CONTENTS EditorialParkes Gathering Pg 5 Arvie’s Travels Pg 6 QLD Calendar & Rally Reports Pp 7-12 NSW Calendar & Rally Reports Pp 13-15 ... while this Covid-19 is still around. I

Kermit Kronicle Issue 48 SEPTEMBER 2020

1

CONTENTS

Editorial Pg 1

KT’s Report Pp 2

RV Group Contacts

Pg 3

Webmaster’s Report

Pg 4

Parkes Gathering

Pg 5

Arvie’s Travels Pg 6

QLD Calendar & Rally

Reports Pp 7-12

NSW Calendar &

Rally Reports

Pp 13-15

Bailey Firepit

Comparo Pp 16-17

AGM Cohuna 2021

Pp 18-20

Future AGMs Pg 21

SA Calendar & Rally

Report Pp 22-23

WA Rally Calendar

2020 Pg 24

Facebook Pix Pg 25

Gear Shop Pg 26

Editorial

G’day folk,

I sure hope you’re all staying safe and well during this threat-ening atmosphere that has re-generated largely due to the arrogance and/or stu-pidity of others. It disappoints me terri-bly that our fellow beings can be so in-considerate and selfish about observing Covid-19 regulations!

My heart goes out to our southern mem-bers, who’ve been in Stage 4 shutdown, including an evening curfew! I just hope these seemingly extreme measures return a positive result, but it doesn't appear to be happening, yet ...

In the meantime, yes the Yarrawonga rally had to be canned, and no-one from Victoria will be able to attend any inter-state rallies for who knows how long ...? Pretty tough, particularly as a lot of you are nowhere near the hotspots!

On the other hand, it is good to see our members in other states getting out and about and injecting much-needed $$$’s into the smaller communities that are do-ing it so tough, since tourism took it’s nosedive.

The NSW rally at Tamworth was very well attended, and despite pretty indiffer-ent weather on and off most of the week, everyone managed to squeeze in a very sociable time, with LOTS of campfires (see Ian’s shoot-out report).

Thanks to NSW Coordinators Carolyn and Ian, and Robyn and John, for once again organising and managing a great event.

A shame Lord Whyte’s new birthday drone was ambushed by a huge eucalypt while attempting to covertly collect com-promising footage above our campsite (for the purpose of blackmailing, I pre-sume). Sad to see such a big man cry … Really should use a chainsaw for a tree that size, Nev ☺.

Thank you Judi, for continuing to carry the WA banner for the time-being. Hopefully someone will step up for you one day in the not-too-distant future ...

I guess I shouldn’t say anything here about our neighbour (nameless, with the colourful blue caravan) who drove off with his car fridge still plugged into his van … so I won’t ...

We are proud to see Paul and Roseanne doing so much voluntary work for BlazeAid - one project after another! I know there are other members who also give up their time to work for BlazeAid. You are all truly awesome!

I have just learned of the passing of Greg’s (Grub’s) son Matthew. Our love and condolences go out to Greg and Gloria at this

time of such tragedy and grief.

Keep safe everyone, and stay erect

Bob Editor


2

Ken T Report

National

Coordinator

KT’s REPORT

by Ken Tacon

Hi

Well, there’s not a lot to report, while this Covid-19 is still around.

I would like to welcome all the new members, and hope to catch up with

you soon.

A big thank you to our state co-ordinaries in NSW, QLD, WA and SA for

the rallies in these states.

I know VIC is in total lockdown (sorry).

Rally reports are in this issue of KERMIT.

I’m waiting to see if I can cross the border to go to Parkes in October, with-

out having to go into isolation when we come back to Qld.

If you haven’t seen our new web page, you should go and have a look.

Richard has done a great job (thanks mate).

Keep your eyes on your state calendars, and support your co-ordinators at

their upcoming rallies.

Not much more is happening, so keep safe, and we hope to see you all soon

(I hope).

Ken T

National Coordinator

Ulysses RV Group


3

RIP

Brian

Waterfield

Contacts

A guy walked into the local CentreLink office to pick up his cheque. He marched straight up to the

counter and said:

"Hi. You know, I just HATE drawing welfare! I'd really rather have a job."

The social worker behind the counter said, "Your timing is excellent.

We just got a job opening from a very wealthy old man who wants a Chauffeur and bodyguard for his

beautiful daughter.

You'll drive his 2020 Mercedes-Benz CL, and he will supply all of your clothes.

Because of the long hours, meals will be provided. You'll also be expected to escort the daughter on

her overseas holiday trips.

This is rather awkward to say, but you will also, as part of your job description, have to satisfy her

sexual urges.

The daughter is in her mid-20's and has a rather strong sex drive."

The guy, in wide-eyed amazement, said, "You're bullshittin' me!"

The social worker said: "Yeah, well ... you started it".

