1

BRANCH COORDINATOR

Kelvin Watson Ph; 577 6822

143B Maxwell Road, Blenheim 7201

Marlborough@ulysses.org.nz

VICE COORDINATOR

Gisela Schulze Ph; 578 1618

SECRETARY

Jeff Champion Ph. 577 9399 23 Bary Street, Blenheim 7201 wjbwc@xtra.co.nz TREASURER Wayne Brock Ph; 578 7233 COMMITTEE MEMBERS

Evan Teale Ph. 578 7323

John Laing Ph. 577 6663

Tom Brown Ph, 579 3106

Don Best Ph; 027 3236800

Colin Simpson Ph, 578 8224

Jock Woodley Ph, 579 5554

RIDES COORDINATOR (Sunday rides) Tom Brown Ph; 5793106 John Laing Ph; 02108288713 WELFARE OFFICER; Chris Donaldson Ph; 574 2421 Email; donaldsons@gmail.com RETREADS RIDES (Thursday rides) Murray Brooks Email; brookse@xtra.co.nz Ph: 570 5530 BRANCH SHERIFF

Jock Woodley Ph; 579 5554

Email; jockow@xtra.co.nz

BRANCH QUARTERMASTER (Ulysses Gear Orders) Jo de Reeper Ph. 579 1173

BRANCH HISTORIAN Jane Laing Ph. 577 6663 COMMUNITY NOTICES ORGANISER

Evan Teale Ph. 578 7323

WEBMASTER Bob Marks Ph, 574 1177 Email; marksy@ihug.co.nz Branch Web Page: www.ulysses.org.nz/marlborough BRANCH RIDER MENTORS Chris de Wagt Ph. 577 7238 Kevin Bright Ph. 572 8588 Nicky Bright Ph. 572 8588 NEWSLETTER EDITOR Jane Laing Ph.577 6663 Email; johnlaing.mt@xtra.co.nz Post; 75A Weld Street, Blenheim 7201

Refer all membership enquiries to the

Coordinator or a Committee member

Monthly newsletter of the MARLBOROUGH BRANCH, Ulysses Club of NZ Inc.

The Beavertown News September 2016

‘Our Place’

This little garden in Blenheim celebrates

25 years of Ulysses NZ in Marlborough

Sherriff Mac retires his little black book and hands on

his Badge

A new Sherriff, Jock Woodley, is welcomed.

Sunday Rides are definitely

happening—

several reports this month

Lots to read in this edition

Allow yourself plenty of

time!

2

BE A BETTER RIDER -

CONTACT US

Home; (03) 577 6663

Cell; 021 0828 8713

Email; johnlaing.mt@xtra.co.nz

Check out our Web site;

www.motorbikeschool.co.nz

LIKE us on Facebook!

Relaxed and friendly assistance to help you increase your

riding enjoyment.

100% local

Individual Refresher Rides.

Ride to Live subsidies

RIDE FOREVER Courses

Discounts for Ulysses Club members.

Proud Ulyssian supporting Ulysses Riders.

“Inspiring excellence in motorbike riding skills for maximum safety

and enjoyment” -Vision

MARLBOROUGH MOTORCYCLE RIDING

SCHOOL

3

Well – Winter has arrived with a vengeance.

7 of us local members tried to get to Hanmer on Saturday 6th August to be part of the Ulysses Memorial Ride & Service. We turned back at the Hundalees as the hill was covered in snow & ice. We regrouped at The Caves just South of Kaikoura for coffee & eats. I believe the Lewis Pass & the Inland Routes were closed also stopping Nelson members from attending as well. The snow was well down on the surrounding hills around Kaikoura on our way down.

It’s been quite a busy month & we were pleased to welcome our National President Mike Dew on August 4th to help unveil our Ulysses seat, Rock with plaque & garden opposite the new ASB theatre on John St by the Blenheim School. It was great to see this occasion so well attended & I would like to thank those who were there. It was good to see 4 children from Blenheim School come along & be part of the occasion. Mike Dew congratu-lated Lou Jowers & Terry Molony on their 25 years of membership to the club. Unfortunately I forgot to take their badges to present them on the day, but they have them now. This garden, rock & seat has taken quite some time to get to the stage it is now, but the end result has been well worth it. Thanks to those Blenheim School children & the other individual members who helped get this project going & now finished.

Our mid month dinner for August was held at The Redwood Tavern recently. It happened to be Mac T’s birthday on the night. We gave him a piece of birthday cake with a candle & sang happy birthday to him. “Lucky Mac”!

After these festivities were over our guest speaker from Penrite Oils Richard Hay was introduced along with 4 staff from Basis in Renwick. Richard’s presentation was very informative & we all know that the Basis staff are very helpful in finding anything you need in the motoring line.

I have been able to join in on the odd Retread group ride on Thursdays. I don’t get very often but enjoy catching up with whoever is there on the day. I enjoyed a Sunday picnic ride to Marfells beach recently as well. It shouldn’t be too long now before this Winter weather starts improving.

