Social Events



Bellata Breakfast Run - 4 Dec '11

We had 17 riders in total (12 members and 5 non members) go for the breakfast run and they are very good numbers, so a big "thank you" to everyone who went.  The weather was good, the ride was fantastic, and the breakfast was slow...but enjoyable.

The Bear was on Spanner Man’s Vulcan ( more on that later ) and the usual stuff happened, you know .... plenty of stories, lots of laughter and heaps of bullshit.

Nagz was showing how his new air shocks worked on the rear end of his bike, ”well, just showing off”.   Nagz, maaate, you don’t ride for a good time, you ride for a “gay” time!

The Twins were bike swapping on the way home, and in case you don’t know who they are, Nagz and Giggles, you work out which one is Arnold and which one is Danny.

And yes, of course, the Bear copped heaps for riding the Vulcan, but I must say in the Vulc’s defence, that it performed exquisitely.  It was very comfortable, handled well for a big and heavy bike.  It was so smoooth and I enjoyed riding the Vulcan so much that I might sell Harley and buy a Vulc.  A big "thank you" from me to Spanner Man.

Nagz and Giggles, the Twins, you guys have got me worried, you really have.  Well, I guess it must be me because I’m not tuff,  as you have to be  f+#k!*g  tuff to drink pink milk.

Suzie rode her bike up from Narrabri.  God love her, she has 2 buggered hands, a bad leg and a slipped disc in her back, so I say to the Twins "that is what I call “tuff”....

While I’m on the subject of Suzie, she wore a new pair of radiator jeans to Bellata.  Suzie, I hope they don’t spring a leak,  love... you know ... from the valve.

Rab’s, when I say we leave at 7.30am, mate that is NSW time, not QLD time.

So, to finish this ride report I would like to say once again, "thank you" to every one who went on this Bellata Breakfast Run.  The numbers were fantastic.

The Bear.




Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

The Toy Run - 3 Dec '11


The 2nd annual Toy Run was held on Saturday, and was a great success.

We collected over 200 toys and the Salvation Army is more than impressed by the count.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank all riders who turned up on the day to help with the run. Good to see so many turn up.

A very big thanks must go to Tammy Nagle, who has put in a tremendous effort helping to organise the run.  "thanks Tammy".  Please forget all the little things I said, just joking, I think.

Also "thanks" to all the businesses that took part and for making our day the success it turned out to be.

And a big "thank you" has to go to Woolworths, Legg's Butchery, The Salvation Army and volunteers and also Annies Bakery for making it possible to have the sausage sizzle as part of our Toy Run.

And I think Mitchell makes a very mean Santa, great job, mate.

Looks like it might become an annual event, so I'm looking forward to seeing more at the next one.

Thanks again,  Philo




Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Lake Keepit Dam - 22/23 October

Well, eight of us left Thomas Lee Motorcycles on Saturday and made our way towards Lake Keepit.  The first stop was Narrabri so Hoofla could get fuel as he rode down from St George that morning.

It was a beautiful day for riding, the sun was shining and a cool breeze was in our face, as we left it was good to hear the rumble of the Harleys .... music to our ears, so play that again boys.

Next stop was Gunnedah, and yes, Hoofla had to get fuel again so we all toped up, then it was off to Woollies for Bear Juice, Jim Beam, Turkey, Baileys, Beer and Wine.

Lunch was had in the rotunda opposite Woollies as we waited for the Gunnedah boys and girls. 

We had seven turn up from Gunnedah and this was my first time that I rode with 3 brothers who are all  members of the Ulysses Club.  Congratulations Nagz, Mick and Tony.  I wonder how many other brothers have achieved this,  or sisters ??  If you know of any please let me know.

The ride from Gunnedah to the Dam was quick and smooth and after checking in and unpacking, it was time for dip and biscuits and of course some alcoholic beverages to wash them down with.

Giggles and I borrowed 2 mattresses from Nagz and Hoofla and laid them down on Nagz's veranda and put our sleeping bags down and that’s where we slept.  I recon we had the best beds in the park with a cool breeze all night, no need to pitch a tent.

Hoofla’s wife, Dooma, was her usual cheeky self and that is good as it shows that she is getting used to us and settling in.  Just no photos without glasses on Dooma....you know what I mean.

Hoofla’s pink chair reminded me of the pink milk that Giggles was drinking ... "you go boys ... pink is tough" ... well I guess when you’re the size of Giggles you can drink what ever colour milk you want.

I would like to say "welcome" to John and Kath who joined us for the first time, so welcome and I hope you both ride with us again soon as we enjoyed your company.

Now, I don’t know if this is true or not but I’m going to tell you that someone told me that Nagz was eating a ice cream and guess what it was called ....... "GayTime" .... goes with the bike I suppose. 

While I’m on the subject of Nagz, I have to tell you this, and yes it’s true as I was there and heard him make this statement,  now it was late in the evening just before sunset and Nagz said ... "hey, look at those dolphins"  

Nagz, dolphins in Keepit Dam ??   Mate I don’t think so, but I’ll have whatever Nagz was drinking.

Getting back to Hoofla, I know I shouldn’t be saying anything about your legs as mine are like two twigs but ... your's are two twigs .... white and bandy and don’t look good in your, well how can I describe your shorts,  well let’s just say your Qld shorts ....  I’m glad they don’t sell them in NSW .... maaaaate ....

Now there were 2 guys sitting on Nagz's veranda and it was late in the night, and they looked like those 2 guys in the muppet show up in the top balcony, you know the 2 old guys, anyway it was overheard that they were commenting on the beautiful house boat that was moored just off shore and one of them said lets go and take that house boat for a ride. 

A few more bear juices and a few more Jim Beams and they decided it was not the right thing to do, but Sunday morning when they woke up and looked at the house boat they both looked at each other and one of them said .... "hey, that boat is a magical, it has turned into a caravan" .