RV GROUP CONTACT DETAILS

National Coordinator - Ken (& Doreen), Mob 0417 630 750 - email: [email protected]

National Co-Coordinator - Bob (& Marilyn), Mob 0413 544 795 - email: [email protected]

QLD - Gordon & Judy, Blip & Di:- email: [email protected]

SA - Robert, Max, Colin & Di, Wayne:- email: [email protected]

Vic - Marilyn, Janice & Fred:- email: [email protected]

WA - Judi & Pete: - email: [email protected]

NSW - Carolyn & Ian, Robyn & John:- email: [email protected]

Gear Shop - Gordon & Judy:- email: [email protected]

Editor (interim only) - Bob Lucas:- email: [email protected]

Webmaster - Richard Flinders:- email: [email protected]

VALE BRIAN WATERFIELD

(Chittaway Bay, NSW)

On a sadder note, we recently lost one of our NSW mem-

bers, Brian Waterfield. Brian was a lovely, gentle guy, and most of you, friends or not, would well re-

member he and his capable-looking camper , and of course his little dog … and his lengthy chats.

We extend our warmest condolences to Brian’s family at this sad

time. Ride on in peace, Brian.


4

Webmaster’s

Report

Richard

Flinders

Webmaster Report - September 2020

Thanks everyone for the comments and suggestions for the new website. All taken on

board!

It seems to be settling down nicely with just one ongoing issue to be resolved … (thanks

Judi for advising about it)

If you use an Ipad/Iphone then you can't access the drop down State Rallies sites from

the menu bar.

(Technical excuse … unfortunately I was unable to test using the Safari browser as it is

completely incompatible with Windows, so can only be done from a suitable Apple de-

vice.)

I have added the Rally links at the bottom of the home page until I can figure out a solu-

tion.

The new website is designed to be clean and simple so you can easily find the informa-

tion. I hoped it was designed to be tablet-friendly, but I think the menu bar needs a bit

more work.

A new feature is tracking Kermit ... Please send photos and report his location and ac-

tivities, and I will ensure everyone knows what he is up to! (Good or bad �)

Anyhow, please enjoy the site, and do keep up any comments and suggestions to …

[email protected]

Keep safe, and hoping rallies can restart in Victoria soon!

Richard

Webmaster

An elderly couple had dinner at another couple's house. After eating, the wives left the table and went into the kitchen.

The two gentlemen were talking, and one said, 'Last night we went out to a new restaurant,

and it was really great! I would recommend it very highly.'

The other man said, 'What is the name of the restaurant?'

The first man thought and thought, and finally said, 'What’s the name of that flower you

give to someone you love? You know, the one that's red, and has thorns.'

'Do you mean a rose?'

'Yes, that's the one,' replied the man.

He then turned towards the kitchen and yelled,

'Rose, what's the name of that restaurant we went to last

night?'


5

A

Ken & Bob

production

Parkes

Gathering

Just next

month!

PARKES GATHERING As we go to print things are still on target for a gathering at Parkes prior to heading down to

the NSW rally in Wagga Wagga.

At this stage it looks like we will be restricted to NSW members, and anyone who

does attend will have to be VERY careful about the Covid-19 threat.

But I’m sure we can look after one another, and observe whatever precautions are

necessary to keep us all as safe as possible.

With that in mind then, we will be complying with whatever park restrictions are in place, but in any case practising social distancing, and restricting Happy Hour gath-

erings to a maximum of 20 persons.

For those of you who may have forgot-

ten, the venue is:-

Spicer Caravan Park

37A Albert St, Parkes NSW 2870.

Brad and Cheryl are contactable there on

02 6862 6162

or email enquir-

[email protected]

10% discount is offered for “senior” (not “old”) members, and don’t forget to tell ‘em you’re with the Ulysses RV Group to get the “Stay for 7, pay for 6” deal …

that’s just $180 for the week, or $162 if you’re “senior” (not “old”) ☺.

The park has an entertainment area with fire pit, and pets are admitted “at the man-

ager’s discretion” when booking.

I was talking to Cheryl there last week, and they are all set for our attendance.

… Cheers, Bob

The rain ☔ was pouring down outside O'Connor's Irish Pub.

There, standing in front of a big puddle outside the pub was an old Irishman, drenched, holding a stick, with a piece of string dangling in the water.

A passer-by stopped and asked him, "What are you doing?"

“Fishing”, replied the old man.

Feeling sorry for the old man, the gent says, “Come in out of the rain ☔ and have a drink with me.”

In the warm ambiance of the pub, as they sip their whiskies, the gentleman, being a bit of a superior

smartass, cannot resist asking, "So, how many have you caught today?”

"You're the 8th", replied the old man


6

Arvie’s

WA

Adventure

ARVIE HAS BEEN

GETTING OUT AND

ABOUT

… AT LAST!

It’s been great to see (on Facebook) that

Alan has finally let Arvie out of the cupboard, and he’s been tripping up and down the beautiful west coast with top quality company.

Just hope he doesn’t get led astray, or drink too much!