“Till next time”.

Kelvin Watson #3602 Marlborough Coordinator.

P.S. John Sinclair is going into Hospital in CH-CH on Wednesday for some surgery on his neck. Hope all goes well & we see him back on the road soon.

Coordinators word...

DISCLAIMER; While contributions and adverts are welcome, no responsibility can be accepted regarding claims or statements made by

members or advertisers in respect of products or services offered. The views expressed in this newsletter are not necessarily those of the Editor or of the Committee, but are those of the writer/s. The Editor reserves the right to edit, abridge or decline some contributions.

HAPPY BIRTHDAY!…. September 2016

Murray Brooks

Noel Duff

Alan Grant

Malcolm Honour

Peter Nelson

Barry Newman

Stuart Paul

Geoff Pullin

Peter Strange

Bruce Trevett

Piet Verbeek

John Welch

Tony Williams

OMG!! I filled the car up with petrol, didn't notice I'd spilled some on my sleeve, going down the road I lit a cig and my sleeve burst into flames, so I opened the window and stuck my arm out to try

and blow out the flames and the Police stopped me and are now arresting me for having a fire arm without a licence....

4

The Australians have got used a new

Prime Minster being a prompt to changing

their smoke alarm batteries.

Now this

John Sinclair #9272

AUGUST Mid month Dinner

About 17 of us arrived at the Vines Restaurant ready for dinner and eager to hear the speaker

for the evening. Talking to Vic earlier in the afternoon, he’d said there was a big draw on at the

Clubs of Marlborough that night so he thought there would be more Ulysses folk at the Club

than at the dinner—he was probably correct!

The meal was good and surprise, it was Mac Trilfords birthday—Kelvin took pleasure in sur-

prising him with a wee cake, complete with candle, the gesture was much appreciated by Mac.

The speaker, Richard Hay from Penrite Oil was very interesting. He explained who

Penrite Oils is and where it all began. Penrite Oil is an Australian based business,

founded by a man called Les Mecoles. They began producing lubricants in 1926 and

they service all areas of Australia and New Zealand. The company employs over 120

people and produces over 160 different products. Locally, you can find their products

at Basis in Renwick.

Penrite own and maintain a classic car and bike collection and they are the major

sponsor of Honda MX racing and the Erebus V8 Racing team. Richard talked about

the differences between the different oils on the market and in particular for

Motorbikes.

Members present thoroughly enjoyed his informative and interesting

presentation,- this was evident by the numbers wanting to talk to him and

ask questions afterwards. Thanks for organising this for us Jock—great!.

OK, so, since a lot of you were tied up at the Club for this one, we expect

you’ll all be on board for next months dinner at the Argosy Café out at

Woodbourne. No speaker for this one, but it sounds like a pretty good place

to dine. See you there—looking forward to it already!

Ulysses

Members

Trades

Directory

You can advertise your business in this publication for $75 per year

(12 Adverts - Business Card Size)

Contact: Jane; Ph. 577 6663

Max Lichtnecker 0274 321 449

or 03 578 1331

Box 938

BLENHEIM

5

Remember…. The DEADLINE

for the next newsletter is 20th September

MINUTES of the last Committee meeting...

Meeting 7th August 2016 Red Cross hall, Redwood Street – Blenheim Meeting started 7pm Attendees: Kelvin Watson, : Gisela Schulze, Evan

Teale, Wayne Brock, Colin Simpson, John Laing, Tom

Brown.

Apologies: Jeff Champion, Jock Woodley, Don Best,

Visitors: Jane Laing

Minutes of previous meeting: True and accurate rec-ord. C. S./T. B. Matters arising. John Laing reported on where toys giv-en to Salvation Army go. Inwards correspondence. Nil Outwards correspondence.

12/07/2016 Email to Marlborough Express re Ulysses garden.

12/07/2016 Email to Sun news paper re Ulysses garden.

12/07/2016 Emails to Mega Mitre 10 and Cloudy Bay Funeral Services re advertising.

23/07/2016 Welcome note and membership applica-tion sent to Dave Jackson and Harry Harrington. T.B./J.L.

Treasurer’s report. Presented. Accounts for payment approved. W.B/C.S General business. Remembrance event in Hanmer Springs. (report ) 7Marlb people turned back at top of Hundalees, & no Nel-son people could get there. Around 60 from south of Chch were there. Marlborough Ulysses Garden. ( plaque ) report. All went well. A vote of thanks to Jeff Champion was moved and passed unanimously. Trials Centre ( advertising ) Tom Brown. They are not interested. August social gathering. ( Redwood Tavern ) Guest speaker. Kelvin said 9 signed up so far. 2016 Toy Run. Toys to Salvation Army, unwrapped. Somebody needs to collect toys from spectators along the way. Poster under action. 2020 AGM ( Blenheim ) update. ( Venue ) Under action. Don Best has a new job so may want to stand down. Tom Brown said he may be able to help. Christmas social. Use car club again.

