Trip date: 4 Oct 2025
Participants:
- Russell Speldewinde – Series 200
- Michael, Lynne and Zoe Thomson – Range Rover
- Garry and Kerry Blagdon – Everest
- Sue Alexander and Merle Hunt – Rav4
- Chris and Christine Greet – MU-X
This was an easy, small group trip taking in the scenery and ambience of the Tallaganda National Park as we headed to Captains Flat to visit their monthly markets (first Saturday of each month). The designated LRC trip finished upon arrival at Captains Flat so, no breakfast or coffee included, and I know no-one lied!
Sue rang me to see if it would be okay to go in her Rav4. “No problem” I stated “we are only driving on some fire trails …….”
As it was a small group I delayed the start time to half-past at the Spotlight carpark in Queanbeyan. I picked up Merle from my future residence on my way out to Queanbeyan. That was enough for Merle and she was quick to jump in with Sue for the rest of the drive!
The weather was perfect for a spring drive, with clear skies and just a touch of crispness in the air as we gathered in the morning. Spirits were high as everyone caught up over a quick chat, sharing excitement about exploring new tracks and enjoying a relaxed day out. As we set off, the convoy moved smoothly, with each vehicle taking its place and drivers exchanging friendly waves with passing locals, setting the tone for a laid-back adventure.
The designated trip commenced at Spotlight however Chris and Christine joined us Hoskinstown.
Supposedly Fiona Winkler was going to wave to us from the farm gate as we drove past on Forbes Creek Road heading out of Hoskinstown. I didn’t see Fiona, but we did see Gary Vaughan driving towards Queanbeyan in his Ineos. Some nice views as we headed up the hill before turning south on Bald Hill Fire Trail. After clearing some branches on the track, we then encountered some water holes and ruts as we travelled along that fire trail. It was at this time I was wondering how the Rav4 would go and was hoping the puddles did not get any deeper.
All good. We continued along Bald Hill FT and crossed Palerang FT. After travelling another 500 metres we came to the planned next right turn only to find that the trip leader and not done due diligence. Deciding we could not drive down that walking track, we did a U-turn and headed back to Palerang FT. Turning left we had an easy drive along Palerang FT and Coxes Creek FT before turning onto Harold Cross and Captains Flat Roads and arriving at Captains Flat.
This was the end of the designated drive and participants then did their own thing, getting coffees at the Men’s Shed and wandering around the stalls at the community centre. We all then reconvened at a picnic area near the Miners Memorial and kids playground before everyone went their own way home.