More great Arvie WA

travel pix are on Page 25 (Facebook page). … Bob


7

ULYSSES QUEENSLAND RV GROUP

PLANNER PROPOSALS 2020

*This is a guide ONLY to be utilised as a forward planner for 2020

JANUARY- OVER THE BORDER 10/13 Evans Head “The Great Eastern Fly In”

Reported as a Top Aircraft Event: Some Introductory Information:

Parking on the aerodrome: $10 pp/pn: Pay for 3 have 4th night free:

Generators only between 10am and 4pm: NO DOGS: NO DRONES: (Airport Precinct): Shuttle Bus Friday

arvo / Sunday to town: Quiet camping area away from the public:

200m walk or cycle to amenities: No Showers: No Power: No Water:

AN AIRSHOW NOT TO BE MISSED

MARCH 15- 23 Valla Beach NSW (Annual Ulysses RV Group Inception/ Birthday Rally)

APRIL 02 -09 Ubobo “Boyne Valley Country Music Festival”

with Tag-a-long

MAY 04/10 LISMORE ULYSSES MOTORCYCLE AGM

MAY- JUNE 29 May – 01 June Goomeri Pumpkin Festival

JULY

25, 26, 27: Childers’ Multicultural Festival with Tag-a-long

Planning to stay at the Woodgate Sports Club adjacent to Woodgate Bowls Club

OCTOBER 19 – 26 Ulysses RV Group AGM @MUDGEE NSW

DECEMBER 03/06 Esk Caravan Park Xmas

*This is a guide ONLY to be utilised as a forward planner for 2020

Gordon and Judy (0423 864 492) [email protected]

Blip and Di

QLD

Rally

Calendar

2020

————CancelledCancelledCancelledCancelled

OCTOBER 29 – November 02 Borumba Deer Park

(joining with Sunshine Coast Ulysses 25th Anniversary - Flier on next page)

————CancelledCancelledCancelledCancelled

Celebration - Flier to be posted 03 to 07

· Park holding 15 powered sites

· Site Bookings Close – 13 November ( a deposit will be required by the park)

· This event we have the company of the Carousel Caravan Club

DATE CLAIMER:

Tropical North Queensland Rally

19 – 24 May 2021 “Hit the Road - Jack”


8

QLD

Deer Park

Rally

@

Borumba

ULYSSES RV GROUP QUEENSLAND RALLY ADVICE

“A Country Celebration”

BORUMBA DEER PARK 29 Oct – 02 Nov 2020

Our Rally is being held in conjunction with Sunshine Coast

Ulysses Branch who are celebrating their 25th

Anniversary on 30th

Oct / 01 Nov.

Ulysses RV Group members are cordially invited to their celebrations and join with

them in their Saturday Program: -

VENUE: Borumba Deer Park 1133 Yabba Creek Road IMBIL

HOSTS: Tom and Kelly - Phone:- 07) 5484 5196

email: - [email protected]

Book with the Park - *CLOSES 9th

October

Register with Gordon and Judy

email: - [email protected]

POWERED SITES: - $37 per couple and $21 per single

*Holding 15 powered sites DOGS TO BE ON LEADS FIRES PERMITTED

FRIDAY: Dam Visit / Kayak Activity (Creek or Dam–Kayaks available on site for creek

use)

SUNDAY: am - STITCH’n CHATTER pm - 4X4 Excursion

The following preorganised by SUNSINE COAST ULYSSES BRANCH:

SATURDAY:

Morning Ride – departing at 10am

Afternoon Games – starting 2pm low impact / high on FUN

Evening Meal – 6pm Aussie style meal BYO drinks plus chair

Country Theme, so please wear your best flannel shirt and country gear

*Prizes for best dressed

SATURDAY EVENING $25 including meal / Evening Concert / Anniversary Badge

*SEE BELOW

ENTERTAINMENT – due to COVID, Bushland Boogie Band Cancelled *(No dancing)

Evening Dinner Music and Concert – by GC’sMUSIK *Gordon Crosswell

Looking forward to your company

Gordon and Judy / Blip and Di (07) 3287 7616 / 0423 864 492


9

QLD

Deer Park

Rally

@

Borumba

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

REGISTRATION FORM: SATURDAY EVENING OCTOBER 31st

RSVP by 30th

September

a) Email below info to [email protected]

b) Mail Russell Davie 21 Boram St, Currimundi Q 4551

Mobile 0499 968 366

FULL NAME: ___________________________

Phone: ___________________

email: ______________________________________________________

Membership Number: __________ Number Attending ____ Amt______

$25 each *Includes meal, entertainment, and anniversary badge

# Direct Deposit BSB: - 084 484

Acc: - 528470510

Acc Name: - Sunshine Coast Ulysses Group

Ref: - Name & Membership No

# Cheque Enclosed:

Make out to: - Sunshine Coast Ulysses Branch – Ulysses Club Inc


10

QLD

Crows

Nest Rally

Report

Enjoyed catching up with the rally held last weekend at Crows Nest.

Thanks to those who remembered to send photos, much appreciated.

