Twice at Tamworth
Vintage Japanese MC Rally
3-4 March, 2018 – Tamworth, NSW
The VJMC completed its two-year stint in the NSW city of Tamworth on the first weekend of Autumn, where predicted showers were replaced by hot humid weather. Nevertheless a bumper entry in excess of 200 turned out, up on last year, for an excellent weekend which began with a meet & greet barbeque at the rally HQ, Paradise Caravan Park, on Friday evening. The following morning it was an early start in the cool of the day for a short run up to the lookout where an excellent breakfast was served while rally-goers took in the expansive view of Tamworth city. Most then saddled up to depart at 9am. It was a well-attended and wellmarshalled ride, heading north out of town on Fossickers Way, turning left at Attunga to Somerton and Caroll Gap. Then it was a scenic run through “big sky” country around Lake Keepit and over Stegga Mountain into Manilla where morning tea was taken at the Manilla Heritage Museum. By 11 am it was time to hit the road again, back to HQ where the bikes were lined up in their various categories for judging. For the next few hours the place was packed not just with rally entrants, but spectators and onlookers from Tamworth itself who took advantage of the free classic motorcycle show featuring beautifully presented and some rare marques on display. On Saturday evening it was time to head to West Tamworth Leagues Club for dinner and presentation of awards, with rally organiser Paul Rowling doing the duties as MC. The following morning saw a short ride take place through Kootinga, Nemingah and back to HQ. While most packed up for the trip home, locals and some stalwarts attended the “Stragglers Dinner” on Sunday evening at Tamworth City Bowling Club. It was another great VJMC Rally and a credit to the organisers who did a fine job. For 2019 and 2020, the rally will be based on the Queensland Gold Coast.