Ride Reports and News
As at 17 January 2026
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Abbreviation Key:CVBN = Chain Valley Bay North, CVBS = CVB South, JDR or JD = Jenny Dixon Reserve, WBD = Wilfred Barrett Drive, CCH = Central Coast Highway, CCC = Central Coast Council, PH = Pacific Highway, BBB = Bateau Bay Beach, SLSC = Surf Life Saving Club, (M)SRA = (Munmorah) State Recreation Area, Nic/Nikki = Nicolette, FT = Fernleigh Track, ARS = Adamstown Railway Station, CW = Clockwise, CBR = Canberra, ACW = anti-clockwise, Lizzie Bay = Elizabeth Bay, LBD = Lizzie Bay Drive, PHWY = Pacific Highway, OCR = Ourimbah Creek Road, PBL = Prawn Beach Lane, HMO = Harry Moore Reserve, MSCA = Munmorah State Conservation Area. LBG = Lake Burley Griffin.
Reports -
Rolf and his team re-grouping - 16 January 2026
TDCC Coasters – Friday 16 Jan 2026
A happy crew gathered at JD with faith in BOM Radar or just out anyway for a casual morning ride. Chris joined us at Wyongah for the scenic ride down Prawn Beach Lane. Short stop at Tacoma, then along the riverbank to the turn off up Hillcrest Ave to Wadalba. A couple of ‘6 sec-traffic lights’ on the way to the wetlands.
At Charmhaven pedestrian refuge we crossed the Highway to the path up to the clanking footbridge, then along the shared path to Budgewoi (got to love the well-trained tiny tots on their little bikes), then on for sociable refreshments at Lakes Beach. Thanks to all for making it enjoyable and to Keith on the sweep.
Rolf
Morning tea with Danny at Lakes Beach - 16 January 2026
Group 2 CVB loop via MSRA and return via San Remo
At Peel St and the ride. Ten riders turned up on day the BOM said no rain was due till late in the day, so no raincoats packed. The riders in sign-on order were James, Michael B, Chris, Keith, David, Len, Hans, Trevor, Rolf and Karen. Barry called in to say hello before going on a solo ride to The Entrance and back. James was the ride manager and Len the sweep.
After the briefing, we set sail for Noraville, not much traffic for the time being, next was a stop at Slade Park Budgewoi. All accounted for, we set off towards Lizzie Bay with the daunting climb up Birdie Beach Drive. The gun riders were advised to go ahead and to regroup at the Pacific Highway where Blue Wren Drive meets the Highway.
Luckily, not too much traffic going through the MSRA, but a few riders were exhausted at the top of the hill. Blue Wren Drive was pleasant to ride along, and we soon caught up to the first group without them waiting too long. We were concerned it would take a while to get the green light as there were only 10 of us to set off the magnetic vehicle detector under the road. Luckily it changed quite quickly but Michael and James were caught out, not seeing the lights go green as they were discussing the problems of the world. All turned out ok and we crossed the Hwy with a little time to spare.
Pushing on along Kanangra Drive, we were soon to be disappointed as a road works sign informed us that the dirt link road was being graded. The lollypop man would not let us through, so we had to turn around and ride back along Kanangra Drive before turning right at the Hwy. All good so far until we tried to cross over the Hwy to turn right into Chain Valley Bay Rd. The amount of traffic and the speed it was going plus the road work on the new intersection made it difficult to cross the Hwy. The first group that made it across then slowed to walking pace to allow the tailenders to get around and catch up with the first group, there was no safe place to stop as the road has only a small shoulder.
Past that hurdle, we were soon in Josh Porter Reserve at CVB. While having a chat Len informed us that rain was on the way at noon, so we decided to end our 15-minute break and push on to Doyalson. At Doyalson we decided to forgo the Blue Haven loop, as a storm was on the way. At this point David, Len and Keith advised us they were leaving the group as they had ridden to Peel St. Rolf and Trevor advised us they would be leaving us at Buff Point and Budgewoi respectively.
As we arrived at Edgewater Park the thunder had arrived, this meant lightning was the cause. Chris then advised us that we were riding away from the storm, so we continued our way to the Lakes Beach for coffee. Karen left us at this stage.
On arrival at the Café, we were greeted by Danny and Tony who had a delay in the morning, realising he had missed the start of the ride, he rode all the way from the Dora Creek area to the Lakes Beach, a return trip of 80kms, great effort Tony. Luckily not many people around, we had a nice table with a big umbrella that Danny had sat patiently waiting for us, thanks Danny. We missed most of the light rain that fell, lucky as most of us had no raincoats.