Cheers, Judy & Gordon

It had been such a long time since our group headed out on a rally due to COVID, but at last it came to pass, gathering at Crows Nest in SE Qld. Our previous rally at this park was in 2013, but this event was made more special by the 19 RVs in attendance, boosted by new members. Some had taken the opportunity to visit other places en route so there were plenty of stories to share in a very packed program. A few of our members travel with their pets, following the consensus of being kept away from food areas. Lots of pats given out to these furry friends! Many of the group who know Greg (Grub) were saddened by the news that his son Matthew had passed away unexpectedly, and we sent our thoughts of sup-

port and love to Greg and Gloria. They were to have attended the gathering in their new RV. One of the highlights of our get-aways has often been a 4x4 convoy, led ably by Blip and Di, on a trip taking us on the road less travelled, as Graeme Con-nors would put it. This rally’s trip was no different, tak-ing us north towards Blackbutt, then on a forest road through to Cooyar and the swinging bridge. Not a drop of wa-ter in the creek so everyone was

puzzled as to where the platypus population had gone! From there it was off to morning tea at the Muntapa Tunnel on the Cooyar to Oakey Road. This is an historical tunnel, opened in 1912 to service the railway line,

tucked away in the mountains, but is now home to a resident bat population hanging delicately from the tunnel ceiling. The trip back to Crows Nest went in different directions but Blip and Di followed Judy and I to visit Ever-green State School on the road to Oakey where Judy and I lived with our young family from 1975-1977. Both the school and resi-dence are now pri-

vately owned, and the former pupils all grown. A group dinner was held on Friday night at the Curly Carrot Café, housed in the Caravan Park. Jesse, the chef, and her team of helpers did a top job and the evening was finished off with some music and sing-along with Col and Gordon on duelling guitars.

QLD ULYSSES RV GROUP RALLY @ CROWS NEST, QLD

September 03rd

– 07th 2020


11

QLD

Crows

Nest Rally

Report

There is nothing more social than sitting around a campfire for the nightly get-togethers and Blip and his timber- getters made sure there was plenty of fuel. Saturday morning, the park owners provided us with the ingredients for a breakfast cook-up, ably done by our great volunteers, who cooked then cleaned the b’que to within an inch of its life. The Stitch and Chatter group gathered in the Camp Shed following the brekkie to have a show and tell session. Big decisions get made at this event as our RV Group gener-

ously donates items to aged care facilities at our AGM gatherings, the next one being at Cohuna in 2021. That afternoon engendered much laughter with the Finska Competition for tossers, a new game to some, which brought out the competitive streak in everyone. And the winners were……. LEON & HELEN!!! On Sun-day morn-ing the group made their way to the

Pechey Distillery where a tour of the homestead yard and tastings, with the owner John, found many of us walking away with bottles of Vodka and Gin. This then resulted in a visit to the local re-cently refurbished Soft Drink and Cordial factory in town to purchase the nec-essary additives to the spirits. As luck would have it, the weekend was also the gathering of the Model T Club

at the caravan Park, giving those of us with a mechanical bent the op-portunity to inspect these sturdy ve-hicles from the past at the Sunday CARS and COFFEE at the Curly Carrot Café and the Show and Shine.. Boris also arrived on his lat-est bike, a BMW 1200, which he had ridden up from Brisbane to

touch base with the group. Thanks, Boris, for taking the effort. There was something for everyone at this rally, leaving us all looking forward to meeting again at the Borumba Deer Park in October with the Sunshine Coast Ulysses Branch 25th Celebrations. Until next time, safe travels, stay well and thank you for your company. Gordon and Judy / Blip and Di Queensland Coordinators Ulysses RV Group


12

QLD

Crows

Nest Rally

Report

My wife was hinting about what she wanted for our upcoming anniversary.

She said, "I want something shiny, that goes from 0 to 150 in about 3 seconds."

I bought her a set of bathroom scales.

And then the fight started ...

The FINSKA championships in progress.

The crowd goes wild!!

Magpie season! He took a dislike to

Soren's ponytail with dire

consequences, and terrorised others!

Pechey Distillery visit was a great

"gin & tonic"!!

Oh, and Vodka!

So much history in such an out of the way place!

Rocky Tunnel Park is now open to the public, after

having been on private property till 1987.

The clean team at work!


13

FROM YOUR NSW COORDINATORS Please find attached below our updated calendar for 2020, and details of our Spring rally to be held in Wagga Wagga in November. Looking forward to seeing everyone out and about. Up to date information on rallies can also be found on the website and in this publication. If you have a favourite place to go or any suggestions regarding our rallies let us know. We are keen to hear from you. Carolyn and Ian Robyn and John Ulysses RV NSW coordinators

Revised NSW Rallies 2020

We plan our rallies to run for a week so that we get the best price and make

the most of our travel. However attendees are welcome to stay for longer, or

to join us for a weekend, a few days, or even a day visit.

SUMMER

A great time was had in February this year at Corrimal, near Wollongong.

AUTUMN

Unfortunately the Wagga Wagga rally was cancelled due to Covid-19.

WINTER

Another great rally at Tamworth in August, and a report follows overleaf.

SPRING

Next rally! Wagga Wagga is a major regional city in the Riverina region of

NSW and sits on the shores of the Murrumbidgee River.

The Big 4 Wagga Wagga Holiday Park Ph 1800 636 522 or 02 6921 4287 will

be our hosts for the rally from 4 November up to and including 10 November.

This is great news for those people who had intended to travel here earlier in

the year for the Autumn rally.

NSW

Revised

Rally

Calendar

2020


14

Note: due to COVID-19 we may have to make some changes, particularly with

happy hour, and any group activities. We will have your health and safety in

mind when making any decisions.

All our rallies are posted on Facebook, in the Kermit Kronicle, and on the Ulys-

ses RV website.