Can you believe that .... and no, I won’t name Giggles and myself  ... OK !

Hoofla,  why did you have bruises on your wrists Sunday morning mate,  was it the hand cuffs??

Our mate Giggles has a new nickname .... Springer ..... don’t ask me why, ask Giggles....sorry I meant to say Springer.

Nagz was heard saying something about the serenity.  Mate I’ve never heard you say anything that big.  I think the biggest word I’ve heard you say was .... "corrugated iron" ... now I don’t know if you were trying to say that the dam was still and serene in the moon light or that the wench smiled serenely or maybe you used it in the context of which the word means calm and peaceful, but whatever you were trying to say, mate I’m proud of you .... well done.

Now, in closing this report I must ask one more question ..... wench, why was your mouth numb on Sunday morning????? hmmmmm.

Oh and before I forget, our mate Hoofla is buying his Harley ... well done...

Thank you to everyone who made the effort to go on this ride, and thank you for your company.

The Bear.




Breakfast in Bellata - 9 Oct

Yesterday, nine of us made our way to Bellata for breakfast, and it was a good day for a ride even if it was only a short ride.

There was Nagz, Tammie, Rabs, Jeanie, Col, Marg, Giggles, Flic and the Bear.

Once again the breakfast was lovely and the coffee was great, for those who had coffee.  Two of the biggest guys on the ride, Nagz and Giggles were drinking pink milk ! 

Giggles you're not turning gay are you??  I mean, I can understand Nagz drinking pink milk with the bike he rides but not you mate. 

Sorry Nagz, I’ve left you alone for a while now, so it’s your turn maaaate.

Talking about bikes, Giggles, your bike looks terrific mate ... money well spent.  It really stands out now .... great job ....  keep going and it could be as good as  Nagz’s bike.

Did I just say that about Nagz’s bike, noooooo . . . just thinking out aloud.  Now I'll have to give myself an uppercut for saying Nagz’s bike looks good, what was I thinking.

Anyway enough of that, for those of you that haven’t booked your camp site or tent or cabin at Lake Keepit,  I would suggest that you do it asap.  Don’t forget we go to Lake Keepit on the 22 October, just two weekends away which will go quiet quickly.

the Bear.




Blue's Festival at Cooya - 24/25 Sept

Well,  Blue's Festival in Cooya was just fantastic and those of us who went really enjoyed the weekend.

I would like to thank Paula for letting Rabs, Jeanie & I stay at her place on Friday night .... "thank you " .....

Now there was scarifier .. Rea .. Paula .. Rabs .. Jeanie .. and the Bear who made this trip and we will be  going again next year, this is a weekend not to be missed.

I would like to take this opportunity in welcoming  Paula Tait our newest member to the Cotton Country Cruisers Moree branch.  Paula, I know you will enjoy many a good ride with us.

For those of you who don’t know Paula, she resides in Goondiwindi  and is a keen  motorcyclist ..... so a big welcome Paula from all of us...

Don’t forget to make your bookings for the 22nd of October if you are going to Lake Keepit
as I know they are running out of cabins, but there is still plenty of camp sites left and a few tents with shearers beds in them, the Bear is taking his swag

You can contact Lake Keepit on ..... (02) 6769 7605

So remember without you the members and non members who go on these rides there would be no rides.  So Suzie and the Bear say a big "thank you" for making our job a lot more enjoyable.




Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

St George - 27/28 Aug

Hi, it’s the Bear,

The St-George week-end ride, ..... where do I start ??   Well, let me start by saying it was a F#@*ing good weekend, ...... great ..... fantastic ..... weekend.....

The heavens opened up for us as we waited for our last member to turn up, and yes you all know by now who it was ...... Rabs of course.  We had 8-members and 3-non members leave Thomas Lee Motorcycles in what you could only call  atrocious weather, but having said that the ride was still good.

Now please” bear” with me,  no pun on that word,  as this could take some time to finish this ride report as a lot did go down and I mean down

We were only 50 km from Moree when Burrie decided he had enough of vodka cruisers and started on the mud slides, and yes I mean mud slide as he failed to negotiate  a curve and went across to the wrong side of the road and over an embankment,  sliding in the mud. 

Suzie pulled over to stop and give Burrie a hand and to make sure he was all right, but as she stopped  her front wheel  was off the tar and on the grass and Yes, Suzie went down as well with her Guzzie on her leg.  The Bear stopped and went to help Suzie picking her Guzzie up with the help of Stoppa, thanks mate.

Now Suzie's done her ankle in,  hobbling across the road to Burrie, who was standing in the long grass and mud looking like a yowie, complained of sore legs but otherwise was OK.  His bike was a little worse of though, half a fairing gone, blinkers gone, but the main thing was that he wasn’t hurt too bad.

It took 4 of us to push Burrie’s bike up the muddy embankment and on to the road, and 40 minutes later, after removing the mud  from his bike, we were back on our bikes again and on our way to the Two Mile pub for lunch and to meet up with the Goondiwindi guys and girls.

Lunch was had and we were off again to St-George and it was still raining.  The 11 of us from Moree and Narrabri and the 10 from Gundy turned our group of riders into ....... and yes I know you all know your maths ....... 21 ..... which was great to see.

All went well for the rest of the ride to St-George, arriving at the Riverview Hotel/Motel where we were greeted  by Col, the owner of the pub. 

Soon we were settling  in to a few bear juices ... beers .... bourbon ... and what ever  Rab’s was drinking when we heard that rumbling that could only be a Harley coming into the back driveway ... then that awful sound of a bike going down.  Yes it was Captain Cosh, and he dropped it in the sand driveway.... F#*k

Here we go again .... picking his bike up ..... this made 3 bikes for me that I had to pick up in one outing...
”Not Happy Jan”
...but the Captain was alright with only his pride hurt.