Tony and Chris left us at Evans Road, only James and Hans continued to Peel St. The ride was about 42 kms, average speed around 20km/hr. All in all, a nice ride even with the light rain.
Thanks to all those who turned up today for the ride, Len and Chris for sweeping. Don’t forget the club’s fees need to be paid by the AGM.
James
[Sorry, no photos]
Morning tea at Better Days - 9 January 2026
Coasters Blue Bell Park loop 9 January 2026
Before the ride. With the weather the way it was going to be, we considered what options we had so the ride could go ahead. As we know, when the temperature goes above 35°C, it poses health problems, especially for the more mature athletes. This being the case we consulted the BOM website, the Sports Medicine Australia (has been issued to all members previously) and the HeatWatch App from Sydney University. From the BOM website we could see that a strong NE wind was to be prevalent all day. We could see that the temperatures on the west side of the lake were up to 5° hotter than close to the Ocean and at the bottom of Tuggerah Lake [glug]. We concluded that if we stayed close to the Ocean and rode in the shade of the trees along the paths, we would fall below the dangerous level listed in the documents mentioned. A final check on arrival at JDR showed a temperature of 23°C, so it was decided the ride would go ahead.
At JDR and the ride. Nine riders fronted the starter's gun. They were, in sign-on order, James, Carol, Karen, Chris, Len, David R, Keith, Tony and Rolf. James was the ride manager and Keith the sweep. After the briefing, we set off towards the bike path at the end of Evans Road in so far pleasant conditions. The ride along the bikes paths to the Entrance was pleasant as we were shaded by the overhanging trees most of the way.
Lots of cyclists, joggers, and walkers on the path. As we were approaching the North Entrance, we were greeted by Nicolette, who had ridden her muscle bike to greet us. Her pride and joy was in the bike shop due to damaged derailleur that happened on her last ride in Newcastle. Carol and Huddo had also ridden from home to JDR as did the westies, David, Keith, Len, and Chris.
We had our usual comfort stop at North Entrance, then progressed to the bike path around the bottom of Tuggerah Lake. It was noticed that the people living at Picnic Point have been removed and the rubbish has been cleared away. Lots of tourists are in their place. The shared path was much busier than usual, and we had to keep our wits about us to avoid the traffic. We decided to stop at Blue Bell Park and return to the Better Days Café, and we did not want to be out in the hotter part of the day.
After our rest break at the park we headed back to Better Days with members giving James’s help to find the turn-off to the Café. On arrival at Better Days, we were greeted by our old mate Danny who had set up some tables and chairs for us. Thanks, Danny.[You're welcome!] While we were enjoying our coffee and cakes, Rod, who is Nic’s better half, turned up and joined us for coffee.
As we left Better Days, David returned home via Wyong, we wished him all the best. As mentioned it would be 5°C or more hotter out west. Carol and Huddo left us shortly after, and Nic rode back to the Entrance with us before returning home. The rest of meandered up the various bike paths towards JDR, the westies Keith, Len, Chris left us at Evans Rd, Rolf also went home around the same time.
Only Tony and James returned to JDR, where the temperature was 27°C. Checking the temperatures out west of the lake they appeared much lower than predicted, hopefully the same tomorrow.
Thanks to all those who turned up today for the ride and Keith for sweeping.
Don’t forget the club’s fees are now due.
James
Carol, Annie and Waz at morning tea - 7 January 2026
Ride Report Wednesday 7 January 2026
We assembled at Peel St under cloudy skies, but with warm weather. Only eight riders. I guess our members have busy lives currently. James, Carol, Virginia, David, Keith, Len, Anne, and myself. We were so busy talking we missed the start time. Len was very proud of the fact that prior to the start (at coffee with Keith) he was complimented by a driver on his signalling and road manners. We made him sweep so that we didn’t have to listen to the story again.
We rode off to Toukley Bridge, past Barry Smith backing out of his driveway, and on to Prawn Beach Lane where we were joined by Chris Boi. Off along the bike path to Tacoma toilets. It was here that a collective decision was made to stop for coffee at The Secret Café instead of Lakes Beach. My Ride Managing must have been off as a lot of the group wanted to leave at The Secret Café and go home. We rang Danny with the change of venue.
