Participants:
Faye – Challenger
Rose – Colorado
Deidre – Suzuki
Sue & Cherrie – Prado
Carole (& Matt) – Patrol GQ
Bev (&Greg) – Patrol
Lisa & Zara – Patrol
Vanessa (tail end Charlene) – Isuzu
Judy & Hayley – Prado
Narelle & Maria – Navara

Will we get to do some tracks? After a week of rain we all wondered the same thing, but after a recce on the Saturday, Faye assured us that the tracks were in good condition and that “Ladies Day” would indeed go ahead…….

So 9 vehicles assembled at the northbound twin servos on a surprisingly sunny Sunday morning in anticipation of a great day exploring some tracks in the Watagans. We numbered off following convoy procedure and headed  north on the M1, with Greg and Matt along for the ride as our very quiet token males for the day.

Rose joined our convoy at Mandalong, and we headed to Cut Rock Road via Deaves Road and Sauls Road. Before long we came to the end of the tar, and it was time to see how well we’d watched our husbands/partners air down with those funny little deflator gadgets…..and who actually remembered to bring said gadget! Luckily Faye had spares, and soon we were ready to tackle some tracks.

Our first challenge was a stretch of muddy track with fairly deep ruts, but after inspecting the track we all got through, with vehicles and track unscathed. Deidre was again thankful for Suzi’s 1 1/2 inch lift.

Muir’s Lookout gave us a clear view over Tuggerah Lakes, and provided an education for one young passenger who was astounded to discover that there was actually such a thing as a non-flushing toilet! Explanation provided and we were on our way again. The ladies all enjoyed McKenzies Road, a short track but requiring some technical low-range driving, followed by morning tea at the Pines picnic area. Our trusty trip leader offered bribes to volunteers for the trip reports (great slice, thanks Faye).

Back on Watagan Forest Road we had a slow drive due to the poor condition of the road, but no one minded as the forest looked spectacular after all the rain. Our tail end Charlie kept our convoy together, and became affectionately known as “tail end Charlene”…it was ladies day after all. This somehow evolved to Shazza as the day went on, all in good fun.

Georges Road required more low range driving, and some “walking” up and down sandstone steps. Narrowneck Place Lookout and 125r Lookout had many of our group  ooh-ing and aah-ing at the magnificent vista.

Back onto the blacktop, we aired up before heading to Ellalong Hotel for a late lunch. We all agreed the food was worth coming back for another time.  Everyone was in good spirits all day. Some drivers challenged themselves a little and did themselves proud.

Ladies Day was a huge success thanks to Faye and a lovely bunch of ladies (& a couple of male passengers). If anyone in the club hasn’t yet had the chance to participate….what are you waiting for? Get in early and book your spot when it comes up again.

Judy Reeds.