2021 rally details will be posted later in the year.

Don’t forget to mention you are with the Ulysses RV Group when booking!

NSW Spring Rally 2020 - Wagga Wagga

We are excited to let you know that our Spring rally will be held in Wagga

Wagga. We had originally planned this for earlier in the year, but had to can-

cel due to COVID-19 restrictions.

The rally is to be held at Big4 Wagga Wagga Holiday

Park Ph 1800 636 522 or 02 6921 4287 from 4 Novem-

ber, up to and including 10 November 2020.

For anyone who had originally booked for May this year the park has trans-

ferred your booking and deposit to the above dates.

** Please contact them and confirm that you wish to attend **

Wagga Wagga is a major regional city in the Riverina district of NSW and sits

on the shores of the Murrumbidgee River. There is lots to see and do in

Wagga Wagga and the surrounding towns. We would love to see you there.

Due to COVID-19 we may have to make some changes, particularly with happy

hour and any group activities. We have your health and safety in mind when

making any decisions.

Gee, that looks just like Lucas’ car … it even has the same number plates! Uh oh, looks like it’s gone through a red arrow! Wow, I’m glad I wasn’t driving ...

Every time I start thinking too much about how I look, I just

find a Happy Hour, and by the time I leave,

I look just fine.

NSW

Spring

Rally

@

Wagga

Wagga


15

NSW

Tamworth

Winter

Rally

Report

Ulysses RV NSW Tamworth Rally Report

The NSW winter rally was held in

Tamworth and the weather didn’t

disappoint, with a chilly blast of

cold wind, occasional showers and

even hail falling during the week.

A total of 20 vans and 39 people

attended the rally.

Unable to have our usual group dinner at a local club or restaurant, we had

to come up with something new. Where there is a will there is a way. In

keeping with current restrictions our attendees had two separate happy

hour groups spread out around a number of fires. We ordered pizza.

Yum! Our special delivery drivers, Ian and Carolyn, returned with every-

one’s individual orders, and soon there was silence as we devoured our

tasty meals by the fires.

We spent our time in Tamworth with visits to the shops, a drive to the

lookout, or by just sitting back and relaxing with a good book or a chat

with friends. A look at the private collection of over 50 motorcycles at

Tamworth Motorcycle museum was a highlight for some. Valuable lessons were learned from each other. Such as; don’t drive away

from your caravan until after you unplug the power to your fridge.

Or, if one person parks outside a pub nose in at a 90 degree angle, it does-

n’t mean that the following five cars should do the same. Parking as the

sign says: ‘rear to kerb at a 45 degree angle’ may have been a better op-

tion, and may have kept the barmaid a little happier.

We took day trips to see the sights in nearby towns.

One person, who shall remain nameless, managed to turn a 100km trip

into a 300km trip, simply by taking a shortcut. As darkness fell and happy

hour was well and truly over, he arrived home. His passengers recounting

stories of their day’s travel over hill and dale, with sightings of wombats

and kangaroos, and enormous potholes that almost swallowed the car, in

the fading light of day.

It was great to be able to be able to hold this rally.

We are looking forward to our next rally, and we hope that those in Victo-

ria can do the same soon. We are thinking of you.

Stay safe and well, everyone.

NSW Coordinators

Ian and Carolyn, John and Robyn


16

NSW

Bailey

Firepit

Comparo

Firepit Comparo by Ian Bailey

After the last NSW RV group winter rally at Tamworth

it was thought it would be a good idea to compare

some of the many varied and unique outdoor heating

solutions.

Taking just a small collection of the firepits available

we offer the following brief review.

· The Snowpeak large and medium firepits. By far one of the

most expensive options, but being made out of stainless steel, fold-

able, and with a vast array of accessories, it is up there in the quality

stakes.

The basic large model is $319, and the basic me-

dium is $288. The design and build goes some way

to justifying the high price tag. It folds flat, is easy

to store, and can be cleaned easily. The Snowpeak

firepit can be obtained from Drifta camping sup-

plies, in the main street of Gloucester, NSW.

· The repurposed gas bottle firepit. This idea has been around in

various forms for many years. With some mechanical aptitude and

understanding of the dangers of cutting open an old gas cylinder,

this solution can be achieved simply, and at minimum cost. The gas

cylinder can be cut longways or across the top, to give either a hori-

zontal or vertical wood burning ability. Though

a little bit harder to store, it could be carried in

a spare gas cylinder holder fitted somewhere

on the outside of the van chassis. This example

was designed and made by our own NSW Co-

coordinator Ian Hoye. Cost approx $65.

· The repurposed stainless keg firepit. Again another simple

and cheap alternative, with the added advantage of having to drain

the keg of it’s contents first (Hic!). Being lar-

ger it is ideal to heat larger groups, and as in

this photo, with the addition of an electric

rotisserie can be used as a campside spit.

Some thought would have to go into storing

and transporting this one, though I’m sure


17

NSW

Bailey

Firepit

Comparo

our talented group could quickly find an answer.

