st June 2008 Yes we are hosting the 2008 Ulysses Club National and have already started working on the Nuts & Bolts of planning for your arrival. The venue is to be the Show Grounds located in the suburb of 'West End' with ample space for camping and the provision of many powered sites. This facility is within walking distance of a major shopping complex that has two Supermarkets as well as all manner of other shops and eateries, and all in air-conditioned comfort. The city also caters for those not disposed toward camping, with a large selection of motel/hotel/ caravan park accommodation throughout the area. Remember you are coming to the Tropics up here so expect temperatures to be in the mid to high 20's during the day and somewhere in the mid to low 10's at night. We are looking forward to seeing as many of you as possible up here in 2008 and will try to keep you updated as planning and time permits. Peter Morrison Coordinator pmo31829@bigpond.net.au Hosted by Branch (QLD) Refer to website: for more information. Some Others to Bear in mind for 2008 MAY??23 rd -24 th MOREE MUSTER, MOREE, Cotton Country Cruisers, Cathy RUPTURED BUDGIE RALLY, Moto Guzzi Club, Mingoola NSW Friday 13 th June - Friday 13 th at Theebine - Wayne or wayne@flyfinshhownunder.co Bums on Bikes - October Ulysses Club Memorial Ride - September September 19 th International Talk Like a Pirate Day the Fritzes. Movember fundraising opportunity during November What about the regular blood drives every second month or so? Our Tennis Classic at Wimbledon time? Ay suggestions. May meeting FOR SALE Contact Warren Smith (Ph ) Honda Shadow VT 750 road, 2002, black, Corbin seat, original exhaust pipes, approx. $3000 extra chrome, regd 07/08, VGC, $8200. Ph Yamaha Vmax 1200, 1985, VGC, low kms, Vboost, very quick, white, tow bar, regd 09/08, $6800. Ph Camper trailer for motorbike, Aluminium frame with strong canvas, sleeps one person, 30L fuel tank, power, radio, CD player, lights, regd 11/08, $5800 Ph FOR SALE 2000 Model Suzuki SV 650S klms. Well maintained and goes very well. Near new tyres front and rear. $5000 Contact Dave Morphew Yamaha RZ Project Bike New battery good tyres. Needs work. All parts available with bike $650 Contact Dave Morphew

11 SOCIAL AND RIDE CALENDAR COFFEE GATHERINGS RIDES/SOCIAL EVENTS MEETING PLACE RIVER CRUZ CAFÉ RIVERSIDE PARKLANDS 6.00 pm for 6.30 start Come a bit early, enjoy a meal and a chat at River Cruz Cafe. Tuesday 6 May pm gather for 6.30 pm start Tuesday 3 June pm gather for 6.30 pm start STARTING PLACE FOR RIDES RIVER CRUZ CAFÉ RIVERSIDE PARKLANDS Gather at 8.30 am (generally) to leave from River Cruz Café at 9.00 am with some exceptions noted Saturday 12 April Rob Bauer is organising a Bra Hookup at 77 Walker Street opp Mobil Servo All are welcome to help him achieve his chain of bras pm start. Sunday 13 th April Windsong on the Bruce Highway Leader and Contact: Ian on Depart at 9.30 am Sunday 27 th April Burnett Region to Mundubbera and environs Chris Griffin to lead. Ph Lunch with a range of offerings from hamburgers to sandwiches at the Mundubbera Bakery.. Depart 9.30 am Ph Each Thursday Mid-week OMO, leaves 10am, Contact Sunday 4 May Calliope Markets. This is 7.00am departure if numbers are sufficient. Please contact Hendo on if you would like to go so that Hendo can ascertain the level of interest and confirm that the ride is on. Sunday 11 May Ride to Gayndah Contacts Ian Lawley / and Bill Lumsden Depart 9.30 am 26 May 1 June List of people attending and their current intentions has been distributed with this newsletter to those involved. Each Thursday Mid-week OMO, leaves 10am, contact Sunday 8 June Daniel Morecombe Ride Contact James Parrott Details later Friday 13 June Function at the Theebine Hotel. Ian Lawley is organising. There is only one Friday 13 in 2008 Sunday 29 June Ride to Many Peaks to join fellow Ulyssians from Rockhampton and Gladstone Final details next newsletter. Contact and ride leader - Owen Mitchell or

12 A P R I L Calendar of Events Mon 31 Mar Tues 01 Apr Wed 02 Apr Thurs 03 Apr Fri 04 Apr Glasshouse Mtns Valley Rally Drums or Mon 07 Apr Tues 08 Apr Wed 09 Apr Thurs 10 Apr Mon 14 Apr Tues 15 Apr Wed 16 Apr Thurs 17 Apr Mon 21 Apr Tues 22 Apr Wed 23 Apr Thurs 24 Apr Mon 28 Apr Tues 29 Apr Wed 30 Apr Thurs 1 May Mon 5 May Tues 6 May Wed 7 May Thurs 8 May Mon 12 May Tues 13 May Wed 14 May Thurs 15 May Mon 19 May Tues 20 May Wed 21 May Thurs 22 May Mon 26 May Tues 27 May Wed 28 May Thurs 29 May Mon 2 June Tues 3 June Wed 4 June Thurs 5 June Mon 9 June Tues 10 June Wed 11 June Thur 12 June Fri 11 Apr Sat 05 Apr Glasshouse Mtns Valley Rally Drums or Rebel FM Pigs Arse Poker Run Sat 12 Apr Bra Hook Up 1.00 pm 77 Walker Street - opp Mobil Contact Rob Bauer Sun 06 Apr Glasshouse Mtns Valley Rally Drums or Sun 13 Apr Club Ride Windsong Ian and Bill Fri 18 Apr Sat 19 Apr Sun 20 Apr Fri 25 Apr ANZAC day Sat 26 Apr Sun 27 April Ride the Burnett Region with Chris Griffin. Ph Fri 2 May Sat 3 May Sun 4 May Calliope Markets with Hendo Deprt at 7.00 am Please contact Hendo to confirm ride Fri 9 May Sat 10 May Sun 11 May Ride to Gayndah with Ian and Bill Fri 16 May Sat 17 May Sun 18 May Fri 23 May Sat 24 May Sun 25 May Fri 30 May Sat 31 May Sun 1 June Fri 6 June Sat 7 June Sun 8 June Daniel Morecombe ride Contact James Parrott Fri 13 June Sat 14 June Sun 15 June Black Friday event Theebine Hotel Contact Ian Forward notice 29 th June to Many Peaks with Gladstone and Rockhampton Groups. Owen is organising. 12