Now..... we were back to some kind of normality, well for a few hours anyway, until the alcohol kicked in.  I recall Captain Cosh saying to me that he just saw a dingo in the pub and on closer inspection it turned out to be a fox terrier.  Good on ya Captain .... I’ll have what ever your drinking.  

Soon enough, it was time for dinner or tea what ever you prefer  to call it ... OK ...and of course it was the Bear's birthday .... again ... Suzie ... god love her ... made me a pecan pie which was exquisite, thanks love..

Also everyone bought me a beautiful bear mug for my bear juice, thanks guys and girls .... I broke that mug in for the rest of the night, and thanks for the bear day card that you all signed it will go on my shitta wall ..... for those of you who have seen my shitta wall you will know why I will put it there.

As the evening turned into night, the games were on, playing pool, well trying to play that is, everyone was in a good happy mood chatting and mingling with everyone and just having a great time. 

While we were standing around the fire drum talking, I overheard Scarifier say ..... "you know there is about $300,000 worth of bikes parked there", and when you think about it... he is right.  

The night was growing old and a few went to bed with a "good night" to everyone, and it wasn’t long after that  just about everyone retired for the night .... except for a few that is....

It was around 12.45am and most of us were in bed getting “banged”, and I do mean banged, as I thought my door was about to explode, and all the other doors in the motel as well..... just a few folk having fun....good on ya guy’s.....you were having fun.... nothing wrong with that ....

The night turned into morning very quickly and it was time for photo shoot. The bikes were parked out the front of the pub, all lined up .... photos were taken of bikes and all of us then it was time to depart St-George with half the group going one way and the other half going a different way. 

I would like to thank Hoofla, one of our members from St-George and his beautiful wife Deb for their ongoing support and their company on Saturday night ... it was great to catch up with you both again.

Now the ride home......here we go again......please forgive me I know this report is getting a bit long...... Nagz, Tammie, Burrie, Suzie, Mick, and the Bear decided we would go home via Tallwood, Goondiwindi, Moree & Narrabri.

Everything was going just great, the sun was shining, the temperature was good for a ride, you couldn’t ask for a better day ...... but to cut the story short ..... about 20 km from Gundy the Bear picked up a pillion in the form of a “roo”.

It was coming over my tank but somehow it went back down and under my front wheel, then got spat out and up the left hand side of the bike.  The damage to bike, well it's extensive and the damage to me, not too bad as it could have been worse.  Just some claw marks on right hand and a swollen left knee.  Otherwise good, and as I said it could have been worse if i had come off the bike but I kept it upright ... thank God. 

I would like to thank Suzie for fixing and bandaging my hand up...thanks  love...the WFU trophy has 4 of us in the running for this month.... no more nominees thanks ....

On closing this report I do apologise for the length of it, but as you can see a lot happened on this ride.

I would like to thank... Captain Cosh for turning up in St-George, mate no one expected you to be there as we know you are having  chemotherapy, so it was a great effort on your behalf ...... and on behalf of the Cotton Country Cruisers Moree Branch we wish you a quick return to the very best of health .......

I would also like to thank Colin Jeffcoat from the Riverview Hotel/Motel  in St-George for his usual pertinacity that he pursued to look after us .... thanks mate ... we will be back.....

And a big thank you to everyone from Gundy and Yelarbon.  It was great to catch up again, and to those whom I meet for the first time ... thank you ... it’s good to form new friendships.

And of course ... thank you Moree and Narrabri members and non members for your great company as always.

Lastly, just remember ..... without you the members and non members who go on these rides ........ there would be no rides ...... so we say a big thank you for making Bear’s and Suzie’s job a lot more enjoyable.

The Bear.
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Bellata - 14 Aug

Well it was another successful ride for the eight who came from Moree, and with another four joining us from Narrabri. Making 12 in total (6 members and 6 non members).

A bright dry day met us as we all got together at Cafe Omega, and what a group it was. We had some knee scratchers join us this week coming along to enjoy the run to Bellata. As well as a nubie on his hog, welcome Karan, hope you had a good time was nice to ride with you.

When 8 o'clock rolled round, off we went, heading down the now 110kph Newel Highway. What a glorious run it was, and while there were a few cars and trucks on the road but they didn't stop us from enjoying the beautiful morning weather.

We arrived at the BP to join up with Susie, Mick, Burrie and Paul and enjoyed a long chat and good food. Once we were fed and watered, and the tanks filled, we divided ranks with half deciding to go over the mountains to get home, while the rest went back via the Newel.

For those who came over the hill it was a fast paced run down the highway to Narrabri where we said "bye bye" to the gang, because from there we turned off to head over the top of the mountain, and what a great run it was.

Karan looked to have had a good time, keeping pace with Rabs, while Stoppa had a few seat issues to deal with. . . . .

Maybe a new seat will be on the cards!

Once at Bingara we enjoyed the hospitality of the Imperial Pub and a few games of pool, with some friends of the group who came in to say "hi".  As usual to we got chatting with some other bike riders who had crossed the mountian from Armidale and Gunnedah,checking out the custom jobs, and latest models. All to soon it was time again to head home.

But before we did, we stopped to take in the classic car festival in the park at Bingara, where we "oohhed and arrrghed" at the beauties, and ran into a few people we knew.

Then it was down the Warialda road, past all the moo cows till Pallie and the back road run home.   Sure is a great run through there.

We hope that we'll see you all there next time as the next trip is St George weekend. This sounds as if its going to be a fantastic one with bikes coming from all over to meet up and have a social chat and ride in the beautiful surrounds of St George.

So don't forget if you haven't got your accommodation booked then you better get a move on. Don't want to miss out on this one.

