PADPAL from Berowra 23rd April 2026

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 With so many on the "Not the Mudgee Ride" it was left to 6 riders to start the PADPAL. I say start as we dropped riders along the way. Plan was for smoko at Ebenezer Church on the banks of the Hawkesbury River, then onto Grey Gums for lunch. All went well, we even found Halcrows Rd off Cattai Ridge Rd as there are major road works at the intersection. As ride leader I arrived in 3rd place even though we were on the same Sackville Ferry trip. Lots of talk was had along with scones and tea - a great way to enjoy the company and day. A mutiny was had where the group decided to change the lunch destination, whereby as leader I objected and required the mutineers to go through leadership for any changes. Okay, we agreed to change to Wisemans Ferry for lunch. But only 3 headed that way, losing 2 at the church and another at Wisemans Ferry Rd - they had other interests. Luckily I managed to remain at the front and not come 3rd again, as this would have meant performing both Leader & TEC duties - oh the pressure!!!. So along River Road then up to Old Northern and onto Wisemans. As there were only three of us I decided to keep them on their toes and changed lunch to Hawkins Lookout - nice spot, picnic tables, no toilets, plenty of trees. Lunch complete we headed home on Old Northern Rd where we split up at various places. Overall a great day to be out riding even in small numbers, enjoying the weather and some great roads that exist around Sydney.

John R

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