BMWMCQ September 2025

Committee

President - Geoff Hodge

Ph: 0413 180 101 president@bmwmcq.org.au

R1200RS; R75/5, R51/3

Vice President - Cindy Bennett Ph: 0401 610 671 vpres@bmwmcq.org.au R1200C; R1250GS

Secretary- Chris Bramwell Ph: 0427 480 811 secretary@bmwmcq.org.au

K1200GT

Treasurer - Tony Gray Ph: 0438 083 996 treasurer@bmwmcq.org.au R80GS; K100RS4V; K1300R

Events - Vacant Ph: events@bmwmcq.org.au

Editor - Liezel Samuel Ph: 0481 004 738 editor@bmwmcq.org.au Pillion on R1200GS

Records- Chris Bramwell Ph: 0427 480 811 records@bmwmcq.org.au

K1200GT

Tools/Service - Bill Luyton Ph: 0438 123 747 tools@bmwmcq.org.au

Regalia - Duncan Bennett Ph: 0458 293 569 regalia@bmwmcq.org.au R1250GS, Tiger 900 Rally Pro

Dealer Liaison - Don Grimes Ph: 0411 601 372

R1200GS; K1300R

Sub-Committee

Roles

Clubs Australia - Paul Hughes

Training Representative - Julian Davis

Club Details

This Issue - September 2025

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On The Cover

Huw and Liezel at Yosemite National Park, Tunnel View, 7:07am

Liezel Samuel Editor’s Report

After two unforgettable months riding through the USA and Canada, covering more than 18,000 km on our trusty R1200GS, it feels good to be back.

We rode through some of the most breathtaking National Parks and landscapes North America has to offer. Our journey stretched as far west as the iconic Mount Rushmore in South Dakota and as far north as Watson Lake in the Yukon. Every twist of the road brought a new adventure, and we can’t wait to share our stories and experiences with you in upcoming editions.

What makes our club journals special is how it brings together adventures of every kind. Whether it’s crossing continents, stumbling upon a world-famous rally, or enjoying a midweek ride closer to home, each story reflects the spirit of discovery and community that binds us together. This edition is filled with exactly that, tales of friendship, riding, and the joy that comes from being part of this club.

In this edition, Cindy shares how she and Duncan unexpectedly found themselves at the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota. Tony Malone recounts his ride south in search of Maggie’s legendary biscuits, along with a midweek ride led by David Harvey.

Tony Gray reflects on another successful Service Day and also gathered contributions from our enthusiastic Japanese visitor, Atsushi, as well as from Nick and Mary-Jane Hese, who generously hosted Atsushi on their property outside Stanthorpe.

And to top it off, we continue Duncan’s always-entertaining tale of the Bennetts’ quest to ride through all 48 lower states of the USA.

I hope you enjoy these contributions as much as I did assembling them, and that they inspire your own adventures, big or small, wherever the road may take you.

Happy reading,

Liezel

Submissions

Our GS patiently waiting in the Warehouse in Long Beach to be shipped back to Brisbane

for the next Journal close 25ish September

Geoff Hodge President’s Report

Hiall,

Xmas is coming and we have a room booked in Hervey Bay at Kondari Resort. There is onsite accommodation available.

As for other events, I attended the mid-week ride and the Biscuit ride to Jennings. Over the two locations we had a great roll up. Maggie did a fantastic job with her biscuits and slices.

The Rider course at Lake Side has had a great response and at the time of writing, the course is almost fully booked. Thanks to all of you who have already booked.

Geoff

BMWMCQ Club Events for

September 2025

October 2025

UPCOMING EVENTS TO PUT IN YOUR CALENDAR

Back to the Bush Weekend: 4-6 October

Maryborough and Goomeri

Saturday 4 October:

Dinner: 6.30pm at the White Lion Hotel, Maryborough.

Accommodation: Kimba Lodge Maryborough, next to the White Lion Hotel. There are 7 rooms held at the Kimba Lodge for us.

Phone 07 4123 3999 and mention that you are joining the BMW motorcycle club event to confirm your booking.

There are other motels nearby.

Sunday 5 October:

Dinner: 6.30pm at the Goomeri Hotel.

Accommodation: Goomeri Hotel

Rooms with shared bathroom are available from $95 (2 x single beds), $100 (1 x double bed) or $125 (1 x double bed plus 1 x single bed). Phone 07 4168 4131. There is also a motel up the road at about $140. Phone 07 4168 4141.

BMWMCQ CHRISTMAS PARTY:

Saturday 6 December

Kondari Resort, Urangan, QLD

An overnighter with accommodation and function at the resort.

Further details to be released shortly.

Vale Mark Loring

By Tony Gray, Member #390

We were saddened on Friday 16 August when we received news that Club Member Mark Loring had passed away.

Although not active with the club over the last couple of years Mark would be known to many club members. He was active for many years on club rides aboard his K1600GT.

He also had a very musical side working as a DJ and entertaining club members when the opportunity arose, like in this pic at a BMWMCQ Christmas Party at Evans Head.

We offer our condolences to Mark’s family and loved ones.

Rest easy Mark.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Cindy Bennett Vice President’s Report

Greetings from California!

We have been across the USA and back again and one of the most enjoyable aspects is meeting other riders.

The local insight and discussions have had, led to some changes in our itinerary - and even enlightened us to the Sturgis Rally we were about to stumble in to (see article in this Journal).

Just 2 days ago I met a lovely young woman and her partner who were heading to Bonneville to be part of the pit crew for her father who was riding in speed trials there. She has a riding friend in Australia and is keen to come over to ride our fine country.

So we may travel far and wide but the community of riders is a strong and friendly one. Ride safe and often!

Cindy “Tigers in the Hazard Zone” - Pacific Ocean, Crescent City California

Chris Bramwell

BMWMCQ General Meeting

Minutes - 7 August 2025

Venue: Geebung RSL

Correspondence:

It is with heartfelt regret that we have received Ben’s resignation as Events Officer.

We thank Ben for his wonderful service over his tenure as Events Officer and congratulate him on the magnificent job he has done.

Chris

Greg Gaffney

Hiall,

Record's officer Report

The amazing tracks on Facebook of Huw & Liezel and Duncan & Cindy’s extensive tours of the US, I feel, have been absolutely inspiring.

New members in August:

Robert Bell, BRISBANE CITY

Steven Connors, TAIGUM, F750GS

Danny Mccoy, GEEBUNG

Cheers,

Greg

Bill Luyten Tools Officer’s Report

Phone: 0438 123 747

Email:spares@bmwmcq.org.au

or: wluyten@bigpond .net .au

Service Day

The Club Service Day was held at Rob Wynne’s place at Jimboomba on 2 Aug. Around 30 members attended with 26 bikes and somehow a Mitsubishi snuck in as well.

Sausage sizzle and drinks were sold, raising $145 for the RFDS (Royal Flying Doctors).

Thanks once again to Chris Lancaster for the cookies, always very popular.

A top service day with great weather and enjoyed by all.

Thanks again to Rob Wynne for the use of his premises and BBQ.

We have an offer for the use of a Static Wheel Balancer for club members, please contact me if you’d like more information and the contact to borrow this.

New purchases:

The club recently purchased 3 new Torque Wrenches; the torque range goes from 3 to 210 Newton Meters.

M12-thread-repair-kit-131-piece (Helicoil)

Tools for loan

There are special tools available including the GS-911WiFi and 3 pin diagnostic tools.