After leaving the scene of the mutiny we rode along the river and turned into Hillcrest Avenue and on to Jensen Road. Right into Pollock Avenue, then through the new estate to Wadalba to Minnesota Road. Up to Sparks Road and straight through the most recent estate to Hakone and Chelmsford Roads. Down the old Pacific Highway to The Secret Café. Danny was waiting. [I had already driven to Lakes Beach and back.]
A long, but pleasant, coffee break where decisions were made regarding who was leaving and who would continue to Budgewoi and complete the ride. James, Carol, Keith, Anne, Chris and the hapless Ride Manager continued to the wonderful Charmhaven Bridge (it’s falling apart), and around the bike path to Budgewoi. We had already decided to take the bike path on the western side of the road to the roundabout at Noraville, and we lost Anne and Carol here as they wanted to stay on the bike path. They did the correct thing, and we were in too much of a hurry. We lost Keith and Chris on the way back to Peel Street and Carol appeared shortly after. 47 Klms and 33°C back at the car.
Warwick.
Coffee at Secret Café - 7 January 2026
On arrival at JDR. On a beaut Friday morning 18 riders turned up at JDR. Doug and Chris shared the sweep duties and James was the ride manager. The riders in sign-on order were James, Linda, Col, Tony, Chris, Maree, Trish, David R, Estelle, Nicolette, Doug, Keith, Len, Graeme, Ray, Daryl, Merrilyn and Lyn. At the briefing, the ride was confirmed as a loop to Summerland Pt via Lake Munmorah, CVB and Kanangra Drive, returning via the MSRA or the RTA as it was named previously. As light rain fell Ray went back to Budgie to get his raincoat and arranged to meet him the Caravan Park at Budgie. Lyn advised us she would meet us at the same spot.
The ride. We set off towards Budgie at a leisurely pace via the unused road beside the golf course, our first stop was Slade Park at Budgie where we had a quick drink. From Slade Park we meandered under the bridge then past Mackenzie Park on our way to Lizzie Bay. Chris was excelling on his new bike up the gentle climbs. On arrival at Lizzie Bay, we stopped at a location we don’t normally stop as there were 18 riders present, so we needed more space. As the rain had stopped our members started to disrobe, thankfully to a modest level. After we set off again it was across the Pacific Hwy to Carters Rd where we stopped beside the schools to allow those riders caught at the lights to catch up. We deliberately joined the bike path on the paved section as the other entries were all by loose gravel that we found out on last Wednesday was very unstable. From Carters Rd we crossed the shared path bridge amongst the mangroves to North CVB where we had a long slight climb up Mulloway Rd. We then joined the dirt road to Kanangra Drive, thankfully the road was not muddy, but had lots of corrugated sections, a bit hard on those with false teeth. Next, we turned left into Kanangra Drive and had a great time spinning our pedals along a great stretch of road. Next it was downhill on Summerland Rd to the Summerland Point Boat Ramp where we were greeted by a Mr Whippy Style Van and lots of teenagers on e-scooters and e-bikes. Our gentle persuader Estelle approached the lads and advised them that their e-bikes/e-scooters were illegal. They gave her a bemused look indicating they did not know what she was talking about. Thankfully they were nice young men and took it in their stride. After a long break due to the great ambience, we pulled ourselves away and headed up Cams Blvd that must be one of the nicest areas to ride along, although the road needs a bit of TLC. From there we joined Kanangra Drive for a quick ride back to Blue Wren Drive in the MSRA or, if you like, the SRA. It was a quick ride from the start of Blue Wren Drive to Lizzie Bay with some of our riders going hell-for-leather. We were Joined by Virginia and John who rode with us back to the Lakes Beach for coffee. Trish was advised about the bump at the bottom of Birdie Beach Drive, thankfully it was removed when they removed the tolling booth. On arrival at Budgie, Doug and Co left the group while the Peloton carried on to the Lakes Beach for coffee and goodies. We had an extended break due to the pleasant surroundings, some of us took the opportunity to inspect the wild ocean swell. Col left us as his car was at the Lakes Beach, the Westies went West while the rest of us returned to JDR. See Nic’s photos on various web sites. Thanks to Doug and Chris for sweeping.
Safety. Trish had an incident when a driver pulled across her path at the junction of Lizzie Bay Drive and the Pacific Hwy. We were going right, while the driver turned left nearly collecting Trish - an accident was avoided due to Trish’s bike skills.
Helping hands informal concept and recovery bay. Best wishes to all our members and their partners who are ill or are recovering from illness.
