Williams Landing to Williamstown via Altona

Ride on 18 January 2019

On an overcast day 17 OYB cyclists gathered at Williams Landing. Following Penny, we rode through a few side streets then reached the Skeleton Creek where we could enjoy the beautiful serenity the trail had to offer. Unfortunately, Penny needed to leave us due to a previous injury that was causing her distress and Jonno was conscripted to the task.

 We continued south along the Skeleton Creek Trail to the H2O monument and then turned eastwards along the Bay Trail through the Cheetham Wetlands where we visited the lookout at Truganina Park. There we gained a wonderful view of the threatening weather approaching. 

 As we descended the hill the rain began. Continuing over Laverton Creek we searched for the Siberian duck that had been reported in the area having overshot its regular territory by thousands of kilometres. Unfortunately, we were unsuccessful and arrived at coffee in Altona a bedraggled mob. 

 Most of us decided to end the ride at that stage as the weather was becoming increasingly unfriendly. A few of the stout hearted were prepared to continue the ride to Williamstown. Suddenly an explosion of thunder shook the earth and the heavens opened. Thereupon a couple of additional riders decided to take the train back while seven were prepared to wait for the weather to turn. Having been drenched, a sensible pair did some shopping for dry clothes to enjoy the return journey. I’m sure they were more comfortable than the rest of us.

The intrepid seven continued to ride through a bit more rain and by the time they parted ways at Costco in the city had done 39km.

Jonno

Essendon to Capital City Trail

Ride on 11 January 2019

Nine of us arrived at Essendon for our ride on Friday, and it was great to welcome two visiting riders and a returning member. 

 The first part of this ride was new to most of our group. We undulated our way on a navigationally easy route along the quiet back streets of Essendon to emerge at the high point above the Maribyrnong River – the Lily Street Lookout. 

 Here we lounged about admiring the city in the distance and the river and old munitions factory in the foreground. There was some discussion about whether Lily Street is the highest point in Melbourne, but this title goes to another OYB destination, Mt Cooper. Still you can see from the pictures below that it is pretty high up, and has great views. 

 Thank you to Rodney and Kevin for leading the ride along the riverbank. First Rodney led us to the Boathouse for fine coffee and victuals. Then Kevin took over to get us to the bridge leading over to the old sale yards and abattoir near Flemington. The majestic river was exceptionally still and glassy with wonderful reflections. 

 The final stage of the ride through the sale yards was unfamiliar to some of our rides and we stopped at the murals under Epsom St (shade!!!!) for a break before heading on our new less steep route to the Capital City Trail. Here our party split into two groups – Clifton Hill/Fitzroy and City/Richmond/Abbotsford.

A ride with great views,

Penny.