Special Tools

• 34mm socket for rotating crankshaft

• Twinmax electronic carburetor balancer (Twin BMW engines)

• SynchroKing - Carburettor & Throttle Body Balancer

• LambdaKing Mk II - Air Fuel Ratio Tuning Meter

• Clutch alignment shafts (3 sizes)

• Compression tester (cylinder pressure)

• Steering head bearing puller and seating tool

• Gearbox output flange puller

• GS-911 Wi-Fi Diagnostic tool (Wi-Fi and USB Version)

• GS-911 3 pin Diagnostic tool (for older bikes)

• Tyre Pressure Monitor Sensor (TPMS) tool

• Enduralast hall sensor tester

• M12-thread-repair-kit-131-piece (Helicoil)

• Torque wrenches, the torque range goes from 3 to 210 Newton Meters

• Battery tester

• Battery Charger

Club Tool Loan:

Tools can be picked up or brought along to the next meeting or Club ride. Please contact me by email or mobile.

Bill

Tony Gray Treasurer’s Report

Hiall,

At time of reading Jane and I should be somewhere in outback Queensland (hopefully) enjoying fine late winter weather in beautiful Queensland. Jane managed to arrange our Grand-parenting duties so we have a 3 week window to enjoy time together on the Gray Ghost on the great open roads of Queensland. After more than our share of rain on the Frigid Digit and Biscuits rides some sunshine will be most welcome. Safe riding to everyone and to those undertaking the Cornering & Braking Course, enjoy but listen and learn. I have done similar courses before with a different provider and there is something new there for everyone.

Accounts as at 22 August 2025

Business Account:

Start Period 25 Mar : $ 27,190.36

Debits for Period: $ 768.37

Credits for Period: $ 1,228.86

Balance at 22 April : $ 27,650.85

Investment Account: $ 42,821.64 (unchanged)

Paypal Account: $ 0

Total Funds: $ 70,472.49

State Grant Funds Held: $ 8,925.00 (unchanged)

Debits incurred during the period included these items for service days: Shop Towels $44.99, Tie Down Straps for 2nd lift $49.95, Chairs for service days and outside gatherings $184. There was a refundable holding deposit of $200 paid for the Club Christmas Function and a $100 Gift Card donated to Maggie to offset the cost of ingredients for the Annual George & Maggie Biscuit Ride.

Credits for period comprised membership fees, a small amount of interest and $103.65 collected for the RFDS at the Biscuit Ride. This is being transferred to the RFDS but had not been finalised at time of printing.

There was also a payment error by a member who deposited $239.43 for a $50 membership renewal. The $50 was deducted and $189.43 reimbursed to the member.

We are still awaiting claims from some members who have completed approved safety courses and are eligible for the $50 Club contribution. We also have a large number of members undertaking the Cornering & Braking Safe Rider course on 31 August. This will make a substantial draw on the State Grant Funds held by the club..

Safe & happy riding to all members.

Tony

Duncan

Bennett

LastRegalia Report

month it was all about Mario’s insulated water bottle which has saved us many days, including in late August in Oregon which was experiencing the highest temperatures since 1915, over 100 in the old money.

This month it is all about another insulating favourite – the stubby holder. The Australian stubby holder is the most advanced design in the world, the things we see over here are either ridiculously thin and have no insulating capacity, or are so thick and stiff that one cannot get the IPA can out of it when finished. I carry heaps, but only one for actual drinks. They are perfect for holding things in the top box and stopping them rolling around or rubbing tiny holes through precious things like your emergency contraceptive kit. Thinking my disc lock, my multitool, my small can of WD-40, and the emergency contraceptive kit and repair glue I’m holding for a friend. Do yourself a favour and get a heap. Oh and get a bucket hat for when you get to Crater Lake – one of the most incredible sights we’ve ever seen.

Cheers,

Duncan

Regalia Collection Set of 6 ....1 x Large Patch, 1 x Small Patch, 1 x Key Ring, 1 x Small Round Sticker, 1 x Long Helmet Sticker and 1 x 100th

Lady Shirts

2025 REGALIA

Regalia Ordering Methods

Regalia is ordered through: regalia@bmwmcq.org.au

Method 1: Bling Your Own Wardrobe

You can get a BMWMCQ logo embroidered on your own shirt (or underwear, no-one needs to know). Purchase the item, call/email Regalia, and drop it off at a General Meeting or contact Regalia for the best way of getting the item transferred.

Method 2: Use the Inta Net

Click on the links on the previous page, or if you want something different, go to linked website (link below), and note supplier, item number and size and colour and send details to Regalia via email or contact number.

Note: Shirts, vests, and other items have the 2021 (current) logo:

Hats and other items with limited vertical space still have the old logo style:

Method 3: Bang on a Badge

Buy a big or small badge from the Regalia Officer, and iron or glue or sew it on your jacket or shirt:

Please contact your Regalia Officer for more help with options of ordering methods via email regalia@bmwmcq.org.au.

By Cindy Bennett, Member #4170

We have all heard of the famous Sturgis Motorcycle Rally held annually in the South Dakota town of the same name in the Black Hills.

Duncan and I had always intended on visiting and riding the famous Black Hills on our “Lower 48” USA trip. We were especially keen to see Mount Rushmore and ride Custer State Park as well as see the Crazy Horse memorial being carved into a mountainside. Of course the Needles Highway was also on the list.

What we didn’t do was google the dates for Sturgis Rally 2025! And yes, the weekend we were there was when it was starting it’s 10 day run. Although I did wonder why the accommodation prices were a tad high. We were enlightened by a Harley Rider a couple of days earlier when chatting to him and his pillion at a lunch stop. They had been in and gone again before it got too crazy, well OK then… bring on the insanity!

So we girded our loins and rode into Sturgis to see what the fuss was about, this was on the Friday and the Rally proper started on the Sunday. For several miles coming into town was Harley Central, and of course they were riding in their famous close-together formation.

One of the campsites around Sturgis

Heading into town it was clear that a lot of the attendees chose to camp at mega RV sites which have a HD marquee, concert venue and other necessary facilities. We were surprised how many trailer their bike/trike in with the supersize RV. Having ridden most of the flat mid-west states I am calling this as a top idea.

The town of Sturgis was pumping! Several streets were blocked off to cars and we battled to find a park, eventually doing so in a back street next to a couple of Indian brand bikes. Had to hide the Tigers away. Duncan and I were immediately out of place wearing our Klim suits. It was like we had walked into an old timey western bar and the music stopped.

A wander down the main street was entertaining, with one gent walking around with a large snake about his neck, and some skimpy costumes were observed on some “enhanced” ladies. The demographic was late 60’s to mid 70’s from my initial observations with the occasional young un’ in some eye-popping attire. Another observation over our time in the region was the high number of trikes – I would estimate around ¼ of the attendees on this form of bike. I guess this goes to some nifty marketing from HD to ensure they don’t lose their market to age related riding restrictions.

Duncan checking out Regalia

I had to buy a fridge magnet and sticker to celebrate our venture into the “dark side” and the array of regalia had to be seen to be believed, spangled g-strings anyone? Harley Davidson are obviously the major sponsor and their presence is everywhere, with pop-up bars, merch shops and bike displays. What they didn’t have was ear plugs – I had lost one of my current set and thought surely the HD apparel superstore would have some, nah too practical an item to be stocked.