Till next time folks keep the rubber side down and the paint up......
 
Jeanie for The Bear
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Nundle Weekend ~ 16/17 July


Well, it was a miserable wet day as we left Thomas Lee Motorcycles and I didn’t know if it was thunder, or the rumbling of the Harleys as we left,  but one thing I did know our destination was Nundle.

Five of us left Moree and we picked up Con and Robyn from Coona.  Great to see you two on a ride with us,... and I understand you can only do the rides when time permits....

Rabs was his usual  self, left the presents at home and had to go back to get them, good on ya Rabs!  Not much changes with you, does it mate.?

Jeanie was too embarrassed to let little “RJ”..ride on the back of bike, so she hid our little mate in the saddle bags.  Maybe next time Rabs, you should put Jeanie in the saddle bags....sounds good to me.

Stoppa had to do some running repairs to his bike as  his mirror kept falling off,... buy a Street Glide mate!....

We wasted 1 hour's precious time in Gunnedah and Tamworth, looking for a mobile phone for Jeanie.  We went to two Telstra shops and Jeanie tells us they have no phones.

Maybe next time we will try God’s open line and he might sing to you..... 

" telephone to Jeanie, it is so devine, here is your f!#%@n phone, pass it down the line..... "

or how ever that song goes....

Well, the bear juice was flowing late afternoon, about 3.30, as we settled in for the night as usual,  plenty of laughs..stories being told...a few jokes..and how’s that song go??

Most of the jokes were on “me”.. where is Nagz when you need him??  bloody hell mate !

“Con”, for a New South Welshmen, you like to keep the Qld economy going with all that XXXX beer you drink, but that’s OK you did end up on bourbon mate...proud of  ya

I heard Rabs say something like... "Hey Bear, 80 kilos of trout on the bike or Jeanie.... what do you think,? "

Well, my reply was simple.... "who’s going to cook the fish ?"  so he opted for 20 kilos of trout and take Jeanie home to do the cooking... good thinking Rabs.

Our meals were nothing short of excellent and our rooms were absolutely  fantastic.  Con and Robyn’s room was huge and their shower, well, you could fit 6 people in it.

All up I would recommend the Peel Inn Hotel to anyone who is thinking of going to Nundle, and next time you see Con, ask him about the 2  left hand side lamb shanks he ordered for dinner.  Very interesting story.

Robyn had about 5 hot chocolate and marshmellows drinks, well there goes the diet Robyn, you will have to walk about 20 kms tomorrow but who cares, you enjoyed them and that is the main thing.  And besides, who was counting....not me....

We had a great weekend but something was missing?   I finally worked it out it was the sound of the "gay” Soft Tail that is usually ...”behind”... me, with its tassels flapping in the wind, ... Nagz you didn’t make this ride mate but I know the reason why you and the wench were waiting for the phone call to let you know that you are going
to be grand parents.

Well,  I hope to see you all on our next ride which is.... July 31st to Bundara Pub for lunch, going via Bingara, Copeton Dam, Inverell, and leaving Cafe Omega at 8.30am sharp.

So remember... with out you, the members and non members,  who go on these rides there would be no rides, so we  say a "big thank you" for making Bear and Suzie’s job a lot  more enjoyable.

the Bear.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Bellata

On 3 July, we rode to Bellata for Breakfast.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Nindi-Gully Pub

 
On Saturday, 25 June, 7 members and  3 non members made our way to Nindi-gully Pub for the weekend. 
We also had 6 guys and 1 lady join us from Goondiwindi, so "thanks" for turning up on our ride.

As we left Thomas Lee Motorcycles, the sky was blue and the temperature was perfect for a great day’s ride.

We stopped at the Two Mile Pub for lunch as Rab's fishing bait (worms) was biting.

Nagz had a poker run operating with the winner being Tip Top Pete, our member from Inverell, and Tip Top kindly put it over the bar for everyone to enjoy  ..... so "thanks mate"

After 7 weeks grounded off my bike, I was really looking forward to the ride, but I only made it to Two Mile pub.    I was so worn out and tired when we got there, that Suzie took over and rode my bike the rest of the way to Nindi-gully, so "thanks Suzie" 

While I drove Suzie’s tin lid, it was good not to have to fight my bike and just relax.  Suzie also rode my bike back to Mungindi on the Sunday, where I took over, so once again, "thanks Suzie".

After arriving at the Nindi-gully pub, everyone got their rooms before heading off to the bar for some refreshing bear juice. 

A lot of stories were told...some great jokes....a lot of laughter and of course s@!#*t was put on Nagz’s gay bike.  Oh well someone has to ride a gay bike, so why not Nagz ??   "sorry mate".

There was a comment from Rabs that went something like this while playing pool or snooker or what ever it is with Nagz

"soft-tail,  soft-cock,  soft-shot"

Good one Rabs, I didn’t know you had it in you, but why you said it I don’t know, as Nagz won 7 games straight.

No one was game enough to try the Nindi-gully hamburger at $50-a burger ... it was a bloody big burger with about one and a half kilos of mince in it plus all the salad..... F@!%#*K.....

Burry & Tip Top Pete were at least game enough to try the mixed grill ....... big mistake boys.

Anyone who knows these two guys, knows how much they can eat.  Tip Top ate it all except for one sausage, while Burrie ate it all except for two sausages.   You two guys did bloody good

I believe there was a bit of commotion going on in one of the rooms Saturday night.  Something to do with a noisy bed, or  someone being murdered, or a ghost moaning through the night, what ever it was ..... Happy was not happy.....

Which reminds me of a song ... I think Captain and Teneil sang it .... if that’s how you spell her name, how’s it go? oh yes..