Ride information. The ride was about 42kms, the average speed was 20 km/hr, the weather was great, around 25°C at the end of the ride, thankfully the humidity was low. Thanks to Doug and Chris for sweeping.
James
Morning tea at Lakes Beach
Rolf's team at Lemon Tree - 24 December 2025
Group 1 - No record found.
Group 2 - Wed 24 Dec 2025 OOT ride from Morisset along Mandalong Rd, over the ‘hill’ (Maree on only road bike up front, well done) and up through the beautiful valley to Lemon Tree. All bush, green meadows and tiny joeys as spectators. Pleasant, mostly downhill run back to the cars. Thanks for coming along and Merry Festivities to everybody!
Rolf
Maree on her mussell bike, and James behind trying to keep up - 24 December 2025
Skylarkers - Very hot day, so short ride. Down WBD to Bateau Bay, then across to Better Days for coffee. Back again for about 43km.
Coasters - The scheduled Ride for today was changed as the day's temperature was going to get very hot, so it was decided to take a shorter ride around the Budgewoi lake.
Eight riders arrived to ride today. James was at the start but with health issues he decided it would be better not to ride. Len also had an excuse for not riding as he was on Grandpa duties.
We headed off towards Budgewoi and we had quite a nice head wind. The pathway beside the lake was shaded and again we had some nice breeze from the lake. By the time we were heading up the highway towards the Secret Cafe we could feel it getting hotter.
Danny was waiting for us at the Secret Cafe under shade with some nice fans overhead. Len also popped in with Hendrix. We all enjoyed a drinks and chat before it was time to head off. Anne, Daryl and Ray decided to return to Jenny Dixon the same way we came instead of via Toukley Bridge. A good call. The rest of us live on the west side so made our way home.
The longest ride today was Chris 40.86km riding from Wadalba. The others rode around 30km. On the last hill to my house the temp on my Garmin showed 44.9°C. I was glad to get home and have a cold shower.
Thanks to all who rode today.
Virginia
Group 1 - Anticlockwise ride around Three Lakes. Better Days for coffee. 74km.
Group 2 - Ride report for 17/12/25. Loop of Bateau Bay Beach and Tumbi.
With a nice cool day on the horizon, 13 riders turned up at Peel for the trip to Bateau Bay Beach [BBB]. The riders were, in sign-on order, James, Carol, Chris, Linda, Doug, David, Keith, Len, Rolf, Tony, Karen, Jill and Trevor.
Carol was first on the scene as she had ridden from home. Just before the start of the ride we got a message from Karen that she would meet us at WBD. We soon sorted that out and told her to meet us at the start of the bike path at Evans Road. After the briefing we started out for Evans Rd and the bike path, then a ride along the bike path to The Entrance, lots of bike riders and walkers on the path - that was good to see.
We had our first stop at North Entrance where we were met by Jill and Trevor, who prefer to ride down WBD. After the break, we were off towards Toowoon Bay where Carol left the group as she had ridden from home and had other duties to attend.
BBB was our next stop where we spent a bit longer than usual due to the great ambience of the location. From there we were off towards Tumbi Umbi. We had a bit of a problem joining The Entrance Road due to a person putting a heap of large gravel on their driveway that led to the road. We were a bit worried about those with narrow tyres. Safely joining the Entrance Road, we safely crossed to Bellevue Rd as a group then headed for Tumbi R.
Joining Tumbi Road generally takes a while, but luckily, today, due to road works, the traffic was light, so again we crossed rather easily then we had some hills to tackle. We took it easy on the group allowing for the riders on the muscle bikes. We then took a left turn to Hansens Rd with Rolf acting as a marshall. It was a hard ride along Hansens Rd but the scenery and nice acreages made the ride pleasant although tough. Some riders decided the leader was too slow so took it on themselves to put the pedal down.
As we arrived at Wyong Rd, we got a phone call from Doug saying he, Keith and Rolf were going to visit Pedro and would meet us later for coffee. Great to see the boys keeping up with Pedro!
Soon we were on the bike path on our way to The Entrance. It was a sad sight at Picnic Point with the people living in tents and their rubbish piled up in the park.
We decided to check out the rules regarding riding on the Entrance Forecourt. We entered from the South where the signed banned everything except cycling, good news, but on leaving Tony spotted a sign at the North end saying no riding allowed, very confusing, we will follow up. Danny and Nic were not present as they had other commitments, so no retrieval service, luckily all went well. [Sorry!]