We were booked to stay in Hill City for 3 nights, about an hour south of Sturgis so thought we would be well out of the fray – NO. Our hotel had mostly other bikers staying and they were a friendly mob engaging in low key celebrations. There were a lot of big SUV’s with bike trailers, most staying seeming to have trailered the Hog in.

While Hill City also had the main street blocked off to cars, there was a greater variety of style of bikes. We did see 2 other Tigers and a few GS’s. Even a couple of 1250 GS’s from Bolivia. The riding attire was just incredible to us, as we always adhere to the “all the gear all the time” mantra. Even most GS riders were in a t-shirt and baseball cap! When in Rome I guess.

Some stats from Sturgis 2025 – there were approx. 700,000 attendees on this the 85th year of the event. Motorcycle crashes totalled 66 in the greater area with sadly 12 fatalities. In fact, the day Duncan and I did a ride around Mount Rushmore there was a crash there involving 4 Harleys.

A

So, do we regret our venture into the Sturgis Rally madness? I say no. It was a fun experience and the people watching was just so interesting. When we got to talk with other riders they were engaging and there for a good time to connect with other like minded souls. If I went again, I would fly in and rent a Harley –just for the hell of it. Oh and wear lots of bling – including custom printed hot pants that say “this ass is Duncan’s”! Rock On.

MBy Tony Malone, Member #67

aggie’s Biscuit Event this year was set for Sunday 10 August 2025 to be held at 10am in Jennings Park, immediately over the border in New South Wales. The options were to just ride there on the Sunday morning, or to make a weekend of it, in either Stanthorpe in Queensland or over the border in Tenterfield. Having recently overnighted in Stanthorpe for the Frigid Digit, my choice was to cross the border. The best way to get there was to take the Mt. Lindesay Road (formerly highway).

The choice was to stay at the Peter Allen Motor Inn which is good accommodation at reasonable rates. Donna was my travelling companion, and having a more relaxed timeline for arrival we planned to stop at The Shed, Rathlogan for lunch (which lies a few kilometres before Rathdowney). As to negatives for this place, the only one is the steep one lane bitumen driveway between the olive trees. I am often concerned as to meeting a vehicle on the way with few options for passing. Nevertheless, the quality of the food, friendly service, and products on offer (jams, relishes, etc.), and the fact that it is licenced premises makes the risk worthwhile. I chose a B.L.T. with a flat white coffee; favourites of mine.

Back on the road gave a chance to enjoy it without the rain and flooding experienced a fortnight before at the Frigid Digit. There is yet another reduced speed limit past the Correctional Centre, and significant works are happening as one approaches the border. The ground must be quite unstable; the topography being such that it almost takes over the steering of the machine. However, as the border is crossed everything changes. The rough potholed surface changes to fine tarmac with nice positive cambers, running right alongside the border fence. Passing Legume (the point at which it used to become a decomposed granite surface) it is now sealed all the way to Tenterfield. A really nice ride.

Arriving at the Motor Inn we met up with other members who decided on the Southern Attack. In the next room to us were 4 ladies on their

off-road machines; 2 being Suzuki DR650s, the others being something else. We were told that they were from Brisbane, but I did not have a chance to speak with them. Paul Hughes had made a dinner booking at the Royal Hotel which was just down the road. And what a fine dining room it was! Silky oak panelling gave a fine atmosphere, and the drinks at reasonable prices were well received. The service was fine; as was the food. Returning to the accommodation gave a hint at how cold it can be down there in winter. There were also a few drops of rain.

Rising the next morning I made some toast with peanut paste (that I had purchased at the supermarket across the road the evening before). With a warm cup of tea it was time to pack up and face the day. The gathering being at 10am, there was ample time to make it a leisurely start, and I allowed about 30 minutes to track back to the border.

Maggie and Peter Todd

I was not really sure of the location of the park at Jennings, and so used the Aboriginal way of finding water using birds as a guide; head towards the probable place and keep a lookout for motorcycles heading the same way in the hope that they knew where to go. And it

worked, finding the place with the biscuits (and cake) presented on the picnic tables. As usual Maggie had excelled herself, and I enjoyed a range of delicacies. There was good conversation amongst members (with those who stayed the night in Stanthorpe at O”Mara’s hotel joining us – the Northern Force), and some people from New Zealand on their Ural sidecar, and a couple of local motorcyclists joined in the fun.

And then it was time for the trip home. I try to avoid Cunningham’s Gap as much as I can with the roadworks and significant delays experience. For that reason it was back along the New England Highway then down trough Ma Ma Creek road and home to Ipswich.

All up it was a fine weekend, and I am sure that in thanking Maggie no one could say that I amAlone

By Jane Gray, Member #4300

By Duncan Bennett, Member #4171

Dodge City Kansas. Day 16. We were taking the TV show Gunsmoke advice, which was to “get out of Dodge”. We got out of Dodge.

Got out of Dodge

Kansas is famous for lots of reasons, but the corner in the road is not one of them. There are almost none. The Karoo 4 rear tyre was starting to notice the lack of corner, and wearing down like I was on the Barrier Highway through Broken Hill. I was starting to worry so much that I’d started to spell tyres tires. Phone calls had been going for a few days at this point, without any success whatsoever. This was a surprise to me, as I assumed the USA would be dripping with motorcycle tire places, in fact every McDonalds would have an adjunct drive-thru motorcycle tire service, i.e., pull up at the speaker, look at the selection – road, off-road, dual sport –“Cran I tache yo odor?” – “I’ll have a front and back 50:50 combo please” – “Doo (crackle) yoo (incomprehensible) brake padz with theit?” – “No thanks, just the tires. Oh, hang on, you want what Cindy? Okay 6 Chicken McNuggets and an Unsweetened Iced Tea please.” – “Watt saws doo yar wunt?” – “Mumble mumble Honey Mustard please”. – “OK drive thru palease.”

Note the Kansas corners

Travelling in Kansas is just selecting north-south or east-west roads. We decided to go south early to Coldwater. We met up with a very interesting Harley rider there – he’d left Los Angeles only a couple of days prior, and he posts on YouTube as Jonnys Gone Again. His short videos are very entertaining. On the subject of US riders, Jonny is like a couple of others we’ve met, they do enormous miles. Tom, a very nice bloke we met well into the future in Tennessee said he was returning from a Cincinnati OH to Orlando FL ride over two days. 900 miles, and that’s nothing. Normally do that in one. We’d freak out having to do that in 4 days. Kansas is what most riders describe as one of the central “commute” states, riders just put the head down and ride across the flat nothingness without stopping to get to the Rockies in the west or the Appalachians in the east. But even nothing has the appeal of something for us.

The Himalaya of Kansas – Gypsum Hills

Through Medicine Lodge, a quick photo taken of Carry Nation’s house. I fully understand if you need to open another tab in your overworkedto-the-point-of-collapse browser to googs Carry Nation to get more detail, but she was a temperance movement activist in the late 1800’s and was famous for smashing up pubs and being a right royal pain in the glutes. Ironically there is a liquor store next to her house these days. Easting once more, we went through the town of Sharon without seeing anyone who looked like they could be the actual Sharon, and then had to take another south to get to the right latitude for Arkansas City (nowhere near Arkansas, but on the Arkansas River) and the commute day destination of Coffeyville, chosen based on it being around ⅓ of the way from

Dodge to Memphis using the Shrink the USA into a 100mm Scale and Close One Eye Method. A few kilometres outside Coffeyville something odd happened, the side of my helmet visor came loose. Weird, better pull over and check this out. Uh-oh, broken off and swinging. Klim stuff has rarely let me down so this was a bit of a surprise. In every other major trip I’ve carried a spare visor, but this was the USA and so every Burger King would have an adjunct drive-thru selling the full range of Klim gear. Dooy’all warnt thet visah flame grilled Sugah? Nuh. Out with the electrical tape, problem solved, but not being able to lift the visor in the heat wasn’t ideal. A trip to the Yoke Bar and Grill put everything either into perspective or completely erased it.

