Monday Red Plate Report 11-03-24

On a beautiful Monday morning, 12 eager members of the Sporting Motorcycle Club embarked on this weeks Red Plate Monday Ride.

With the sun already casting its warmth upon the roads, the riders decided to make an early start to avoid the scorching heat of the day.

The group set out into the Golden Plains, a vast and picturesque expanse of rolling hills.

The route they took was a delightful mix of winding roads and open stretches, with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.

They passed by Russell’s Bridge and over the Moorabool River. After crossing the bridge, the riders zigzagged through a series of windy hills and roads, navigating the curves with skill and precision.

Eventually, the group reached their destination: the Lethbridge General Store. This charming old-fashioned store was a welcome sight, offering respite from the sun and a chance to relax.

The riders parked their motorcycles and headed inside, where they were greeted by the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the tantalising scent of homemade treats.

After a relaxing break the riders made their own way back into town, trying to escape from the blazing heat of the midday sun.

Thanks Brian O’Connor for the ride details and photos from today.

Monday Red Plate Report 04-03-24

The Sporting Motorcycle Club, known for its thrilling adventures on two wheels, hosted its weekly “Monday Red Plate Ride.” today 04-03-24

On this particular Monday, 17 enthusiastic riders gathered at their familiar meeting point, eager to embark on another captivating journey.

Led by the experienced rider Wayne Berry, the group set off on their machines, ready to explore the scenic wonders of the Bellarine Peninsula.

As they rode along the winding roads, the riders enjoyed the breathtaking views of the coastline, with the sparkling waters of the bay on one side and the hills of the Bellarine on the other.

The destination for the day was the charming coastal town of Portarlington, located at the tip of the Bellarine Peninsula.

The group made their way along the picturesque landscapes, taking in the sights and sounds of the region.

Finally, they arrived at their destination – the Pier St Cafe – where they were greeted with warm smiles and delicious refreshments.

As the riders relaxed and enjoyed their well-deserved break taking in the spectacular views across the bay towards Melbourne, they shared stories of their experiences on the road, before departing and making their own way back into town.

Another great Monday Red Plate Ride was had by all, thanks to all who participated & thanks to Wayne for leading the ride.

Hope to see you next Monday on the Red Plate Ride, come along with your red plate classic.

The 2024 SMCC Cape Patton Grand Prix

Today a group of 38 members with Motorcycles and 4 more members with two cars met early at the clubrooms for the Annual running of the SMCC Cape Patton Grand Prix, departing just after 9:00am

The group included an amazingly diverse range of Motorcycles, from Boardy & Beaks pre WWII Indians through to Jim’s ultra modern Street Fighter, with every other type of machine in between.

The Two cars joining the run were Belinda’s Hot Morry & Cathy’s immaculate MG B.

The group headed off through the light Sunday morning Traffic before joining the Geelong Ring road then onto Anglesea Rd. 

Traffic was heavy on route to Anglesea where the ride regrouped at the Anglesea Hotel.

Once regrouped the ride continued along the Great Ocean Road past Urquhart Bluff, Aireys Inlet, Fairhaven, Moggs Creek, Eastern View, Big Hill before arriving into Lorne.

Traffic was start stop through Lorne, with the good weather attracting beach goers, Lorne was very busy so the group was glad to see Lorne in their rear view mirrors.

Once clear of Lorne traffic and heading further around the coast towards Apollo Bay conditions improved with fewer vehicles, and also clearer visibility with the smoke from the Ballarat Fires lifting.

The group arrived safely at the Cape Patton Lookout and took in the amazing views and discussed the ride so far. The location providing a perfect photo opportunity. 

While at Cape Patton the twin Pigs ear awards were handed on to the next custodians, 1st was Club President Jim Van Sluys for getting what seemed like day release from Barwon Prison by wearing a pair of very stylish convict pants. The 2nd Pigs Ear was awarded to Don Lum to help top of a great way to spend his Birthday !

The ride then departed with the main group heading back into Lorne for Coffee at treats at HAH Lornebeach. 

While enroute back into Lorne with Boardy leading the highly competitive Indian crew and Beak inching closer to overtake and take the lead, Andrew’s bike automatically deployed electronic countermeasures by dropping Andrews Gladstone Bag, loaded with two large lead acid batteries, Wallet and Mobile phone.

Beak, being the true sportsman, pulled up after taking evasive manoeuvres to avoid hitting the dropped bag and then returning the bag to Boardy, with contents still intact, the bag suffering a bit of Great Ocean Road Gravel Rash.

Thanks to everyone involved in organising Today, specially Andrew Boardman for coming up with the idea for the event,  and Mark Swaby for providing his Van, trailer & skills as the support vehicle. 

All up the ride taking in approx 185km and 3hr 45mins of riding.