Jeff's Shed to Williamstown via the Punt

Ride on 24th January 2019

Just imagine us riding to the Yarra for a sausage sizzle in 43 degree temperatures today!!! 

Of course, instead of this, five of us beat the heat by riding early yesterday. We started at Jeff's Shed looking across the river while one of us took artistic pictures of the reflections. Then it was along to Station Pier and Sandridge Beach. Once we passed the passengers disembarking from their liner, there were only a few other people out and about as we rode along the serene beach. 

A short ride on the landscaped path alongside Todd Road took us into Westgate Park where we stopped off to admire the lake and laugh at those people travelling bumper to bumper across the Westgate Bridge. Instead of the bridge, we crossed the Yarra on the punt – much more pleasurable. It is good to see that the punt is very popular in peak periods. 

Heading down to Williamstown, we decided to try out a member's suggestion of riding out to Sandy Point. It has been fenced off and is home to water birds and views. Well worth a visit for a small group of riders. The next detour was the Ferguson Street pier. Three of us went to the end to check out the views there.

By this time we were hanging out for breakfast. It was delicious.

We all decided to catch the train home. A wise decision as, during the trip home, the temperature increased at a great rate.

Thanks to all who joined me for summer riding. It made the experience much more enjoyable. And thanks to all those who helped on our rides.

Penny.

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