"do that to me one more time, I can’t get enough of a girl like you"

That’s enough of the song ..... all in all .... a great weekend, great company ... and a bloody great time had by all.
the Bear.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Bellata

Well it was another beautiful day when 8 riders and three passengers went for an early morning ride to the beautiful town of Bellata for a breakfast run.

The morning was brisk and the sun was out for short jaunt to the road stop cafe at Bellata, where we enjoyed good company and great food, and a few good laughs.

It was great to see Suzie and Burrie there too, Happy's skull bike got a few admiring looks as it graced the roadside cafes parking lot with one fellow even wishing it was his......

Thanks to all the riders who once again bought tickets in the raffle for the hospital before eating breakfast. As well as all the other early morning dinners at the Cafe. We now have each capital city represented in the raffle, so some one will be going for a good ride come the drawing should one of them be the winner.

Just on that, I hope all of you have tickets in the raffle for the television as it's to be drawn on the 30th at the Muster dinner, and if you haven't got your Muster tickets, then you better hurry up and registrar as places are starting to fill up and you wouldn't want to miss out now would you ...... hmmm

So don't be a stranger,  come and join the gang for our next ride.  To find out where and when contact Bear, the ride co-ordinator and enjoy your Sunday. (Ed. or look on the website)

See you there ...till later

Jeannie for Bear
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.




Newcastle AGM

Wednesday 23rd to Sunday 27th March 2011

On Wednesday, Suzie took off to Newcastle on her Guzzi with Tammie in tow in the tin-top.  I’m  told they had a good trip, so "well done" girls and I am proud of you both. 

Thursday saw Rabs and Jeanie, Hoofla from St George, Nagz, Zed and the Bear depart Moree for our journey to Newcastle. 

The day started perfectly for riding with blue skies and cool temperature.  I can still hear Nagz question ringing in my ears “do you know the way to Broadmeadow, Bear?”  

Of course I do, I lived there 35 years ago ......... it couldn’t change that much, could it?......

Our first stop was at Gunnedah, where Hoofla and Zed fuelled up and gave a quick "Hi" to Mick (Nagz’ brother) and we were off again. ( Oh ....and the Harleys didn’t need refuelling).

Across the Breeza, where eagles saw and the soil is rich and a few road kills to be seen, saw us roll into Willow Tree for a bite to eat and drinks.  Everyone refuelled except the Bear.  

On the road again (Hay that would make a good song), next stop was Muswellbrook to refuel and yes the Bear did fuel up this time, even though I still had 150k left in the tank.  What a machine - go the Street Glide (he is bragging). 

Cruising down the highway (Wild Hogs style), looking at the wildflowers in the paddock and at the ever changing landscape, made a beautiful ride. 

Enter Newcastle, and yes Nagz was still asking that question.  I notice something was flapping on Nagz bike so I pointed to it and he pulled over and stopped and asked what was wrong.  I told him his tassles were flapping in the breeze.  His reply was “you f......n mongrel, you stopped me for that....”. 

Arrived in Broadmeadow, Nagz led all the way.  Registered at the Ulysses office and then off to the campsite.  On arriving Suzie was waiting for us with the site already sorted out. We  made camp next to our Coona members Con and Robin.  The boys settled in with a few drinks while the Bear and Suzie went to Merewether for Chinese on the beach with Suzie’s sister and family. 

Friday -  Nagz, Tammie, Zed, Rabs and Jeanie, and Hoofla rode to Nelson Bay for the day.  They tell me they had a great time.  Suzie and I opted for a boat ride overseas to Stockton for the day which was a great trip.  Friday night we met up with the Lower Hunter Ulysses for tea at the South Side Pub and yes a few Bear juices were had. A great night was had by all.  Our friend Robin called to see us.

Saturday -  All the boys did the Thunder Run parade, where they met Ol' Number One.  We caught up with them at the markets at the end of the ride.  It started raining so we all headed back to camp and a few more Bear juices were had whilst sitting in the tent.  Saturday night we all went to the Dinner/Dance function which was another great night. 

Sunday saw Nags, Tammie, Rabs, Jeanie and Hoofla make there journey back to Moree.   I’m told Nagz had a long conversation with the "Man in Blue" about noise pollution.  (put that in your pipes and smoke it, mate).

Suzie and Bear made a trip to Sydney in the pouring rain, stopped half way for fuel and had a chat to a Motorbike Cop who told us the best way to get to Milperra (M2, M7 etc).

Suzie led all the way, I’m proud of her.  We were at the lights where we had to turn right, unfortunately we were in the left hand lane and the right was 3 lanes over in the peak hour traffic and our mate on the cop bike with red and blue lights flashing come out of nowhere and pointed to the right.....yeh right how do we get across to there....then a miracle....another cop on a motorbike with lights flashing stopped all traffic and let us cross all 4 lanes to get to where we should have been.

Thank you to the NSW Motorbike Police Department, especially those two officers.  Told you Nagz that if you donate to the Police Social Club and they will help you and not check your bike for noise pollution. 

To sum it all up, a fantastic four days or six days for some. 

Hope to see you all on our next ride.  So remember without you the members and non members who go on these rides there would be no rides.  So I say a big thank you for making my job a lot easier

the Bear.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Inverell

On the 10th April, 2011 we went to Inverell.

Well, it was another beautiful day for a ride, as usual the gang all nine riders and two passengers met at the Omega Cafes for chit chat before we left.

All admired Happy's latest effort in bike design.   R.J our mascot really loved the look of it and can't wait for a ride on it once he gets a helmet.

Great effort mate. Covered in skulls and looking fab, the Fat  Bob took to the road for the ride over the mountain to Inverell.

The sun shone and the wind blew strong for the first leg of the trip over the Bingara range, buffeting the boys as they road through the country side. When we got to Bingara, Eric made us welcome as always and we enjoyed a cool drink as we waited for a few of the more cautious riders to catch up.