That’s not helpful

Day 17 target was Branson, chosen because it looked to be around ⅔’s of the way between Dodge and Memphis using the aforementioned method and wasn’t a city. No relation to Sharon apparently and in a completely different state, Missouri. East in a straight line continued, but the straight bits days were now numbered as we crossed the border. Into Joplin for a morning tea at a servo in uncomfortable heat, we pushed through to a diner hopefully with an adjunct motorcycle tire drive-thru in Springfield. This provides an opportunity to briefly segue into a word about luncheon in the USA. Every servo has a convenience store attached, so there is plenty

of stuff including “Grab and Go” sandwiches and salads that can be bought with the fuel. Some servos have a fair dinkum supermarket attached, can get a roast beef and all the veges. But only very rarely do they have somewhere to sit down, and when it is an oven outside this isn’t ideal. Many is the time we’ve found a servo corner to stand and have our drinks, but eating isn’t an option. There are a few roadside stops, commonly near rivers or dams but not many, and if it is an oven outside then these aren’t a popular choice. So on hot days when eating in the air con is mandatory the choice is a café/ restaurant, or the ubiquitous popular rapidly delivered chicken ± carbs family dining. The café/restaurant is preferred for every ranking measure except cost, these can be expensive, but tragically can also be hard to find. Often we’ve motored around the sweltering inner city to successfully locate the Gourmet Seafood and Cured Meats Café to find it either a boarded up graffitied shell or closed only on the day we are there. The family diner is always air conditioned, open, and there is always one right there.

End of the straight and the canvas in my rear tire nearly in sight

Tire search up a notch at this point. Let’s go to a motorcycle dealership and just ask. First thing discovered is they aren’t usually motorcycle dealers, they are powersports dealers. Off to Pitbull Powersports. Very helpful, except they don’t carry adventure bike tire sizes. We are heading to Branson, anything down there? Try the place at West Branson, or the place southwest of here at Marionville. Thanks very much. Down toward Branson in the Ozarks, the null hypothesis that it was a small quiet village

with a population of 250 and hopefully a craft beer brewery that served giant pretzels was quickly falsified. The null hypothesis changed to Branson was the tourist town we’d been not looking for – huge resorts, billboards advertising Dolly Parton’s Dixie Stampede Dinner Attraction, and weirdly the Titanic Museum. Not sure the liner ever plied the waters of Table Rock Lake between Joe Bald Park and the Bluegreen Vacations Paradise Point Resort, but if the museum isn’t in Southampton in England then Branson, Missouri is as good as anywhere. Out to West Branson, the powersports shop had a suspicious array of propellered sports vehicles, but we were in luck as one of the staff was a BMW rider and was very helpful beside being a very nice bloke. Marionville powersports was definitely the go he said. Straight on the phone, yes we have a 150/70 17” tire, a Dunlop Trailmax Raid. By some sort of miracle can you do it tomorrow? Yes. 9am. Prayers hopefully answered, we could check into the hotel and enjoy the sights and scenes of a true tourist town through the agency of Waxy O’Shea’s Irish Pub.

The concrete leveling scraper drew a bigger crowd than Dolly’s Dixie Stampede

Day 18 was a trial separation day. Cindy decided she didn’t need to add a lot of miles onto the 280-odd to get to Memphis, I could do that on my own. Luckily, heading backwards meant better weather, my time in some seriously intense rain was a lot briefer than Cindy’s. Up north-west for an hour to Marionville, I naturally had some concerns growing. What if the person who was the only one in the dealership able to change a tire called in sick? What if it wasn’t a 150/70 17” but something else and the chap had misread the label? Even going through the town of

Clever and past the Clever High School didn’t relax the nerves much, in fact I didn’t even stop for a photo. Into Marionville the tension escalated, the population sign said 2,000 people. OMG this can’t be the right place, a town with 2,000 people barely rates a pub and a servo let alone a powersports dealership. Then there it was. It was huge. WTGG (What the Goodness Gracious)? I was way early, so hung around while 100 four wheelers and high performance side-by-sides were lined up out the front. Then at precisely 9am, at the desk. Take a seat, grab a coffee, we’ll do the tire straight up.

The Miracle at Marionville MO

A wander about the enormous shop and a chat with the KTM sales bloke revealed some things. Marionville is tiny but services a big area including the Ozarks and Arkansas. But what about the high performance side-by-sides? People buy them to carve up the deserts out in New Mexico and Arizona, only a boring day across Kansas away. Really? Anyway, within the standard tire change time I was back on and ready to go. I now knew how Chuck Berry felt: Help me, information get in touch with my Cindy. She's the only one who'd phone me here from Memphis, Tennessee. Although Cindy was actually calling from Oil Trough Arkansas, it was close enough.

A quick stop at the Triumph dealer in Jonesboro Arkansas to hopefully get someone to cancel an annoying tire pressure alarm. This place wasn’t even in a suburb of Jonesboro, and the neighbourhood was very rural and basic. But it was enormous. I couldn’t even get a photo that gave an idea of how big it was, there were hundreds of motorcycles and other stuff in there. In a rural town with a population of 2,000 people. What is going on here? Anyway, they gave me a few tips about cancelling the alarm, and I pushed on to Memphis.

A small section of the Jonesboro powersports dealer

We were staying right in the heart of Memphis, Tennessee. A very quick deviation here into the stateliness of the USA, I now find myself saying we come from Brisbane, Queensland. Back on track, thoughts of Memphis heavy traffic, huge crowds, and difficulty finding a park near the apartment were swirling as I crossed the bloody enormous Mississippi into state No.11. Nuh, none of that. This was our first taste of the utterly dead US city centre. Talking nobody, no traffic, nothing. Empty streets, just the odd disturbed wanderer. Parked right out the front, unloaded, could have left the bike there for days without it bothering anyone. And we were only a couple of blocks away from Beale St, the music hub of Memphis.

Days 19 and 20 was a Memphis mersion. On Day 19, we did the Memphis tour with the riverboat cruise. We got the history of Memphis, we cruised the town, we saw millionaires row, we saw where Elvis and BB King stayed in what was essentially council housing for the poor, and we got to do a museum of our choice.

We chose the Edge Motor Museum, most of the others on our tour went to the Civil Rights Museum which is at the hotel where Martin Luther King Jnr was shot. I will start the description of the Edge by saying I’ve never been a car person. To me they are simply an A to B device. Yes I appreciate the beauty of the Ferrari or the Jaguar, but my interest is at a reliability level.

The Edge changed that.

The cars they have in there are incredible, plus the background information on things that you never think about, well I might, e.g. the evolution of tires.