· Fishing Camping flat pack firepit. An eBay buy 3mm mild steel

firepit. This unique 4 piece unit packs down to 560mm x 230mm x

30mm. When assembled, by locking the pieces together, the open-

ing is approx 600mm x 600mm. A clever design which allows long

logs to be laid horizontally. The steel is laser

cut and manufac-

tured in Qld. The

price at the mo-

ment on Ebay is

about $99.

· Robbo’s Fabrications flat pack firepit. A hexagonal shaped

locked-together 2mm mild steel firepit. Again laser cut with camp-

ing orientated motifs cut into the side to allow good air flow.

Though comprising more components than the example

above, it packs away to a smaller package. The more

vertical design allows logs to be placed upright to en-

hance their combustion. Available from Robbo’s Fabri-

cations on 0408 483 169. Price is $175 including gloves,

oil spray, grilling mat and meat claws in a 6-pack cooler

pack.

This is just a small sample of the many designs out there, but

may give you some ideas if

you are in the market for a

new way of chasing the

winter camping chills

away.

… many thanks to Ian for

this extensive report & pix

Morris, an 82 year-old man, went to the doctor to get a physical.

A few days later, the doctor saw Morris walking down the street with a gor-

geous young woman on his arm.

A couple of days later the doctor spoke to Morris, and said, 'You're really

doing great, aren't you?'

Morris replied, 'Just doing what you said, Doc; 'Get a hot mamma and be

cheerful.'

The doctor said, 'I didn't say that! I said;

'You've got a heart murmur; be careful!'


18

2021 AGM

@

Cohuna

Victoria

AGM 2021 @ Cohuna, Victoria Monday 18 Sunday 24 October 2021

I must firstly offer my sympathy to the Mudgee 2020 AGM team. They were setting the bar for Cohuna to beat. Now the tables are turned and Cohuna is set-

ting the bar! Mudgee returns in 2022, so make a note for future plans.

So, Cohuna is the next AGM for the Ulysses RV Group.

Time to start planning.....

So where is Cohuna?

Cohuna is a farming and occasional holiday town situated 274 kilometres north

of Melbourne, on the Murray Valley Highway, in northern Victoria.

It is approximately half way between Echuca and Swan Hill. A great town to use

as a base to explore the southern Mallee region.

It is also the gateway to the Gunbower forest, which has some fantastic free

camping along the Gunbower Creek, or Murray River.

Where is the AGM venue?

We have exclusive use of the Cohuna Waterfront Caravan Park https://

www.cwhp.com.au/

The park is located on Gunbower Is-land, which is Australia's largest inland island and the gateway to the Gunbower state forest, part of the Murray River area. The park has its own launch ramp and is walking dis-

tance to the town.

Cohuna is a great little town, north of the divide, so we expect great temper-ate weather. It is centrally located between Echuca and Swan Hill, and just 15

minutes from the Murray river, so a great central location.

The park has its own boat ramp, so bring your tinny and with the aid of the Echuca Ulysses branch, we hope to put on a great programme. I'll be asking for your input, and making suggestions. However we have some ideas already, such as a lunch or dinner cruise on the Gunbower creek with dancing music to suit our

era.

Guided Eco cruise showing you the bird life and diversity of the creek, water aerobics in the local pool, even classes on how to do great photography using

your phone camera!

Being the gateway to the Gannawarra shire there are plenty of bush 4WD tracks and other places to explore, and Echuca and Swan Hill are close, by as well as

the Silo trail. Lots to do!!


19

2021 AGM

@

Cohuna

Victoria

Pre-Booking Details ...

The park is now accepting reservations for sites, call 03 5456 2562. Don't forget

to advise it’s for the AGM or you will be turned away!

Your reservation will be held till the end of the year, when the park will contact

you with pricing, and you will then need to pay a deposit or cancel the booking.

They have promised us some great offers, including free nights, and special deals

if you stay longer than the week.

The park also has quite a few cabins, and will make some great pricing offers if you decide to bring the boat or come on the bike for a change. Could be a great option for some of our more local members, and if we get a few along I'll organ-

ise a local ride one day.

Now, you should note that there are only 70 powered sites available, and it is on

a “first come” basis.

After that there are plenty of unpowered sites, but due to local infrastructure their attempts to make more powered sites available have failed. (Note also NO gen-

erators or shared hookup, due to noise and load issues).

If you park off the site you can still join in on all the park events, as long as you

pay the small registration fee for the rally.

You may notice that the map of the park has many Annual sites. These are lim-ited-use cabins owned privately, but limited to either 90 or 180 days use per year.

So we are unlikely to have many users during our stay.

There is now a dedicated email address for all enquiries and suggestions....

[email protected]

Please do contact us, particularly with suggestion for events or other ideas.

I would really like to get some feedback on what you want from this AGM.

Items like:-

• Op Shop tours?

• 4WD day in the Gunbower/Perricoota forest

• Organised visits such as 'The Depot” Deniliquin (https://

www.depotdeni.com.au/)

The Gunbower Creek


20

2021 AGM

@

Cohuna

Victoria

Take an easy 4WD and explore the area …

Mt Hope in the distance

Follow the bush tracks to the Murray River

Looking forward to seeing you in Cohuna in 2021.

Don't forget to reserve your powered site at the caravan park before they are all gone

(plenty of non-powered sites available).

