Jeff's Shed to Sandringham via the Beach

Ride on 16th August 2019

We had eleven riders today. I was tricked into leading the ride by a certain person - nameless - which I was not keen to do as my sense of direction is not very sound but at least I knew the route to Sandringham. Though the weather was not looking good when I left home, when we got to Jeff's Shed there was bright sunshine. And it proved a glorious day for riding along the bay. The beach was very calm, very blue and all the riders enjoyed the beautiful weather. We took the usual bayside trail to Sandringham where we arrived at 11.30 and then lunch at the Sandy Pub was its usual deliciousness and always reasonably priced. By the end of the meal however, the heavens opened up on us so we stayed a little to see if it would pass but no, unfortunately! So we had to retreat to the station and take the train back home. We only got a few drops wet!
Thanks to you all for trusting my dodgy directions to lead. And hope Brett you enjoyed the group too.

Paul

Special note: Paul’s sense of direction was perfect!

Thomastown to Alphington via Darebin Creek

Ride on 2 August 2019

Twenty-one intrepid riders spilled from the train at Thomastown, eager to tackle the challenge of the Darebin Creek trail on a winter’s morning. We departed in two groups, the second led by Ross, as one of our riders was delayed at Caulfield by a train too crowded to take his bike. 

The ride unfolded in a leisurely fashion, everyone managing to reject the blandishments of well-marked side paths, any one of which would have led the unwary into the labyrinth of the outer northern suburbs. Trailside scenery, after recent rain, was picture postcard perfect: rich rolling grasslands, and sparkling eucalypts declaring their readiness for summer. Without mishap, both groups reached a very welcoming Northland food court and rendezvoused over coffee. From there a further half-hour’s pedalling brought us to Alphington station and the official end of the ride. People continued on their various ways by train or bike to points west and south.

Thanks to all who made this yet another most enjoyable OYB outing. Special thanks to Ross for leading the second group, to Peter for diligent sweeping, and to Jonno for crucial pointing on a couple of occasions.

Bob