The best of the best was the car that won the 6 hour Sebring race in 1950, this is a 1949 Crosley Hotshot. It was driven to the race by a couple of young blokes, they were there to watch it, but someone convinced them that they should enter. OK, chuck all the unnecessary stuff out, use boot polish to draw on the No.19 and let’s go. A true Bradbury result, they were slow, they had a 720cc engine, they were driving something that looked like a bathtub, they were being passed by everyone, but they didn’t need to stop for anything except fuel.

So they won.

The 1949 Crosley Hotshot

My personal favourite was the Shelby Mustang. Looks and engineering all rolled into one. Another thing in the museum was the development of entertainment. These days we all connect to the car and can happily listen to that riveting podcast about saddle selection for dressage ponies, but many of us remember the days of CDs (texting while driving is nowhere near as distracting as changing out six CDs by the way) and cassettes. But it all began with AM radios. Interestingly in 1953 in the US all radios needed to have the dial marked for rapid tuning to the Conelrad (Control of Electromagnetic Radiation) frequencies in case of nuclear attack. They’d just be on the playlist now with Morgan Freeman providing the calming voice – “Missiles are now striking Memphis downtown. Which got busy dying a long time ago.”

Conelrad markings

After the museum we were off to the river for the cruise. This was good because it allowed us to get a Tennessee border sign photo, the problem

with this neck of the woods is that there are a lot of rivers and they made a handy border between states. Unlike Australia, where NSW said to Victoria and Queensland “Of course you can have your own state, but the river is all ours no matter where it wanders, find your own effin’ water”, the US used the middle of the river as the border, and it was fixed at the time, so there are now large areas of the opposite bank that inconveniently belong to the state on the other side. So the bloody border signs are smack bang in the middle of a bridge where stopping to take a photo is only possible if you want to die.

We both rode under this one, we swear

We’d decided to self-cater at this point because we were in a magnificent and huge apartment with the ability to cook anything. But Memphis city centre was utterly devoid of anything but the most basic convenience stores. The King & Union Bar Grocery sounded too good to be true, it was, and we could only assume they’d called it a Bar Grocery to entrap people who wanted groceries and they’d end up buying a cocktail instead. We took a big walk to go to a butcher because meat was the hardest thing to find, only to find a closed and graffitied shell. It was zombie apocalypse territory. Never mind, back

to the convenience store and get a Bachelor’s Handbag, i.e. a BBQ chicken the size of a 1949 Crosley Hotshot. Anyway, enough whinging, onto Day 20. Graceland. We’d booked an Uber, we had a 10am slot, and made it with 2 minutes to spare.

The Elvis Epicentre

On a bus, 100m across the road (Elvis Presley Boulevard), and line up for our turn with audio support. Through the mansion, see the graves, and back across the road to the Elvis Museum. The closest thing to this experience we’ve seen is in Cuba with the Che Guevara and Fidel Castro idolatry.

The common theme is grainy black and white photos and the redacted lives. In the Graceland case they are of a young and successful Elvis in the 1950’s, becoming huge in the USA, and absolutely zero mention of the later 1970’s when he was eating a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with a pound of bacon, a jar of peanut butter, and a jar of blueberry preserves at a sitting. It isn’t really fair, especially because the undercurrent is that Elvis and his family were poor but very decent people, suddenly thrust into incredible stardom, but maintaining their decency, generosity, and dedication to duty. Elvis’ military service is a great example. That is what should be highlighted throughout his whole life, for better or worse, not the “Elvis was young and perfect and loved motorcycles/ cars/horses/racquetball/hanging with friends/ renovating the house”.

A member of the party had one

That night after another crack at the remnants of the biggest Bachelor’s Handbag in chook history, we headed down to Beale St. Just missing one live act, we wandered into the Blues City Café. This was pure joy – incredible free live music that just doesn’t exist outside places like Memphis and N’Orleans.

The aspirational tip bucket

Day 21 was east. Cindy wanted Nutbush but it was a fair way out of the way and it was never incorporated as a city, so there is no Nutbush City Limits sign. Therefore no point. Bouncing around the bottom of Tennessee just north of the Mississippi state border, 5 sets of double consonants there, we rolled into one of my locations, the Shiloh battlefield park. I’ve always been interested in the Civil War, mainly because it was a precursor to the big wars of the 20th century with logistics and industrial resources

becoming major factors in the outcome and rifles and artillery causing massive casualties.

The days before identity tags meant a lot of unknowns

It was jolly hot, so into the visitor’s centre where they played an excellent movie explaining the before, during, and after the battle. The battlefields from the 1860’s generally don’t have much out in the field surviving, and they are mainly state memorials in places men from those states fought. Into Savannah, some did the excellent Savannah museum while some had a lie down in the air conditioned motel room. Finding dinner was tough, it was a Sunday and nothing was open, so a servo pizza had to take up the pants slack.

Any Excuse to not be open

Day 22, the first day of the 4th week for the Gregorian calendar purists, was unfortunately south, out of the frying panhandle and into the humid sweat bath of the state of Mississippi. We’d

decided to do the Natchez Trace Parkway, which runs diagonally across the state from north-east to south-west. The Natchez Trace follows old bison pathways and is notable because it avoids ascents and descents and is relatively flat. It was used by Indians and from white settlement Tennessee people built flat boats to float their produce down the Cumberland, Tennessee, Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to New Orleans to sell the whole lot including the boat. They walked home via the Trace. But then the steam engine was invented, and the Trace use fell away. It was revived as a Civilian Conservation Corps project during the depression and marked out by a very dedicated group of the Daughters of the American Revolution in the 1930’s. It is very pleasant riding, shaded, smooth, very little traffic, and lots of historical markers.

On the Trace

There are very few major towns on the Trace, so we pushed onto Jackson to call it a day. We had two nights in Jackson, and we had booked the Hilton in the downtown area. We’d thought Memphis downtown was post-apocalyptic, but it was pumping compared with Jackson. Very dingey, and no human beings or businesses run by human beings that help the traveller. We checked in, then tried to sort out parking. The Hilton had outsourced this to a valet service, who charged $28 per day. Hmmm. Expensive, can’t we just poke them into a space out of the way? Sorry no said the lady, and it is $28 per vehicle, and you have two vehicles. But they go into one space. It is $28 per vehicle, and obviously

I can’t ride so you don’t get the valet service, but still $56 per day. I began to remember why I’d struggled in the Deep South in the 1980’s. Before I completely lost it, Cindy suggested we check out a $10 per day spot around the corner. A bit out of sight, not as cathartic as punching a parking lady in the face, but as no humans existed in the area it seemed OK.

Yep. We’re in the Deep South now

Very very luckily there was an excellent bar and grill just around the corner – without this it would have been an unpleasant place to stay.

Day 23 was another trial separation. I wanted to see the Vicksburg Civil War battlefield, and Cindy wanted to see it not. Her mission was to find a post office and post a book back to sister Kim. FedEx in Memphis had given a quote of US$191, which was the same as 10 books. So off to Vicksburg because that’s surely more interesting than going to a post office.

Or is it?

Anyway, Brisbane in mid-February sweating levels were challenged in Vicksburg, but I put in the effort because the chances of coming back are fairly low. Vicksburg was held by the Confederacy, and it controlled Mississippi river traffic. Ulysses S. Grant made 7 attempts to take it, it was that important. On the seventh go he landed troops south of the city on the east bank, set up a secure supply line, and surrounded it. It has all the features of a WW1 battlefield, with trenches only yards apart in places. But with total loss of supply to the city, it became a

matter of time, 47 days to be precise, before the surrender. From that moment the Union had control of the entire Mississippi, and the end of the Confederacy was inevitable.

