sadsacnews: TRAMPS: Boolarra - Dumbalk 18 November

After a short delay caused by rain and hail 16 keen riders took to the Western Strzeleki Ranges for what promised to be a most enjoyable ride. The club boasted 3 new members for the ride, namely Eric,Darrel and Morris.
The initial climb up the Limonite Road was steady but not onerous. After a brief stop at the Grand Ridge Road it was into the tuck for the high speed descent to Mirboo. The 40 kph roadworks speed limit towards the bottom would have drawn a significant fine had the radar gun been out.
Along the way to lunch there was some comment about the squeaky wheel getting the most oil. But in the case off the squeaky black beauty, as the commandant no doubt like it to be called, the support vehicle's dipstick barely provided a drop. The vehicle was given a much earned drink of oil over lunch.
Lunch was enjoyed in rather pleasant surroundings as the park and facilities at Dumbalk had just been renewed. Poppy-seed cake and chocolate muffins ensured the riders were most satisfied.
The refuel for the riders was put to good use as the climb out of Dumbalk was considerable. The lovely views of the valley seemed to go on and on. The run along the ridge on the way to Mirboo North also had some good views but the final climb into town turned out to be the most testing of the day. After a refresh at the park the run back to Boolarra included the enjoyable run down through the valley before the final drop to the finish.
Of note was the significant fitness improvement of some of the club members about to tackle the Great Vic. No doubt some serious training has been happening even since the last ride. Because half the club members are signed up for the 9 day event I expect numbers will be significantly reduced on the next club ride.
In the end however it was left to coffee and chips to round off the day.