Happy New Year everyone; l truly hope it is a happy, healthy and filled with riding opportunities.

There has been much happening recently; one event being the successful Beach of a Rally, thanks to Brian and Coralie, together with all those who quietly just get on with helping in the background. As one of those who attended a big thanks to you all.

 

Of great note was the participation of one member, known as "The Streak" who through his courageous efforts raised over $400 to go to the Ulysses Club Arthritis Research Fund. Good on Tony Cairns who produced $100 to start this event off. Not a bad effort from those attending who also supported well, the Saturday Evening Raffle. A fun time was had by all and the future of the event is well assured.

 

Perhaps a "Streak Off" next year between the Victorians and our own local member "The Streak" might not be too much to consider??

 

Tony Cairns has had a cloth patch made to commemorate the event "BEACH OF A RALLY SOUTHEND 2012 I WAS THERE AND SEEN IT ALL" I have 6 of these remaining at $10.00 each, available only to those that attended the rally. Tony is once again donating the proceeds to "UCARF".

 

Our Branch involvement at the Boandik Lodge Crouch Street Aged Care Facility was one of those events where the smiles on the faces of the elderly residents was all the thanks that was needed by those who rode in and displayed their bikes, talked to the residents and listened to their stories reminiscent of days gone by.

 

Recently Helena ventured off on her own, riding to Mildura to attend a Ulysses National Committee Meeting (it was her first solo long trip). I joined her on Friday evening, not being able to leave until after work. The point of mentioning this is that preparations for the National AGM to be held there are going very well, with over 3,500 members registered so far to attend the event.

 

We ventured homeward detouring via Barmera where Helena was invited to chair the Mallee Branch AGM; it was a long day and we returned home slightly tired, at 8.45 that evening.

 

You've received via secretary Gerry, the very sad news that founding member Stephen Dearnley, fondly known as Ole #1 or the Bollard, passed away on the 11th February. There is to be a memorial service for "Ole Number One" in Mildura on the Thursday afternoon of the event; the numbers are expected to swell well beyond the above figure. An event not to be missed!

 

Badges to commemorate the passing of Ole #1 will be available for purchase at the Event, with proceeds going to UCARF.

 

Today, Sunday 26 Feb, there was a Breakfast run to Nelson planned, followed by our attendance at the Lions Club Family Fun Day at Blue Lake Sports Park. It was not until only the 4 members present at the assembly point were informed of the Total Fire Ban in Victoria that the breakfast was cancelled. We simply went to the Whistling Cat for a coffee and a chat and met up with other members there.

 

The Branch committee will discuss a policy to put into place for when the temperature is expected to reach over certain degrees.

 

The Family Day ran regardless and in spite of the heat of the day, the line up was constant.

Perhaps a little sadly there was only one sidecar available to take children for rides at the Fun Day. This gave a very gallant Rory very little respite but he undertook his duties with a big grin! Tony, Chris McGowan, Helena and I were on hand to assist where we could. It is not only for people who suffer from disabilities who are taken for rides but also other family members who need a break, giving them the opportunity to have some fun things to do.

 

The Lions Club are great supporters of this annual event, ensuring that everything is running smoothly. They provided us with lunch and a cool drink.

 

This event is a great and needy service and is held on the last Sunday of February each year - we would dearly love to see more members there next year - being involved in the community in this way is rewarding.

 

Of importance is our own Branch Elections which are to take place with our AGM to be held at the RSL Club Mount Gambier on the 29th April 2012. Secretary Gerry has notified members of this date on a few occasions and has provided nomination forms. Please consider nominating for a position. At the AGM all positions will be declared vacant so come on, consider being involved in the running of your Branch.

 

I particularly wish you to note that after excellent service to the Branch, Treasurer Terry Seebohm has decided not to stand for 2012. Is there anyone out there with some financial background / experience? If not Terry is happy to assist during the transition period.

 

I have written previously on succession planning and wish to state again that all members of the current committee are prepared to assist any member wishing to be involved in their Branch by being nominated onto the Committee, in the transition phase.

 

Appointed Merchandise Officer Giovanna has enjoyed collating the purchase of the new Branch Shirts - the refreshing colour is certainly very fashionable at the moment; it is hoped that the delivery of the shirts would be prior to everyone leaving for Mildura; it will be great to seeing them worn en mass.

 

For those member travelling to Mildura - safe and enjoyable adventures.

 

Keep the shiny side up!

 

David Gritton