The strategic value of Vicksburg came down to this view over the Mississippi River

Meanwhile, back in Jackson, Cindy was suffering from Google Maps fake post office syndrome. Firstly, it suggested that one was about 2km away in Jackson State University. I’d ridden through this district on the way to Vicksburg and its descent into socio-economic oblivion was quite sudden. Ruined servos with rubbish and homeless people sitting between the remains of the bowsers were the pictures the legendary black and white photographers would have captured. But she made it, couldn’t find the post office, but found the uni book shop was open. No, no post office here, you need to go to the one downtown, you obviously drove here, shouldn’t take long. You didn’t drive? OMG you walked?

So back to the hotel via a slightly less interesting walking route. Cool down, call an Uber, too far and hot to walk to the strip mall post office. Uber driver says I’m waiting for you, this place is not safe. A Google Maps fake post office there as well. Uber driver now becomes Cindy’s chauffeur. Google Maps did know where the main central post office was, so finally success. The postage cost was US$30, trivial compared to the emotional and physical risk expenditure.

The fake post office death journey had its lighter moments

Day 24 was an escape from Jackson, and continuation on the Natchez Trace to Natchez. Some interesting places along this section, Rocky Springs and the Emerald Mound were highlights.

Rocky Springs cemetery the most Deep South looking place ever

The Plaquemine culture Emerald Mound is the second largest in North America and was constructed between 1300 and 1600 out of dirt and it is bloody huge. We felt sorry for the people who have to mow it. These mounds supported temples and other important buildings, and were an important centre for the tribes.

Emerald

Mound. Dad and the boys looking for mum’s ring in the long grass.

Into Natchez. 300 miles of Trace done. It was seriously hot. Into the centre of town to find somewhere air conditioned to dine. Google Maps showed fake diners everywhere, eventually I said to Cindy that I was going to have to stop and figure it out. We stopped, I was looking at the iPhone, Cindy says what about the place we are parked outside? Oh, yes, that will do. Our server asked if we would like a drink? Rivulets of sweat running off and with the heat radiating off the forehead melting nearby plastic, a sarcastic response was dying to make an appearance but wasn’t allowed. The drink skulled in 1 second and a gumbo and a catfish attempted, wow that is good. Deep South food is fantastic.

Mississippi burning

Cooled down, we headed south and east. I’d nearly crossed into Louisiana across from Vicksburg but got into the wrong lane so no border sign photo. We’d gone over the river at Natchez but no sign saying anything about crossing a border. We went past Jefferson Davis’s boyhood home at Woodville then crossed into Louisiana north of Norwood, the poles were there but the sign was missing. No worries, we’ll get it somewhere else, but we never did. Further south and east, we rolled into Mandeville in continued sweaty heat. This was B&B style accommodation with fantastic rooms, except we never saw the owners, and the guests could free-range. We free-ranged like buffed-up chickens whose wings hadn’t been clipped. $5 for a glass of wine? How close can I get it to the brim? What if I put a soup bowl under it and accidentally keep pouring? Is that still only $5? OMG there is a brewery with 25 tap IPAs 50m away and restaurants everywhere. No wonder Mandeville was the home of wealthy people escaping New Orleans.

There is no shadow because the sun was directly overhead and bouncing up off the road

A check was made of the Metzeler Karoo front tire. Pretty much gone, one block was flat and the wear strips were now an essential part of traction with the road. This was serious. Some googlin’. Make some calls, then a miracle occurred, even more of a miracle than the Branson miracle. I got onto Brad at a motorcycle dealership in Slidell, just down the road. They didn’t have tires, but Brad knew people, loved Australians, and said things like “if they tell you they can’t help you, let them know I’ll come and visit them”. Then he said call Moto Julia, they are a Triumph dealer in Norleans, and talk to Destiny. OK Brad, you are now a beneficiary because you are the most helpful and positive human being on the planet. I called Destiny. One of the happiest telephone calls of my life. Help? She had never met me, could have said sorry, but even without the back story, moved mountains to sort me out. Right, I’ve checked, we have a 90/90 21” tire that will do, a Metzeler Tourance. Tomorrow? I’ll make it happen. Looking forward to meeting you!

When a tire has “plumber’s bum crack”, it is done

And on that incredibly positive note for me, we’ll let the reader rest. Until we poke at their exhausted ruin of a body and drag them into N’Orleans in Part 4 – spoiler alert via the longest land bridge in the WORLD! And as per the brand new tradition, closing on the map of our progress:

A C lu B i ns T i T u T ion - T he s ervi

By Tony Gray, Member #3905

If you look at the ‘ABOUT’ section on the Club’s website homepage you will find this: “Decreasing maintenance and running costs by mutual assistance on mechanical problems”. The regular service days staged by the club at Rob Wynne’s residence outside Jimboomba contribute heavily to fulfilling this club raison d'être.

The August service day saw a bumper attendance in number of attendees as well as variety of bikes. From single cylinder to four cylinder, airhead to wethead, two wheels or three - we had them all covered. Both of the bike lifts were pressed into service and the clubs tools put to good use. The GS911 tool is always popular -

this tool alone must have saved members many thousands of dollars over the years (this is our second updated model).

Just as important as the physical work undertaken on the day is the free exchange of ideas and experiences. If you have a problem

B i ns T i T u T ion - T he s ervi C e d A y

or just a question about your bikes operation then there is more than an even chance that someone in the club has been down that road and can offer a solution. Even if it is a ‘new’ issue then talking through the possible solutions with like-minded riders is more enjoyable than trolling the internet and sifting through a raft of different views. We also have those looking to invest in another bike. What better way to learn about the intended purchase than talking to an existing owner who you can trust to give an honest appraisal.

In the best Australian tradition we always have a sausage sizzle - nothing bonds people better than dining together - and what better than a sausage sanger covered in fried onions and sauce.

We are indebted to Rob Wynne for his ongoing support of the club with the use of his wonderful facilities and storage of our two bike

lifts. His premises are second to none with the only downside being a large dose of shed envy from the attendees.

If you are a new club member and are yet to attend a service day then don’t be shy, come along, have a great time and learn something along the way.

By Tony Gray, Member #3905

The Club uses Facebook as a communication tool and it has its advocates and detractors. The administrators have to be careful to vet people seeking to join the Club site for as we all know, the digital world is rife with scammers wanting to feed off others. A recent request from a Japanese traveler who was intending to ride in Queensland was warmly received. Over the ensuing weeks we got to know a little about Atsushi as we were able to offer advice about riding in our part of the world.

Atsushi duly arrived on 28 July and departed on 6 August so a short but fulfilling trip. I asked Atsushi if he would mind writing a story for us and suggested a few topics so that we might learn from his experiences. I also asked Nick & Mary-Jane Hese if they could add a little about their experience hosting Atsushi on their property outside Stanthorpe. Here are their stories:

About Myself and My Riding History (Atsushi)

My name is Atsushi Mizuguchi, and I live in Osaka, Japan. I’ve been riding motorcycles for over 10 years and currently own a 1986 BMW R100GS Paris Dakar. This bike is my pride and joy, especially for long-distance adventures.

The GSPD in Fukushima prefecture

A n i n T ern AT ion A l A ff A ir

My recent trip to Queensland was my fourth motorcycle trip in Australia. In the past, I’ve ridden mostly in the outskirts of Melbourne. However, this was my first time touring in Queensland, and the experience was unlike anything I’ve done before.