There were not many people around, the quiet before the XMAS break, so it was very enjoyable sipping our coffee and other beverages.
Jill and Trevor left us at this stage and rode home via WBD, Huddo (aka Karen) also left us to pick up her car at Nth Entrance. The rest of us headed across the bridge to Nth Entrance bike path. On passing some fisherpersons we saw a bloke who had just caught a nice flathead, the first time we have seen any fish caught around there.
The group then headed up the bike paths. We stopped at the car park and said goodbye to Rolf, Doug, David R, Keith, Chris and Len who advised us they would be leaving at the Harry Moore Oval.
The group said how much they liked the ride even though we encountered a lot of decent hills, the weather was great, the ride about 52kms, thanks to Doug and Len for sweeping.
No photos.
James
Dave, Estelle and Linda at Josh Porter - 10 December 2025
Group 1 - Windy day. Head west via Marks Road to Wadalba, Minnesota Rd to Hue Hue, Dicksons Road to Dooralong, then back via Jilliby to Wyong and back to JDR. Coffee at Oasis, Wyong. Over 70km.
Group 2 - Today’s G2 Ride with TDCC the 10th. of Dec. 2025
Fourteen Members of the TDCC turned up, with perfect conditions for a ride. The ride was as per the Calendar.
After a quick briefing and right on 9.00am, we were on our way to BW [don't know what that is]. We picked up another 2 Riders from the club to make it 16 of us.
At a steady pace we made it up to the SRA. A big effort for the 3 Riders on muscle bikes, the remainder cruised up the hill.
After a brief stop before crossing the Hwy, we were on our way to Gwandalan. Took the opportunity of the toilets there and a bit of a rest. Did the loop at Gwandalan through some of the back streets, and back on the main Rd. towards the Hwy. Since we were a bit spread out, we had a rest before we took on the Hwy. towards Doyalson & San Remo for our coffee break.
Due to some riders having appointments, a couple went straight home, and some taking a short cut home via their preferred coffee shop. We were then left with 10 riders, who gathered at “La Macchina”, our designated stop for Coffee, for a well deserved break.
After a slightly longer break than anticipated, we decided to make our way back to our starting point. Again we lost a few on our way, who went straight home. The remainder (4 of us) went back to Peel street. Thanks for everyone for taking part,
Great Ride, Hope all of us got back home safely.
CB.
Riders enjoying the peaceful Josh Porter Reserve - 10 December 2025
Skylarkers - Clockwise Tuggerah Lake Loop. 65km. Coffee at Better Days. Thanks Gaz!
Coasters - T&DCC Coasters JDR-Budgewoi Lake loop. 5 December 2025
Deciding what to do, ride or no ride due to heatwave. As always, the ride managers must decide whether to ride, not ride, or have a shortened ride to suit the conditions. After a worrying night of me trying to work out the best method, the senior members of the club were contacted for their opinion, it was decided to shorten the ride to avoid arriving at the Beach Haus for coffee at the hottest time of day.
We used the club's document relating to riding in the high temperatures and the BOM predictions for temperature and humidity. We found that the temperatures were just inside the boundary and the humidity levels were ok, the dew point that is a critical measurement for safe riding was well within the safe zone, so all being deemed safe we decided to go ahead with a shortened ride.
On arrival at JDR.
On arrival at JDR we were greeted by gentle ocean breezes that kept us feeling like it was going to be a great ride. We had 10 riders ready start the ride. They were, in sign-on order - James, Rolf, Keith, David R, Daryl, Len, Col, Chris, Doug and Virginia who rode part of the way. We also had a visit from Ray [88] who cycled from Budgewoi but decided a loop of the lake was too far at this stage, after coming from a cold climate. James was the ride manager, Doug and Chris shared the sweep duties.
The ride.
We were a bit late getting away as our lads decided to have a long chit-chat trying to solve the problems of the world. However, just as we were about to start, James’s bike threw a tantrum and dropped the chain while in the process of unloading his bike. Luckily Daryl and Keith were close by and had it fixed in no time, thanks guys.
All set to go and we headed for Harry Moore Oval, then Gorokan, where we had a programmed stop for a sip of water and a quick chat. From there it was along a few back streets before joining Dudley St. When we got near the school, we stopped to say goodbye to Virginia who had ridden from home. Luckily, we all obeyed the road rules as the boys in blue were parked on the other side of road, probably checking us out for illegal bike use. All legal, so ok to go.
