Stanthorpe Loop Rides April 3 and 4, 2025
April 2 saw 10 riders travel to Stanthorpe dodging potholes and pouring rain.
The Stanthorpe loop rides saw 12 riders starting after a week of heavy rain. The cycling gods looked after us. The clip from the internet says it all. Potholes were everywhere on our way to Stanthorpe but the roads were fine for our loop rides.
By late afternoon we ventured across the flooded Quart Pot Creek and found our way to O’Mara’s Hotel where we caught up for a beer, plenty of stories and a tasty meal.
The next morning we had a power outage in Stanthorpe and can I tell you coffee machines need electricty.
Fortunately we had a late start and by 7:30am we were able to get a HOT coffee.
We started at 09:30hrs allowing time for riders to drive up. By the start the weather was brilliant. The countryside was very green, the roads quiet and it was not long before the group were at Storm King dam. You can see from Beacon's smile it was great riding.
The dam was very full, with no wind around so there were plenty of reflections - a treat for photographers.
A visit to the Pyramid and quick lunch at the Ballandean Hotel and we were on our way back.
We visited the RSL for dinner and some riders and partners went to see a show by Anh Do, the Vietnamese / Australian actor, author and painter.
Day 2 was another beautiful ride through apple orchards and stopping at the Jersey Girl Cafe for coffee and cakes before returning to Stanthorpe. We did find one rider taking a break and checking out the apples.
Thanks everyone for making this a great ride. See you again next year! Ian