Mt Piper Ride 4th Dec 2025

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Last time I visited Mt Piper it was a big wheel in the NSW power supply. Today it represents only about 1/3 of the total. Wind and solar are now the predominant energy sources in NSW. Mt Piper is scheduled to play a support role rather than the base load role it had played in the past.

A fascinating view into the past!

17 riders arrived at Macca’s Vineyard for the ride to the historical Mt Piper Power Station. Situated between Portland and Wallerawang, there were a number of possible routes to the well supported visitor’s area, I selected the one that would get everyone there without the need to spend time on the gravel.

I was hopeful that we would see all at the destination. It was not to be so. We lost one rider before we even left the Macca’s. Rob T had seniors moment stepping off his bike at the refuelling garage so now we were down to 16. (hope the knee improves Rob), Frosty left before morning tea so we were now down to15 who all arrived at South Bowenfels for morning tea without need to corner mark.

From there we headed out past Lake Lyall to the Hampton Rd intersection and turned north toward Rydal, a delightful small town on the route. A short stint on the Great Western Hwy took us to Sunny Corner Rd which was the jump off towards Portland and the Power Station.

It was a hot day, so the shaded picnic spot was much appreciated. Some visited the display before beading for the airconditioned shop at The Fruit Bowl at Bilpin for further refreshments and possibly further contentious conversation.

It turned out to be a pretty long hot day in the current conditions and I was glad to get back home into the cool Northern Beaches’ environment.

Thanks to ‘Africa Twin’ Peter for keeping the flock together as TEC.

Enjoy the Christmas Party on Wednesday next week we will be thinking of you all.

Cheers Jim

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