sadsacnews: TRAMPS: Morwell - Newborough 29July

Well, surprise surprise this Morwell ride went where I thought it might, well almost, more on that later.
Fortunately, the weather forecast was a bit more pessimistic than reality for the good sized group that assembled for the challenging course ahead. We headed off in cool but fine conditions but were soon overtaken by a second group, namely the Traf Team. As it turns out this is not the first time a group encounters us near the end of their ride as we are just starting ours, they must be early risers. Being courteous we let them go on ahead.
Back on our ride we took a short break at the start of the main climb to rearrange our clothing. It was then off on the 180m ascent. A couple of riders were not ready to stop half way up the climb so I went with them to the Lilleys Road intersection. Having seen the first group through, and keen to climb this hill for the first time, I joined the group. The climb, in parts 15% ( from Peter) felt almost as steep as the climb in the next valley to Narracan Falls. Waiting at the top for the rest, muffled calls of a group overshooting the corner reminded me that I had been corner marshal, sort of. This is a good reminder for all that not everyone knows the way, even if they have a map. By the time we arrived at Narracan the skies had opened a bit but two bus shelters were on hand to assist. The run down the valley was, as expected, the best part of the ride but we were soon back in civilization, having crossed the freeway and into Newborough.
We had the luxury of a shelter shed for lunch, although the facilities did not extend to chairs and tables.
The catering officer, Tim, had once again excelled with his creations. Only someone with a sugar allergy would have been disappointed. Well done Tim.
During lunch, negotiations were underway for a shortened return due to some riders feeling off colour. It was decided to return via the shortest route i.e. the freeway. This was the first, and possibly the last, run along the freeway for the group. While we have traffic passing us at speed on the open road, just the noise of two lanes of traffic passing at around 100kph is something else. We also managed to get 3 punctures over a distance of less then 9km. The slightly longer (by 2km) route via Haunted Hills/Marretts Road on reflection may have been a nicer way to end the ride. Something to consider. But overall a good day out.
P.S. Puncture count increased to four after home inspection- Ann's front tyre.