MENINGIE RALLYREPORT

Reporter: Bob H

Cold nights with perfect days were the order for the entire weekend. Well what a bunch of goody-goodies are the current and prospective membership - like getting blood from a stone when they are under surveillance for faux pas, and/or indiscretions.

Marilyn and John were first to arrive on site after a gruelling trip all the way from Tailem Bend [57 kms]. The rest of the flock soon followed and settled into their allotted spaces.

All 11 vans were spread both along the water’s edge and the first row of sites, being within easy reach of the amenities. Very little swearing or hissy fits were evident during the setups.

An experienced retired member of the armed forces was in such a rush to display our allegiance that the club flag was raised in the “distress” position. It was hastily un-“distressed” with the assembled subjects being much relieved.

The 4:30 pm Happy Hour went well. VP Ruth attempted to make herself audible by utilising a sophisticated modern electronic voice amplifier, but that proved no match for the normal hubbub. We were reminded of the weekend activities plus the inspection [July 15/16] of a possible site for the 2022 National Rally, Barmera. Contact John G for further info.

Dianne and David (see photoleft, courtesy Trevor) plus Tony H were welcomed, accepted, and then inducted as new club members.

Friday witnessed several walking groups into the town and also through the adjacent subdivision. Some lovely lakeside homes there.

Then the “Disk Dodgers VS Disk Flingers” competition was hotly contested over many ends with team Ruth and Tony taking out the event(see photoabove, courtesy Trevor). The presentation of the chocolate bar trophies were much applauded.

An invitation came from the CV park management to join with them for nibbles and nips at the RSL clubrooms. Several members did participate.

The Lake Albert Golf Club evening meal was excellent. Their volunteers were very pleasant and went all-out to please.

The Sunday Sausage Sizzle was strangely held on Saturday. Thin or thick being the options. Red or brownish sauces plus a homebuilt relish were available.

The Alfoil clad “Potato-bake” within the fire drums proved a great success. 180 degrees C for quite some time proved to be the exactly correct recipe. It was here that Judy revealed her secret 1.8 Litre hip flask. Oh what a beauty! The pity was that the event was staged at the rear of Leon’s Van. He for some reason decided that the hilarity should cease well before the normal closing time of late o’clock.

Earlier on Sunday Marilyn and John G, in the company of Ruth R, were responsible for doubling the congregation at the local church service.

The SaturdayPoltalloch Station visit (see photoabove, courtesy John G) was delayed by the seven vehicle convoy leader Trevor leaving the Park exit gate Prox Card in his van. Shame, shame. This was not the real reason for the Saturday event being held on the Sunday.

The 118 km round trip went without further incident. Some travellers explored other spots on the return journey.

The Poltalloch story and exhibits gave an insight to the early history of that area. For further reading on the history of the Meningie and surrounding areas refer to Rob Linn’s excellent publication “A DIVERSE LAND” ISBN 0 7316 2063 1

Sunday evening most of the members walked the few steps to the “Meningie Cheese Factory Cafe” for the evening meal. Really excellent menu and presentation. Well Done!

Till next time!