One of the biggest differences I noticed between Japan and Australia is the availability of convenient resting spots. In Japan, we have convenience stores almost everywhere, like the “petrol stations” in Australia, where you can easily stop, rest, and grab food. It’s a small thing, but it makes touring much more accessible.

Cold weather in Stanthorpe should not have worried Atsushi

Riding in Australia vs. Japan

Riding in Australia was a completely different experience from Japan. The roads are wide, straight, and quiet, with very few traffic lights outside the cities. It felt incredibly smooth and stress-free to ride for hundreds of kilometers with the same scenery stretching endlessly ahead — a powerful reminder of how vast this country really is.

In contrast, Japan is full of variety. Winding mountain passes, coastal roads, and river valleys make every ride dynamic and engaging. Within a single day, you can ride through the

A

sea, mountains, and countryside — that’s the magic of Japan.

In Australia, the distance between towns is significant, so planning fuel stops was essential. My Paris Dakar’s 34L tank is a huge advantage in Japan, but even then, careful planning is key.

Queensland Open Roads

Fuel readily available

What made the trip even more special were the local riders I met along the way. They were incredibly friendly — happy to chat, share route tips, and offer encouragement. These human connections were some of the highlights of my journey.

One major surprise for me was the number of mountainous roads. I expected long, straight inland highways, but in reality, there were winding routes through the hills and valleys. Wildlife crossings were a constant concern, and potholes or bumps in the road required constant focus — riding wasn’t always easy, but it was thrilling.

Another difference I appreciated was the lack of traffic lights. Outside city areas in Queensland, the ride was uninterrupted and smooth. However, road shoulders were often narrow and filled with gravel, making it difficult to stop safely for breaks. In contrast, Japan offers rest areas like “Michi-no-Eki” or convenience stores nearly everywhere.

Interestingly, fuel availability in Queensland was actually better than in rural Japan. In Japan, many stations close on weekends and holidays, which makes long-distance touring more difficult.

I do wish the rental shop had adventure-style bikes available. That would have made the trip even more exciting, but regardless, I was completely satisfied with my experience. (Ed: Atsushi hired a Honda CB650 from Eagle Rider in Brisbane).

As a teacher of English in Japan, this trip reminded me of the importance of real communication. Japanese students learn English for at least six years, yet many struggle to speak it. I feel the Japanese education system needs to go beyond grammar drills and test prep, and instead focus on real-world use.

This motorcycle journey helped me break through cultural walls, meet amazing people, and expand my world. It reminded me that travel isn’t just about the destination — it’s about the people you meet and the lessons you learn. The motorcycle was more than just a vehicle — it was a bridge between cultures.

My Recommendations for Touring Japan

If any BMWMCQ members are thinking about touring in Japan, I highly recommend the Tohoku region in northern Honshu. It offers a perfect mix of mountains, rivers, and ocean views — and is far less crowded than the tourist hotspots. In the summer, it’s cooler and incredibly refreshing, with peaceful roads and rich local culture. Onsen (hot springs) and regional food make the experience even more rewarding.

Another must-ride area is the Japanese Alps region, including Nagano and Gifu prefectures. The winding mountain roads offer breathtaking views and unforgettable riding experiences.

What makes Japan special is that you can enjoy mountain, coastal, and rural landscapes — all in a single day. Plus, the road infrastructure, services, and hospitality in rural areas make motorcycle touring both comfortable and culturally rich.

A n i n T ern AT ion A l A ff A ir

Ed: Atsushi mentioned in his FB posts of his interest in the Military so he was fortunate that his trip coincided with Operation Talisman Sabre based around Shoalwater Bay, near Rockhampton. Atsushi crossed paths with some of the hardware enroute. Another encounter, following recommendations from club members, was with the famous Goomeri Bakery where he got to enjoy their pies.

Meet the Military

A Local's Perspective (Nick Hese)

A week or so ago, whilst browsing the BMWMCQ Facebook page, I noticed there was a Japanese rider posting on our site. Seeing he was interested in exploring the Granite Belt (Stanthorpe area) I thought I might see him on the road. It turns out that the media made great claims about snow down here and accommodation was booked out, so it looked like he may not make it.

Mary-Jane and I regularly host overseas travelers in our stand-alone guest accommodation, returning the hospitality we have encountered in our extensive travels. We quickly offered our empty space and soon Atsushi was on his way for a special Aussie adventure! On a very cold and wet Wednesday afternoon, Atsushi arrived to find a warm fire and a welcoming word (and wine). When we had him warm, dry and settled we shared stories of the road and the wines of our region. Atshushi speaks good English as he is an English teacher in Osaka. Thursday was fine so we hit the road to Tenterfield and a few wineries to educate his taste buds. It seems we did too well as our wine, Bundy and Ginger Beer stocks dwindled!

We hope to see him again in the future on his R100GSPD, which he is keen to ride in Australia. It was a great experience hosting a traveller from a country we haven’t had much contact with and I can recommend everyone to host a traveller as it is a great way to make connections and help someone out. The reward - a big smile on their face and yours!

Introduction to the Australian Institution, Vegemite

Nick & Mary-Jane, Hosts Extraordinaire

By Tony Malone, Member #67

Wednesday 13 August 2025 was Brisbane Show Day. Clearly the State Government and the RNA had not consulted with our Club, as it clashed with our mid-week ride. Regardless of this conflict, the obvious choice was to go for a ride, rather than be tempted by fairy floss and strawberry ice-cream.

The meeting point was the BP on Settlement Road at The Gap; 08:30 for 09:00 departure. Living at North Ipswich, the best (i.e.most enjoyable) way for me is through Mt. Crosby and the Gap Creek Road. Crossing Colleges Crossing soon after 07:00 took me past the Karana Downs State School. I overlooked the 40kph zone (no flashing lights, no cars with children), and got that sinking feeling that this (being the 13th) is likely to be the day the Police have a radar up, meaning there go 3 demerit points and too many dollars. Then I realised (with relief) that it was a public holiday (Karana Downs is now part of the Brisbane Local Authority rather than that lesser Ipswich and formerly Moreton Councils) and so I felt better.

With the world no longer against me, the public holiday meant less traffic on Moggill Road and similarly along Gap Creek. I arrived well before 08:30 only to find quite a few members already

there. Thet came along for the ride on his later model G/S and it was good to catch up with him, and make sure that he was introduced to the number of new members our Club now boasts. Dave Harvey was our ride leader, and after giving his briefing it was time to hit the road; first stop Toogoolawah.

As a sign of my advancing years, and maybe the medication that the doctors tell me that I need to take, the call of the bladder often interferes. I had not wisely used my time at the BP to “take a break” before the ride commenced, and on Mt. Nebo I needed to stop to answer the call of nature. Paul Hughes was our tail marker, and apologising for causing this disruption he waited until the call was answered.

We proceeded along the Northbrook Parkway, and in creek crossings where the topography levels rode past someone who had misjudged the corner and taken a spill. There were quite a few people attending to the rider (who sat propped against the concrete siding), and with my thumbs up question “do you need help” being answered with thumbs up “all is okay” I continued. Discussion later reflected on how photographers on the side of the road (and there was one at the start of the descent, and one just past said accident) can cause riders to

A A lT ern AT ive

lose objectivity and continue to ride through the same corner at increasing lean angles, knee drag etc. hoping that the best shot will be captured. We already have what was 100kph reduced to 80kph (still relatively enjoyable) to 70kph (barely challenging) and the probable 60kph just around the corner. The roads are not a race track, but equally they are not drive-ways!

