JDCA Western Register: Western Winter Wander

Western Winter Wander.

A mildly cool morning start in Lithgow with a warm spot found for the crew briefing saw 31 JDCA members listening intently to what they were in for. After a few minor changes and the possibility of a detour in Oberon as the town decided to celebrate its 150 years with a street parade on the same day as our run- How Rude! Michael and Jess Tomlinson flagged the cars away and then continued along the route as the sweep car in Michaels “Jagazda” MX5. Karin and I went ahead and set up for some photos at the rail underpass in Tarana. There was a question here regarding the height of the bridge. There were 2 height signs, one on the left where all answers were to be found and one on the top which confused some competitors. Next was the morning tea stop at “The Avenue” Cafe at O’Connell. A small cafe in the old butcher’s shop which proved very popular with the members with some stating to return when next in the area.

Karin and I drove straight to Oberon to see if the parade was finished only to find it was still in progress. Fortunately it only affected the first car that even got stopped at the detour we organised. All others were able to travel along the correct route, phew. On to Jenolan Caves and our reserved parking, well no. So, off to the lower car park to count spaces and direct cars to them. Michael and Jess arrived not quite as last car with the hood down (Hutch would be proud). All cars accounted for and members now in the dining room for the 2 course meal and discussions of the run, all seemed happy. Next was the final question as all crews were told at the briefing to be observant from now until the end of the run. The final question was- What was my jumper referring to and the date on it at the drivers briefing? Answer- Repco Jaguar Mountain 1994. It was amazing how many people knew the answer. After desert the winners were announced. As so many people did so well with the questions it finally came down to 2 crews scoring 100%. Neatness counts, both neat, spelling, both crews could spell; OK we have 2 winning crews.

The winning crews for bragging rights only scoring 100% were-

Debra and Tony Pallas.

Jane and Roger Liddle

After lunch crews settled in their rooms however, for some Manuel from Faulty Towers was preparing the rooms so some had to wait a while to move in. After sitting by the fire for a while we went down to the Lucas Cave for the Murder Mystery “Married to the Mob” this included an interval cave tour. I don’t agree with the conclusion that Margo murdered Frankie Sardini, but that’s another story.

Back to Caves House for a chat and drink until dinner at 7pm. This is where Karin and I bid adjure and departed for home.