After Dudley St, it was onto Panorama Avenue, then we crossed the horrible non-shared path on the bridge over Wallarah Creek, one day we might have a shared path, not the CCC responsibility. We then had a regroup after crossing the bridge and cycled along the beautifully shaded bike path that was pleasantly cool due to the trees and the breeze off the lake. Col left us at this point to return to his home in Blue Haven Heights as he had ridden to JDR.
Our next stop was Edgewater Park where we all commented about how cool it was due to the breeze coming across the lake. After leaving Edgewater Park we set off towards Norah Head, no incidents along the way, but as we were crossing the bridge over the canal joining the two lakes, an old bloke in a motorised wheelchair abused Chris with some nasty words, Chris in his calm manner let his remarks go through to the keeper. (a saying in cricket if you don’t want to play the ball).
Safely over the bridge, we set out for Noraville via the old road beside the golf course to get a bit of shade and avoid riding on the black bitumen. At Noraville, Doug, Keith, Len and David left us for coffee at Lou’s Café. Daryl, Chris, Rolf and James headed to the Beach Haus at Norah Head for coffee where we were greeted by Danny, no Nicolette as she had an appointment. So, us blokes talked for an hour before setting off home or back to JDR to pick up our Iron Horses.
In the circumstances a great ride without too much discomfort, thanks to all those riders who turned up, and Doug and Chris for sweeping.
Safety. No problems today, we all behaved ourselves.
Helping hands informal concept and recovery bay.
Best wishes to all our members and their partners who are receiving treatment or in recovery mode, also to Nicolette who had a fall and damaged her wrist, Nic has advised us she will not be riding for some time.
Xmas party.
Thanks to members and their partners who helped at the Christmas party as mentioned in the speeches made at the Xmas party, and to all those members and partners who cleaned up the Kitchen, washed all the crockery and silverware, and tidied up the Hall, and helped Barry and James with all the equipment being loaded into their cars. Obviously, we could not thank them beforehand as we did not know who would be helping. As it was, nearly everyone helped who could.
James
Skylarkers - With the weather a bit cooler today, the 'Larkers rode clockwise around Tuggerah Lake, with a short diversion to Bateau Bay. Coffee was at Better Days. Back through Tuggerah and Wyong. Most riders did about 57km, and Vic of course did 87.
Coasters - Fourteen riders arrived at Jenny Dixon this morning for today's ride. The day was looking good, sunny and warm but not as hot and windy as Wednesday.
We left JD and cycled towards the Toukley Bridge then Charmhaven and Bluehaven. Col left us there as he had already ridden to JD and had an appointment to get to.
We then travelled up the Highway to Rutleys Rd, turned left and followed the road along until the Mannering Park turn. I made a slight mixup at this turn, it’s been quite some time since I’ve ridden out there but all was ok in the end as everyone arrived safely at the Mannering Park Boat Ramp. It such a lovely spot we could have stayed much longer, it’s a pity there was no coffee van around.
Doug reminded me of the path along the lake so we headed off that way, coming back onto Vales Rd and back along Rutleys to the Hwy where we turned left and continued until Carter Rd. From there it was Elizabeth Bay Dve to Budgewoi and Lakes Beach for our coffee stop. Five riders continued on to Lou’s for their coffee which is just a little closer to their homes.
James was at Lakes Beach to meet us. He is still having problems with his hamstring and that is why I led the ride for him today. After coffee some riders headed back to JD while a few still sat chatting. When we got back to JD some of the early leavers were still in the car park chatting. So everyone got back safely. It was then only Chris and me to make our way home.
The ride was around 45k with those riding from home had distances up to 72k.
Thanks everyone who rode today and I’ll see you at our Christmas party next Wednesday.
Virginia
Group 1 - Tuggerah Lake circuit clockwise, with loop up Enterprise Drive and Footts Road to Palmdale. Then north along the highway to Tuggerah and back to start through Wyong and Tuggerah. 65km "Very hot - high 30s with a very strong hot NW wind. Not much left in the tank. JD" Amazing effort you guys!
Group 2 - TDCC Group 2 – Wednesday 26 Nov 2025
Eleven riders arrived for the day’s ride which was to take us to Wyongah and along Jensen Rd and Pollock Ave and onto Wadalba, Woongarrah, Charmhaven, Budgewoi and out to Norah Head for coffee, then back to Toukley.