Richard & Marilyn Flinders

2021 AGM Committee

[email protected]

Two female teachers took a group of students from grades 1, 2 and 3 for a field trip to

Flemington Racecourse in Melbourne.

When it was time to take the children to the 'bathroom', it was decided that the girls

would go with one teacher, and the boys would go with the other.

The teacher assigned to the boys was waiting outside the men's toilet, when one of the

boys came out and told her that none of them could reach the urinal.

Having no choice, she went inside, helped the little boys with their pants, and began hoist-

ing them up one by one, holding on to their 'wee-wees' to direct the flow away from their

clothes, and shake them dry.

As she lifted one boy up, she couldn't help but notice that he was unusually well endowed.

Trying not to show that she was staring at his equipment the teacher said,

'You must be in Grade 3?'

'No ma'am', he replied. 'I'm riding Black Caviar in the next race, but I really appreciate

your help.’


21

2022 AGM

@

Mudgee

NSW

2023 AGM

@

Maleny

QLD

MUDGEE 2022

The 2020 AGM was to be held at Mudgee AREC Centre on Ulan Rd (about 2km from

town) from 19th

October till 26th

October this year.

As you are aware, it was cancelled due to Coronavirus implications, and has been re-

convened for 2022, with dates to be confirmed.

Lots of wineries to visit in the area, and some other great towns nearby. There will be

more information posted as things are sorted, so stay tuned to this Bat Channel …

CURRENT PROPOSAL IS TO CONVENE THE 2023 ULYSSES RV

AGM AT MALENY SHOWGROUNDS

16 - 23 October in 2023

Dates are in the hands of the Maleny Show Society

*Unable to commit as yet, but watch this space …

Further Education - nothing like it!

Mick: I've been going to Night Classes every night for 5 months now.

Paddy: Oh!

Mick: For example, do you know who Alexander Graham Bell was?

Paddy: No

Mick: He was the inventor of the phone in 1876;

If you took night classes you'd know this.

The next day: Mick: Do you know who Alexander Dumas was?

Paddy: No Mick: He was the author of "The 3 Musketeers".

If you took night classes, you'd know this.

The next day, once again: Mick: And do you know who Jean-Jacques Rousseau was?

Paddy: No Mick: He was the author of "The Confessions"

If you took night classes, you'd know this

By this time, Paddy was irritated, and said: And you Mick ... Do you know who Sean Reilly is?

Mick: No

Paddy: He's the fellow who's bonking your wife!

If you stopped going to night classes, you'd know this!


22

‘THIS IS ALSO ON’

These are add-ons to our official weekends, and maybe weekenders or even ‘through the week trips’

that some of us are doing that you may want to join in. As with the four annual official events it is come

any way you can, camp any way you like, and enjoy socialising with your Ulysses mates.

March 28th

2020 Diesel and Dirt Derby - Keith

A number of Ulyssians have indicated they are going back to this event again

this year. Held at the Keith Showgrounds there are camping sites available

to enable you to be on site to see the V8 superboats ‘flying’ around the Spit-

water Arena, modified tractor pull, header demolition derby aerobatic dis-

play, jump car racing, live music, and much, much more – visit their web-

page for more details

October Long Weekend 3rd

to 5th

2020 Ulysses Club SA Odyssey

Venue: Riverlands (exact venue site TBC)

SOUTH AUSTRALIA RALLY UPDATES

From Hobbit & your SA team:

SARV News & Events So you need to get away!

Prepare yourself for warmer weather and a great time in September, with a weekend

of fun and friendship at Murray Bridge.

These weekends are open to all, regardless of how you get there, even if you don’t

have an RV, bring a tent, or book a cabin (where available).

Sadly the RV AGM in October at Mudgee has been cancelled, due to the COVID

restrictions.

September 4th to 6th

Avoca Dell Caravan Park (Murray Bridge)

For bookings call the caravan park 08 8532 2095 and say you’re with Ulysses.

The Caravan Park overlooks the Avoca Dell reserve which abuts the River Murray.

Coming from Adelaide drive through Murray Bridge and over the bridge. The cara-

van park is signposted along the roads from there.

November 13th to 15th

Point Turton Caravan Park

For bookings call the caravan park 08 8854 5222 and say you’re with Ulysses.

The Caravan Park is nestled in a disused quarry overlooking the jetty and boat

SA

Rally

Calendar

2020


23

Walking 20 minutes a day can add to your life.

This enables you, at 85 years of age,

to spend an additional 5 months in a nursing home,

at $4,000 per month.

SA

AVOCA

DELL

RALLY

REPORT


24

PROPOSED WA Rally Dates 2020

Site Hosts required

Dumbleyoung – 1-3 May (there’s a ghost at the pub)

Harvey Street , Dumbleyung, 6350

Powered drive through sites, tent sites, on-site accommodation "Bluebird Lodge",

ablutions, laundry and water. Indicative Price $25.00

• Check-in Mon to Fri between 8:30am and 4:30pm at the shire office. 08 98634012

• 24 hour check-in available by phoning 0458 851 709.