Anyhow back to the ride. At the intersection the turn was right towards (but not to) Somerset Dam. Again, a road that was quite safely 100kph is now 80, through turning to 100 again a few kilometres later. The day was bright and sunny and not too cool, but the forecast was for some showers and possible afternoon storm, and so it was enjoy the Sunshine!

At the next intersection it was left along the Esk Kilcoy Road (repeating, we were not going to Somerset Dam) with a right onto the Mt. Beppo Road after O’Sheas’s (Brisbane River head) Crossing. Very scenic. Dave then had us turn left onto Ostrofskis Road (which the map shows me takes us past the actual Mount Beppo) then along Old Mount Beppo Road to the Brisbane Valley Highway and Toogoolawah. Morning tea was at Hav’A’ Chat Café, where we had a table out the back (Dave had booked) next to what used to be the rail line, and is now something used by cyclists, walkers etc.

I was caught with a telephone call as everyone was packing to leave; however as I knew the route to the Cressbrook Dam destination from our briefing, I agreed with Paul that I would catch them up somewhere along the way

(remembering my inclination to ride alone). Some riders were confused and followed some leaving the group and heading South along the BV Highway, whereas the ride travelled along Dingyarra Street onto the Toogoolawah Biarra Road. This follows to an intersection with the Esk Crows Nest Road, where a left turn took us towards Esk and the next turn on the road towards (but in our case not to) Hampton. As an aside; turning right takes one to the Tablelands along a newly constructed road with only a short section of dirt before Crows Nest – an enjoyable and most scenic trip. I was still alone as I joined the BV Highway into Esk, turning onto the Esk Hampton Road. It was here, just past Redbank Creek that I rejoined the group. We headed up the hill, dropping to 60kph where it used to be 100, and at the roadworks traffic light took the right turn to the Cressbrook Dam. It is quite a long descent from the top of the ridge, and we gathered at the lakeside.

There was no catering here, and so everyone seemed to have brought along their luncheon treats. It was wonderful by the Dam, and more tall stories were told. Even though a few had left along the way, and some had joined, we had about 15 to 20 people. A great ride and wonderful destination. However it was here that the forecast rain joined us, thankfully with only a few light showers.

And then it was time to leave. Thanks to the organisers, and to those taking part. As always I reflect on how great it is to ride with the group when truly I amAlone.

Club Mileage Awards

Have you clocked up 100,000km, 200,000km or more on one bike?

To celebrate the epic achievements of these milestones, the Club will be issuing Mileage Award Medallions and Certificates to those who qualify. It can be for any make and model of bike that has reached these impressive kilometres in your ownership, and must still be in your ownership.

To nominate your bike, email our Secretary: secretary@bmwmcq.org.au with:

• Photo of the bike or you with bike - this photo will feature on your certificate so a good quality photo will enhance the certificate.

• Where and when purchased and mileage at time of purchase

• Photo of the odometer to show the kilometers.

Presentations at the monthly meetings for those that live locally – so get your details in!

Smart Rider Academy have the below courses scheduled for just $50, including the Level 2 course. Remember you can claim the $50 back with the Training Subsidy program (see below).

BMWMCQ TRAINING COURSE SUBSIDY

Our club encourages all members to continue to improve as a rider and offers a financial incentive to foster greater uptake in rider training. A broad interpretation of training has been adopted to include First Aid Training and Traffic Accident site safety management. The intention of the subsidy scheme is to not only improve the road craft of individual members but also to enhance the safety and enjoyment of club runs and events for all participating members. These are the simple rules to qualify for a subsidy:

1. Every financial member is eligible.

2. Subsidy is limited to one in two years for each member eg subsidy June 2024 re-eligible June 2026.

3. Subsidy provided in the form of a $50 reimbursement after course has been completed and invoice presented to the Treasurer.

4. The applicant must present details and receive approval for the intended training course from the Club Secretary prior to the course being undertaken.

There you have it, an incentive to help to make you a better and safer rider. If you undertake a course please let us know your thoughts on the success of the course, positive or negative.

AdverTising & BMW suPPorTs

Brisbane BMW Motorcycle Specialists

Need your BMW motorcycle serviced? We can also help ensure your pride and joy stays in top nick. Northside Motorcycle Tyres and Service has the latest software for BMWs enabling us to re- set service reminders, and assist with diagnostic testing and component testing making it more efficient to solve any problems with your bike. Log book servicing which won’t void your warranty. Book in for a BMW motorcycle service today with our expert team and you can be confident that Your pride and joy is in good hands.

BMW Motorcycle Tyres & Accessories

Planning on hitting the road soon? Stop by our showroom to check out our great range of tyres, luggage bags and riding gear to suit Adventure or Sport Touring.

FREE BMW Motorcycle Safety Inspection Report

But perhaps more importantly, be prepared before you head off! Book in for your FREE safety inspection report. This simple check can mean the difference between a hassle-free ride versus getting stuck on the side of the road with no phone coverage a long way from the nearest town. SHOP ONLINE FOR ALL YOUR MOTORCYCLE TYRES & ACCESSORIES WITH THE ADDED BENEFIT OF AFTERPAY “BUY NOW, PAY LATER” HTTPS://NSMCTYRES.COM 1/14 Paisley Drive Lawnton Qld 4503, Phone 07 3205 6505 Email info@nsmctyres.com

From business card to full page, all sizes are available. The BMWMCQ electronic journal is distributed to members and interested parties throughout Queensland and basically anywhere that has the internet. In addition, the journal is issued to other BMW affiliated Clubs. Get your message out to people who own, ride and restore BMW motorcycles Phone your requests to -

Hill City “people watching” lunch venue at the Sturgis Motorcycle Rally in South Dakota - Photo Cindy Bennett

BMWMCQ BOOK EXCHANGE

NEW BOOKS AVAILABLE!

Race to Dakar

Extreme Frontiers

Charley Boorman

Charley Boorman (Racing Across Canada)

What If I Had Never Tried It

Valentino Rossi (The Autobiography)

The Road to Mali

Craig Carey-Clinch

No Room for Watermelons Ron & Lynne Fellowes

A Motorcycle Courier in the Great War

Australia Motorcycle Atlas

Captain W.H.L. Watson

With 200 Top Rides (6th Ed) Hema Maps

Overland Magazines - issue #’s 11; 19; 21; 22; 25; 26; 27; 28 and 29.

Adventure Bike Rider - issue #’s 44; 46; 51 and 53

The Touring Motorcycle Jeff Ware & Kris Hodgson

BMW Twins Mick Walker

BMW Boxer Twins Ian Falloon

BMW Motorcycles Bruce Preston

A Century of BMW Manfred Grunet & Florian Triebel

The BMW Story - Production & Racing Motorcycles Ian Falloon

Bahnstormer - The Story of BMW Motorcycles LJK Setright

BMW Company History

1972

BMW Munich

Berry on Bikes - The Hot 100 - Steve Berry

2UP and OVERLOADED

2 x On Tour with Compass Expeditions DVDs

The initiative is being overseen by Jane Gray and you can communicate with Jane via email at:

library@bmwmcq org au Arrangement can be made with the librarian to pick up & drop off at the monthly General Meeting or other arrangements can be made