We must also thank the folk at Bingara for getting behind our raffle and buying up big to support the cancer unit here in Moree. Thanks heaps folks.

Then it was off again to Inverell, across the mountains and past the dam.  What a glorious ride it was, the boys had great fun running the line across the hills and were only slowed by the enthusiastic efforts of Country Energy who where busy installing new lines across the mountain.

This again gave the more cautious of us a chance to catch the leaders, when we got the green flag off we went, to finish the last leg of the run into Inverell, and what a great run it was.

Happy had a little problem with the new creation so a quick trip to Auto One to solve the issue then down to the Rissole for lunch. Where we caught up with all the gang for a very satisfying lunch, a coffee and cake....yummy......and for once Nagz wasn't last to be served......!
 
Once the bellies were full and the bladders empty it was off again via the highway for the return journey to Moree. A little less wind but still a brilliant ride back as the clouds rolled in over the town. A quick flick through Pallie and into town.... don't you love the back road ...yeah ha!!

Only thing missing to make it a great day was the ride captain.  Get well soon Bear missed you in the photos so we did ..

So thanks to all who took part and look forward to seeing you all at the next ride.....and don't forget to sell  those tickets......
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event. 

Yamba


Last Friday, Saturday & Sunday 25~27 Feb, fourteen of us made the trip to Yamba for the weekend.

The weather was very kind to us, very sunny, and a great ride with no donations to the
police funds - luckyyyyyyyyy. 

Hey, guys, a big thank you to Muddie for taking his boat over for us to go fishing, thanks mate.

We arrived in Yamba around 1:30pm and unloaded our gear, then up to Muddies mansion for drinks and lunch.

After lunch it was into the boat for a few hours fishing....or maybe wet the lines..yeah no fish.

Moored the boat at the Tavern on way back to caravan park to get a bag of ice on Friday and again on Saturday because bloody ice kept melting, didn’t it guys!  The girls didn’t believe us ..... as if we would go drinking!

Friday night Yamba Bowling Club for tea and Jimion show, then an early night about 12-30am.

Saturday fishing again in the morning.. well wet the lines.  Saturday arvo free to do
as you wanted, some went to the blue pools in Angourie, while some opted for the beach.

Muddies mansion for BBQ tea, bear juice, laughs,and party and two strangers who thought we looked pretty good for a party...did not disappoint them.

More bear juice and a spa bath at... you guessed it Muddies mansion. 

Made our way back to Moree on sunday morning, a great time had by all.

Now a story ... which I got this from a good source .... about a lady on her way home with her male company who pulled in to Glen Innes for lunch and shop keeper asked what she had been doing as she was covered in sticky beaks all over her back.

Now where did you stop before Glen Innes?  It’s always good to get the mud on someone.

A big thank you to every one who went on this ride, thanks for your company I enjoyed it.

The Bear.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Bellata


Last Sunday, 6 Mar, we went to Bellata for breakfast.

Ten members and two non-members made the ride to Bellata.   Once again a good time had by all, breakfast was good and service was great.

Our old mate,  Burrie celebrated his 65th birthday on Friday (happy birthday mate),  so Suzie, our member from Narrabri, bought a chocolate mud cake with her.  It was soon  divided up into 12- pieces....bloody nice, so they tell me.

I hope I didn’t mention how old Burrie was....did I ?
 
Hope to see you all on Sunday, 13 March, for our Bingara lunch run, which is leaving the Cafe Omega at 10:45am, sharp.

The Bear.
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Click on the picture to see a larger version

Bellata

On Sunday, 13 Feb, we went to Bellata for breakfast.

We had another good roll up, with 10 members and 4 non members, attending and everyone enjoyed their breakfast with good company, lots’s of laughs and plenty of conversations all going at once.

Brinko’s mate, who is doing a charity ride to raise money for riders awareness and organ donors,  was also in Moree.

Tragically, his daughter died,  but something good came out of his daughter’s death as she saved the lives of  3 other people by being an organ donor. 

On behalf of the Cotton Country Cruisers Moree branch, I would like to send our condolences for his loss and as a way of supporting his charity ride, the hat was passed around and we raised $82 for Brinko’s mate, so a big thank you to everyone who donated.

Now, every one knows the saying about Nagz’s bike being “gay” with tassels on it, well today while Nagz was having breakfast, one or two of our members, depending on how you look at it, decided to put some pretty pink-blue-purple-and silver girl’s push bike tassels on his bike .... shit .... it looks good Nagz .... ha ha ha ....   but what's the deal with the purse ??

Hope to see you all on our next ride, so remember....without you the members and non-members who go on these rides...there would be no rides.

So  I say a big thank you for making my job a lot more enjoyable.

The Bear.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.

Narrabri

Last Sunday, 6 Feb, we had another good roll up for our ride to Narrabri with 11 bikes, 11-members, and 4-non members.

The weather was a bit unkind..."bloody hot”....but the ride was still enjoyable, every one enjoyed their lunch,and we had great company with a lot of stories and plenty of laughs.

I must say a big thank you to our members from Coonabarabran, Con and Robyn, for joining
us in Narrabri for lunch.  Thanks, and it was great to see you and catch up. 

And of course, not forgetting Suzie and Burrie, who travelled a long way to be there also.....all the way from Narrabri.  This does happen some times.

It seems we really do like to donate money.  Well I told you about 2-of our members donating money to the Police social club on our Uralla run .... well another member decided he wasn’t going to be left out of those donations ... so he also donated a sizeable amount of $$$$$$$, to the Police social club.

I didn’t name the other 2-members last time, so I won’t be naming this member this time, but it won’t take long to find out who it was.

The boys and girls in blue do a great job so it doesn’t hurt to donate some money, some time.

Hope to see you all on our next ride to Bellata for breakfast next Sunday, 13th Feb, leaving Cafe Omega at 7-30am-sharp.