• https://www.visitdumbleyungshire.com/accommodation

Denham Seaside Caravan Park – anytime your passing May – August (June long weekend is a

great weekend but book early) Why not do a Wildflower Tour on your way up/back or spend a few

days in Geraldton/Dongara/Port Denison. Travel over to Mullewa from Geraldton and travel the

inland road back home, through to Mount Magnet, Paynes Find, Wubin. The options are unlimited.

Cranbrook – 31 Jul- 2 Aug (Christmas in July in the Bush)

Address: Mason St, Cranbrook WA 6321

Phone: 0429 942 825 On site Care Takers

Kulin Bush Races – 2-4 October

(This is a First in Best Dressed site – As we will not be able to book or stay as a group,

perhaps another night beforehand somewhere can be arranged so everyone can be together

when we enter the grounds, so we can at least keep close together) Tickets available from

their website only – no gate sales: https://kulinbushraces.com.au/ (Currently not available)

Additional accommodation at Kulin Caravan Park Email: [email protected] Phone:

0439469850. Indicative price $9.00-$28.00

Lake Towerrinning Lakeside Camping – 6-8 November

http://www.lakesidecamping.com.au/ Cost $25.00 – only 13 powered sites available.

Graeme and Astrid Peirce

Ph: 9863 1195

Mobile: 0419 765 196

[email protected]

***8th Birthday Bash ***

PEMBERTON CARAVAN PARK,

12-14 FEBRUARY 2021

Phone:08 9776 1500. Tell them you’re with the Ulysses RV Group as we have

12 sites set aside for us. Cost is “Stay for 7, Pay for 6 nights = $210 or $35/night

WA

Rally

Calendar

2020


25

Pix from

Facebook

posts

The Ulysses RV

Group is for Ulysses

Club Inc members

who use Caravans,

Motorhomes,

Campervans or

Camper Trailers.

It was created to

facilitate members

of the Ulysses Club

who have moved on

to RV travel, or use

an RV as well as

their bike, to

maintain the friend-

ship of the Ulysses

Club.

To join the RV

Group, you or your

partner must be (or

have been) a

member of Ulysses

Club Inc.

As the site grows

we will bring you

the latest news,

and get together

reports, plus any-

thing we think is

relevant to RV’ers

concerning that

lifestyle.

This group is

moderated, and

anyone posting

indecent, offensive,

insensitive or similar

posts will be kicked

out of the group.

What it’s really all about!What it’s really all about!What it’s really all about!What it’s really all about!


26

CLUB SHIRT

Club shirt. Apple green with black

highlights, with club logo

embroidered on left chest.

Available in both men's sizes XS -

5XL, and ladies sizes 8 - 26.

Price $35.00 plus postage*. (Shirt

will be ordered after payment.)

*Shipping for shirts $12.00

CLUB SHIRT WITH

EMBROIDERED

NAME.

Club shirt. Apple green

with black highlights, with

club logo embroidered on

left chest, and your name

on the right chest.

Available in both men's

sizes XS - 5XL, and ladies

sizes 8 - 26.

Price $39.50 plus postage*.

(Shirt will be ordered after

payment.)

NAME BADGES

Don't forget to put the

name you want on the

badge in the field

before clicking "Add to

Cart".

A distinctive name

badge with your name

and the RV Group logo,

on a silver background.

The badge has a

magnetic plate

background so you no

longer have to poke a

pin through your shirt,

jacket or cap.

$18.00 plus $2.40

postage

RV Wheel Cover Sticker.

High quality RV (or 4WD) spare

wheel cover sticker, featuring the

RV Group logo. Sticker can be

made to fit spare wheel cover from

13" up to 16". Of high quality vinyl

with an anti grafiti covering

applied. Cost of sticker only

supplied, plus postage $82.00 plus

$15 postage.

If you would like the manufacturer

to apply the sticker to your cover,

cost will be $87.00 plus return

postage of $15.00. You will need to

purchase a postage tube and send

the cover to the address supplied

in the checkout process.

NEW STOCK.

200mm sticker - new

logo. $10.00 plus $1.30

postage. Order more

than one and combine

postage.

100 mm sticker - club

logo. $2.00 each plus

$1.00 postage. Order

more than one and

combine postage.

If you wish to purchase

any items and don't wish

to use Paypal or your

credit card (secure

transactions), then send

Gordon an email at

[email protected] with

details of the items you

wish to buy, and I will

send you bank details for

bank deposit/cheque

payment.

WARNING. Members

with a heart pacemaker

SHOULD NOT order the

badge with the magnetic

clasp, as it may interfere

with the pacemaker.

Please specify in the

comments part of the

order confirmation that

you require a pin clasp if

that is the case.

ULYSSES RV GEAR SHOP G

EA

R S

HO

P

*** Our supplier is having

difficulties obtaining stock.

A number of orders are on hold.

BANNERS - The large banners on sale at the 2019 AGM are to be ordered in multiples of 10.

$80 plus $12 postage. I currently have 2 banners on order from members.

IF YOU ARE INTERESTED, please contact [email protected]

Documents

CONTENTS EditorialParkes Gathering Pg 5 Arvie’s Travels Pg 6 QLD Calendar & Rally Reports Pp 7-12 NSW Calendar & Rally Reports Pp 13-15 ... while this Covid-19 is still around. I