On the way up to Hakone Rd the temperature was building up to a very hot day as forecast and the bidons were already well used. On the approach to a set of road work traffic lights on Hakone Rd, the group staged a ‘coup’ when they pulled up under a big shady tree for a pow-wow. On green light, the plotters caught up with the ride lead waiting under ‘his planned shady tree’. The people had voted: We’ll have coffee at the Secret Café. This made perfect good sense – why ride past that café with its shaded area and cool trees. Good move!
Four persons returned to Peel St and their cars afterwards with everybody else doing a beeline to their home AC. Thanks to all for coming along on such a hot day and to Doug for doing the tail gig.
Rolf
Photo break at Long Jetty - 21 November 2025
Skylarkers - Clockwise around Tuggerah Lake. Not very nice conditions, but no stopping these guys. Coffee at Better Days, Berkeley Vale. 59km.
Coasters - After some debate and light rain we set off. Thirteen including visitor Trish.
Down WBD cycleway to The Entrance. Somewhat wet by then. We voted to continue but upon reaching the boat ramp near Salt Water Creek, wetter and our planned route looked uninviting, decision made to cut our losses and head for coffee via Bonnieview and Eloora Rd. Dave left for home via Wyong and the rest soldiered on.
Danny managed to work out where and when coffee was [EuroBean]. After, we headed up WBD bike path where we encountered council workers dealing with a fallen tree. Thanks guys! Westies went west and the rest arrived safely at JD.
Thanks for coming on a far-from-perfect ride day.
Carol
Coffee at EuroBean - 21 November 2025. Nikki's photos
Nikki's photo on Bushells Ridge Rd - 19 November 2025
Group 1 - Ride Tuggerah Lake Loop, a/c, including Palmdale detour, back on Enterprise Drive to Chittaway. Coffee at Better Days, up Swadling to Toowoon Bay, then back up WBD for 66km. Well done!
Group 2 - Ride Report Wednesday 19th November 2025
A beautiful day with 16 members in attendance at Peel Street. Doug Tucker again volunteered to be Sweep.
We set off on time with no distractions. Out around Aldi, down to Toukley Bridge, and through Mary, Hay ad Dudley Streets to Charmhaven and that awful bridge. We then took the smaller option (Blue Haven Loop) and across the Link Road to Doyalson. I think Mark Smith had enough of us on his mountain bike and left at this point.
We then travelled west towards Wyee and turned off at Gosford Road. Still heading west, over the main Northern Railway line and past the now obsolete “Gravel Road” sign??? Out over the M1, where a worker was repairing the biggest pothole I have seen at the start of the bridge, and on to Hue Hue Road where we encountered more large potholes.
After all those previous hills we were rewarded with the huge downhill. We continued until we reached the new industrial park and used their very good roads until we reached the end of Sparks Road near the M1 off ramp.
Then east down Sparks Road until we reached the turnoff to Warnervale Road. As we crossed the road to make a turn to the right at the lights, (in our usual orderly fashion), a truck driver working on road repair berated some members with some choice words. These truck drivers are always holding up traffic and should be showing patience as we are forced to do when they are working.
At the start of the ride, it was decided to go to Warnies for coffee and not Sams and the staff were very helpful with good coffee and cake. We left in good spirits and made our way down Warnervale Road, through the rough pathway around the road works without encountering our belligerent trucky. Several members continued along Warnervale Road towards home while the main group turned down Minnesota to Wadalba. Then back to Wahroonga Road, Gorokan shops, Toukley Bridge and Peel Street.
The attendance was: Len, Rolf, Jill, Trevor, Nicolette, Virginia, Chris, Doug, Col, Keith, David, Estelle Linda, Tony, Mark Smith and me. [and me]
Warwick.
Morning tea at Warnies - 19 November 2025
Barry leads the team into not sure where - 14 November 2025
Skylarkers - Just 4 today, but a good run clockwise around Tuggerah Lake, with coffee at Better Days. Included a visit to Bateau Bay lookout. 60-70 km.
Coasters - Ride Report . The weather looked very promising till a moderate-to-strong southerly started to fire up around 8.30am. Barry Smith was the designated Ride Manager having swapped with Linda the week before as she and Carol are currently away.
Concerned with running a bit late with the Sign-on sheet, Barry arrived to JDR to find only Chris had arrived a moment before. So that made 2 riders at 8.40am. All of a sudden the cars and bikes arrived so we had 17 Riders to start at 9.00am. The sign-on order was Barry, Chris, Len, Maree, Dave, Keith, Virginia, Doug, Angela, Nicolette, Karen, Tony, Estelle, Graeme, Rolf, Daryl and Merrilyn. A quick briefing was had, Doug graciously agreed to be the sweep and Angela spoke about the recent CC Council meeting she attended about future cycling developments on the Coast.