Just remember .... without you the members and non members who go on these rides there would be no rides.....so I say thank you for making my job a lot easier.

The Bear.
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Bellata for Breakfast


Last Sunday, 9 Jan 2011, we went to Bellata for breakfast.  It was a beautiful day for a short run.

It was good to see  Ben Buckley, Matt Coleman and Justin Williams as well as the usual suspects with the one notable exception being Suzie, bit tired were we ?

All up we had  9 bikes ~ 12 people and it is very pleasing to see so many members and non members making the effort.  As we always say "the more,  the merrier".

It was great to catch up with everyone after the Christmas break as there were lots of stories and even more laughs. 

I was really happy to be able to take my daughters for the run as they enjoyed it greatly.  I am sure that it will make them smile as they remember how great the weather was when they are once again home in sunny, rainy, hot, cold, snowy Melbourne.

Like "The Bear" always says without you, the members and non members, who support these rides there would be  no rides. (ps..  Hope you are feeling better, Mate)

Rabs.
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Click on the image to see some photos of the event.




Christmas Party ~ Uralla - 2010


On Saturday, 4-Dec, 14 members and 2 non members on 9 bikes, made the trip to Uralla for our Christmas Party.

We went up to Inverell, Glen Innes, and Armidale, then on to Uralla.  From Moree to Glen Innes the rain bloody poured down, but our Narrabri members, being my X and Burrie, “enjoyed" an extra 100 km of rain.  Although it was raining, well pouring actually,  the ride was fantastic and everyone bloody enjoyed it.  I mean, why not , we were on our bikes

A slight mix-up with double bookings at the Pub, but we soon sorted that out and after getting our gear into the rooms, it was party time, with a few bear juices and a few more bear juices, a lot of laughs and a few stories thrown around.   Just ask Muddy about the house on the cliff next to the river?...you had to be there.

As our evening meal was being prepared, Santa came to visit us with lots of presents, God love him and, oh yes, I almost forgot, Santa asked me to thank all you beautiful ho..ho..ho’s who sat on his lap.  I think Santa enjoyed you doing that.

We all enjoyed our meals and afterwards, we went outside to sit and talk and have a few more bear juices. Again lots of laughter and everyone having a great time.

Matt, the owner of the Top Pub, even donated a few bear juices.  Thanks mate, we enjoyed them.

The hat was passed around for the Youth Insearch and $402 was collected, so a very big thank you to everyone who put their hands in their pockets.

Two of our members .... not to name them .... donated a few extra dollars to the police funds or so I’m told.   (yeah, they really did)

All in all, it was a fantastic weekend, so a very big thank you to all who made the effort to attend the Christmas Party.

And remember....without you there would be no rides, so I thank each and everyone of you for making my job more enjoyable.

The Bear.
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Bellata Breakfast


On Sunday, 14th November, we went to Bellata for breakfast and it was a beautiful day for a short run.

It was good to see Cole Thomas and happy, Brad Pacey also make the ride,  thanks guys

All up we had 11-bikes (13-people).  Thanks to our narrabri members, my X.. and Burrie, for making the ride.  All had a good time with plenty of laughs and a few stories thrown around

I’m pleased to see that you, the members and the non members, put the effort in to come along on these rides.  Like I always say without your support,  there would be no rides.

The Bear.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Bellata Breakfast


On Sunday, the 17th October, ten of us made our way to Bellata for breakfast.  A bit fresh in the morning frost but a enjoyable ride.  It was good to see Burrie and the X there to meet us once again.

One thing I can say, there was plenty of talking and everybody enjoyed their brekky.

So once again, I say thank you, because without you, the members, there are no rides.

The Bear.
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Ride to Inverell


On Sunday, the 26th September, 4 members + 1 visitor + 1 non member went to Inverell for lunch, and had a great time and a good meal.  We even had a Ulysses member come all the way from St-George to go on this ride, so a big thankyou to John Goudkamp who made a very long trip just to be with us on this ride.  He tells me it’s the first of many, so I hope so John as we enjoyed your company .
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Gloucester

Over the October Long Week-end,  we had 4 members + 1 non member make the trip to beautiful Gloucester for the weekend.

The weather was fine until we got about 20 km out of Walcha and then the heavens opened up and gave us a good soaking for the next
170 km.  Despite the rain it was a great ride over the Buckets Mountain and into Gloucester.

Arriving at my mates place, we were greated with open arms and the Bear Juice started to flow with a lot of talking and laughs. Saturday night we joined the Gloucester Ulysses at the RSL Club for their Ulysses meeting.  We were welcomed to the meeting by Maz, then the formalities got under way.

After the meeting, the food was brought out and the party began with plenty of Bear Juice and we stayed until the wee hours of the morning before heading back to Maz and Marys for a couple more Bear Juices.

On Sunday it was still pouring rain.  The forecast was only 2ml for Sat-Sun-Mon, but we ended up getting 120ml.  So we borrowed Mary's 4 wheeled tin top with intercom front and back and went to Nabiac Motorcycle Museum, which is just kind of over the hill from Gloucester. 

I've been there about 6 times before, as has Zed, but for my X and Rabbs this was their first trip to the Museum which they enjoyed very much.  We spent about 2 hrs looking at the many different bikes, and both the X and Rabbs said they needed about another 2 days to see it all.

Then we made our way to Harrington for lunch at the RSL Club, we had sweet chilly prawns, prawn cutlets, pepper squid and coffee
and it was to die for.

Back in the tin top we made our way to Crowdy Head to do the Tourist thing.  We all enjoyed it as it is a beautiful place.   On the way back to Gloucester we went the long way through Taree.  Well, the intercom in the back was working overtime, it’s one of those-you had to be there things, tears were rolling down our faces.

