Another fine winter’s day for riding. Clear skies, cool air, and just enough warmth in the sun to keep the spirits high.
When I rolled into Loftus Oval, there was our fearless leader John — back in the saddle after six weeks off the bike. It was good to see him again, even if he was keeping the day’s plan a mystery. Soon after, Martin arrived, followed closely by Tunnels, bringing our group to a solid four riders.
With no particular destination in mind, I suggested a backyard cruise to Como Marina Café — a local gem and a fine spot for morning coffee.
We headed off through Engadine, then turned right onto Heathcote Road. The right-turn arrow at the lights wasn’t feeling generous, and John, acting as Tail End Charlie, got left behind. I pulled over a bit further down the road to wait — but when he finally appeared, I couldn’t make out if it was him in the mirror, so he kept rolling. We caught up a bit later after he’d turned onto New Illawarra Road.
The ride took us past ANSTO at Lucas Heights, then onto the Bangor Bypass, over the Woronora Bridge, and up to Tudar Road. This section weaves through a tight 50kph zone — even tighter near Bonnet Bay Public School at 40kph. At the roundabout, we took a left to explore Bonnet Bay — just for a peek — before returning to head up Soldiers Road.
Just at the Give Way sign, Martin’s bike decided it needed a break and stalled. Fortunately, local traffic hero Russell happened to be driving past and offered assistance. Martin was soon up and running again.
From there, we dropped down toward Jannali Train Station, crossed the bridge, then took the scenic route past Como Public School (yet another 40kph zone) and the once-famous Como Butchery (closed in 2019, but still remembered). Then on past the historic Como Hotel — watering hole of the great Henry Lawson. As legend has it, Lawson used to row across from his house to the pub, reciting poems in exchange for beer. Now that’s creative writing.
Soon we arrived at our destination — the beautiful Como Marina Café. A peaceful spot by the water, sun shining, caffeine flowing. Couldn’t ask for more.
Lots of History passed around this morning. John lived in Bonnet Bay and his daughter Justine was one of the first pupils to attend Bonnet Bay Public School which opened in June 1979. On 20th July 1979, Her Royal Highness Princess Anne visited Bonnet Bay and officially opened the new school, which had welcomed its first 200 pupils the previous month. The Princess, as president of the Save the Children Fund, had asked to see a typical Australian school, and Bonnet Bay Public School was chosen. Early days John would hire a boat from the Marina and drift down the Georges River with a fishing line over the side.
Heading home, the morning threw us one last surprise. Tunnels’ Ducati wouldn’t start. We gave it a push up the hill and tried a clutch start — no luck. Fortunately, the Marina mechanic came to the rescue, checked the voltage, and brought out a jump starter, which got the Ducati going.
We made our way to CODA for a check-up. The helpful crew diagnosed the issue: the battery wasn’t charging. Looks like Tunnels will need his Ducati electrician to sort it out.
As for me — glad to have led the ride, but I’ve decided that navigating the metropolitan maze is no longer for me. The next one I lead will be out in the wide open, where mirrors don’t deceive and lights don’t trap!
Perry #28669