THE RIDE : From JDR we took the old route via Park st, Ada Ave, Elizabeth Drive. Crossed onto Budgewoi Rd then to Slade Park for a regroup. Then past Edgewater Park and along Elizabeth Bay Drive to our usual regroup stop. Up to the Highway then left all the way to Tall Timbers Rd. Down to Josh Porter Reserve for another Pitstop.
Off again along the cycleway to Mulloway Rd, across onto the dirt track which is really starting to weather again to rough corrugations. Right onto Kanangra drive then across at the lights into the SRA for a nice rollercoaster run which was slightly marred by a reckless high speed car racing past us.
Another regroup at the roundabout next to Matt's Diner then back along Elizabeth Bay Drive and on to Lakes Beach for a coffee break.
Doug and his team veered right at Budgewoi to seek out some caffeine elsewhere. Chris took on the sweep duties to Lakes Beach.
We caught up with Danny and James at Lakes beach over coffee. Barry left the group early to rendezvous with Karen later in picking up the Christmas ham ready for carving by Naomi closer to the party time. I presume everyone returned safely to JDR after much discussion over coffee.
We had the benefit of a robust southerly pushing behind us on the ride North then weakening nicely on the way back South to keep us cool as the day had started to warm up nicely.
It wasn't a long ride. I had 47k's by the time I arrived back home which meant the Ride from JDR and return was around 38k's the designated distance. Chris and others who rode from home further still. We rode on the flat at a reasonably Coasters pace of approx 22kmh average.
See you all in a couple of weeks at the Christmas Party. Next week Lois and I are off cruising the high seas (hopefully not too bumpy) to NZ playing bridge on all the sea days.
Baz
Relaxing with Danny and James at Lakes Beach - 14 November 2025
Group 1 - Something different today - Loop around Tuggerah Lake with an extension from Ourimbah to Gosford. 88km, 107 for Vic.
Group 2 - Ride Report Wednesday 12th November 2025
Ten members met at Blacksmiths carpark for the ride to Belmont where we picked up Estelle then onwards to Eleebana, Warners Bay, Speers Point, Boolaroo, Edgeworth, Wallsend, Jesmond, Broadmeadow (Coffee at MacDonalds) then Adamstown, The Fernleigh Track and return to Blacksmiths. At some point around Speers Point we left Keith to his own devices. (He was off to help a neighbour. A good Samaritan).
As usual, the ride around the top of the lake between Belmont and Speers Point was on the shared path with a lot of walkers and other cyclists that provided some interesting challenges. Some of our number were also distracted by the scenery. Thankfully there were no incidents that would reflect badly on club.
We then travelled north along the shared path past the “Hammer Shop” and Costco to the difficult crossing between Main Rd and Frederick Street at Argenton, before getting on the old rail trail, over the hill and into Wallsend. Then northeast on shared paths and into Jesmond. There is very large roadworks here due to a bypass being erected. My trusty Newcastle guide (Hans Meier) had contacted me earlier in the week to inform me that the path through this roadworks had changed but I would have no problems negotiating through there. He didn’t factor in my clumsy attempt to negotiate past a tipper and dog, make a sharp left-hand turn, with other cyclists trying to get through as well. I ended up almost knocking down a 2-metre chain-wire fence with my bike on top of me and very embarrassed. No injuries, but another broken mirror.
On through Jesmond Park and up through the old tramway cutting to Howe Street Lambton and down to the shared path at McDonald Jones Stadium, (home to the useless Jets) before arriving at McDonalds Broadmeadow. Food, drink and good conversation as well as toilets.
Then off to Adamstown Station before starting on the Fernleigh Track. Members were let off the leash and agreed to meet up at Belmont where we would say bye to Estelle. We then made our way back to Blacksmiths where I said goodbye to Rolf as he sped off on his muscle bike toward home. Our ride was 62 Klms but Rolf’s would be another story. As usual we all should be thankful for our “Sweep” Doug for his invaluable assistance.
So, the attendance was: Doug, Keith, David, Virginia, Chris, Len, Trevor, Colin, Rolf, Estelle and me. Apologies from Hans.
Warwick.
[No photos, sorry]