We were supposed to be back at Maz and Marys place for a BBQ and of course Bear Juice at 3pm, but we were a little late arriving at about 5-15pm, so the BBQ was put off until we arrived back.  Plenty of Tucker and yep,you guessed it, more Bear Juice.  I could keep writing for hours as we all enjoyed the weekend so much but I wont bore you any more.

I would like to thank Maz, Mary, Jenny, Brother Bruce and Parksy who rode with us to Walcha in the pouring rain, Bimbo, Christine, Cheryl, Elley, Hannah and Corbin for the beautiful tucker and there was plenty of it.  Even Rabbs couldn’t eat it all.

Thank you very much Gloucester Ulyssians for your warm hospitality and as always your friendship. Thank you Suzie, Rabbs, Zed and Felicity I enjoyed your company very much.

As always without you the Members there would be no rides.  The Bear.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Garah Hotel


On Sunday, 12 Sept,  we went to Garah Pub for a BBQ lunch with 10 members and 2 non-members.  Deb, the publican, welcomed us with open arms and put on a fantastic BBQ and salad followed by sweets.   It was good to see Troy Campbell and Happy Thomas join us on the ride.  Thank you Guys, it was good to have your company and I hope that you both join us again soon.

Every one enjoyed the Day with plenty of laughs and a few stories told.  Jenny Williams is back on the bike after a long break, good to see Jen, keep throwing your leg over love, and another member Spanner Man also joined us on the Ride.  Thanks mate, good to see you on your bike again.

I know I keep saying this after every ride, but its true that without you going on these Rides, there arn't any Rides, so I say "thankyou".

Don't forget next Sunday (Sept-19th), we have a BBQ and meeting at Suzies place in Narrabri, leaving Cafe Omega at 10-45am sharp.

Hope to see you there,  the Bear.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Narrabri


On Sunday, 29 August, we had 11 members converge on the Narrabri RSL for lunch meeting up with Burrie, Suzie, Tammy and Beck for a good meal and lots of laughs.

As Bears B/D was on the 30th, his X Suzie made some lovely muffins which we all enjoyed for sweets. Bear was then cajoled into posing for pictures with his harmen. After lunch we headed over the mountain to Bingara with a escort for part of the journey from Tammy and Beck.

We encountered five running cause ways on the way. Bear declined to accompany us and headed home on the highway with a couple of stops along the way.

From Bingara we headed to Warialda then for home. A great day was had by all.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Bingara


On Sunday, 15 August, 10 members and 1 non member made the ride to Bingara for lunch.

We went via Warialda and home through Delungra stopping at the Myall Creek Memorial for those who haven’t been there before.

As usual the meals at the pub were fantastic and the coffee is the best,  we all had a great day with plenty of laughs and good company.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

July Branch Meeting


Here are a few happy snaps of the camp oven lunch prior to our branch meeting on Sunday, 25 July.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Bellata


On Sunday, 28th March, nine of us went to Bellata for breakfast.  Good food, good company with plenty of laughs. We caught up with Burrie, my ex-Susie and Beck from Narrabri.

Good to see that Susie has brought another rider, and especially a female rider, to join us on our rides.  Beck rides a Harley and she enjoyes it very much.  We hope Beck can join us on many more rides.

So,  thankyou to all who made the effort to make the ride to Bellata.  

Regards,  The Bear.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Ride to Bingara


Nine of us went to Bingara for lunch.  It was an enjoyable day with lots of laughs and I must thank Burrie & my ex-Susie for making the effort to ride all the way up to Moree to join us on this ride.  So, thank you, both.

It was also good to see Dubbo on a ride again, so "thank you" Dubbo we have missed you, and while I am at it, It was also good to see Snapper join us for another ride on his new 650 Yamaha Custom.  A beautiful bike, mate, looks great.

So, I would like to take this opportunity to say "Thank You" to everyone who made the effort to be on these last two rides (Yamba & Bingara) because without you there, there are no rides.  

Regards,  The Bear.
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Week-end at Yamba


Our first week-end away for 2010 was to Yamba.
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Barra & Bourbon Night


A special "Welcome Home" was held when Robyn was back for a spell from Newcastle.

1st pic Jenny, Ros, Robyn, Arthur, Nev.
2nd pic Arthur the provider and chef, Jenny owner of venue and Taylor Jenny's grandaughter.



Click on each picture to see a larger image
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Uralla Overnighter with the Gloucester Ulysses


A great week-end was had by all who attended our Overnighter with the members of the Gloucester Ulysses at the Uralla Top Pub.

Left to Right
"Nags" our President, "Snapper",  "Arthur", "Rabs" our Publicity Officer, "Bear" our Ride Cordinator, Jenny, Tammy and "Flick".
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Click on the photo to see some photos of the event.

Cotton Country Cruisers Christmas Party - 2009


The Xmas party was held on Saturday the 5th December at the Mehi Caravan Park.    We had a ball, made some new friends, we drank, we ate, we swam. We played in the spa, told jokes and drank some more, and the the only complaint was Ros forgot the Tomato sauce ! (sorry folks).
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Healing Waters Festival - 2009

This picture taken at Thomas Lee Motorcycles, Moree on Saturday 03 October 09 when Felicity Urguhart dropped in to the shop and entertained us as part of the Healing Waters Festival

Back Row (left to right) Stephen (Rabs) Williams, Leonard (Zed) Hattenfels, Paul (Nags) Nagle, Greg (Bear) May,
Front Row (left to right) Susie Holmes, Felicity Urquhart, Tammy Nagle.

For those who are not familiar with Felicity, as well as being a delightful lady, she has won the Golden Guitar twice, the CMAA Independent Entertainer of the Year three times, the Mo Awards three times, the ACE Award twice and the Australia CM People's Choice Awards twice.


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