Sherrif ( Yes Send vote of thanks to Mac ). Jock Wood-ley has volunteered to take over. Rides Calendar: Under action. Marlborough Anniver-sary weekend, there was some discussion about spend-ing Sunday night somewhere other than Pohara. Bikers Breakfast: 19 November 2016 A thank you gift to be organised for the children who helped with the Ulysses Memorial garden. Kelvin. Meeting closed @ 1945hrs Next meeting Our next meeting will be on 4th September. 2016 At the Red Cross Rooms Redwood Street. Blenheim.

EVERYONE WELCOME

A Pommy bloke calls at Australia House in London to get a visa to visit family in Australia.

Chap behind the counter asks, “Do you have a criminal

record?”

Pommy bloke sighs and asks,

“Is that STILL a requirement ......?"

6

RETREADS REPORTS

Sip Inn, Havelock; 21 July

On a nice day amongst a week of mixed weather a small-er than usual group of 13 bikes assembled at the Wairau Bridge for our lunch at the Slip Inn Havelock. Lindsay led the way with a leisurely cruise through to Havelock, ample time to enjoy the freedom that our bikes give us. The Slip Inn was quite busy for a Thursday but in spite of this our meals arrived in good time. Now, have you ever had that awful sinking feeling that you have lost your wallet and the the knowledge that all your credit cards etc etc could fall into the wrong hands ? Well you need to ask Peter Beckett about it. To say he was panicking would be an understatement, out to his bike, into the toilet 3 times, through his jacket at least 3 times, under the table, asking staff if they had found it, checking pants, then asking all the riders to check their jackets. Still no sign of it. Pete was in quite a state, no money no food no wallet. For about the 6th time he checked his own jacket and believe it or not the missing wallet seemed to have got itself into the inside of his apparel. With a huge sigh of relief Peter was able to settle down and finally enjoy a very nice mince hot pot. Was good to see our old friend Alan Grant on the ride having sneaked away from work. Pity his eyes were to big for his belly having ordered a huge plate of wedges flavoured with bacon and tasty sauces, having to resort to begging his adjacent bikers to help him out. Unfortunately Alan had to leave early as he claimed he needed to work to help pay our pensions. Wendy continues to enjoy her Thursday rides now that she has retired. Was lovely to have our old friend Peter Bugler on our ride today on his well presented Spyder. I noticed Ray having a serious look at his machine.

On today's ride were ; Peter Beckett,Lindsay Learmonth, Peter Bugler, Jimmy allan, John Hadfield, Wendy Cham-pion, Ray Beard, Jeff Champion, Alan Grant, Karl Mar-shall and friend Harry Harrington, Danny McGowan and the writer - Murray #3161

28th July 2016 – East Coast Inn, Ward.

For once the weather gurus’ got it right. The promised early morning showers fizzled out pretty quickly and a mild, sunny but blusterous day evolved. Today’s participants included Lindsay Learmonth, Lou Jowers, Danny McGowan, Terry Maloney, John Hadfield, Bruce Windleburn, Tom Brown, Jim Allen, Grant John-ston, Ray Beard, Peter Nelson, me and a newcomer to our group and prospective new Ulyssian, Dave Jackson. Unfortunately Dave couldn’t complete the entire ride to-day as he had to leave us at Ward on the way out to at-tend to some business. In the absence of Murray, Lind-say assumed the role of our leader for the day. It was good to see Lou again. It was his first day back after a three month stint overseas and needless to say he looked pretty relaxed so the trip must have done him some good. Upon arrival at the Inn it didn’t take Lou & Grant long to rearrange the tables on the outside balcony into two rows so we could all sit together as a group. I didn’t hear of any complaints about the food or the service and there was a steady hum of conversation throughout the entire meal so it was obvious everyone was relaxed and enjoy-ing themselves. During the course of the meal two police cars turned into the Inn’s carpark with the intention of having lunch there. As they were pulling in there were some interesting com-ments made by a few of our group which quickly changed to politeness as the two officers passed us on the balcony on their way in to order their lunch. The two officers were quite friendly although one did ask no one in particular whether or not all our bikes were legal. He had a bit of a grin on his face while saying it and promptly disappeared inside the Inn to leave us in peace. They decided to leave at the same time as us so I sug-gested to one of them they should patrol the road south towards Kaikoura rather than northwards back to Blen-heim to which he responded with the nondescript answer of “maybe”. I noticed the first police car pulled out and headed back to Blenheim. I was the last cab off the rank as far as our group was concerned and the second police car was still in the carpark so I decided to exercise caution on the way home just in case. With a fairly blustery headwind and a full belly I was in no hurry and simply relaxed to enjoy a pleasant ride home to draw the curtain down on another successful Retreads outing. Bob #8033

7

SUNDAY RIDE REPORT

24 July 1 o'clock ride to Kekerengu The morning was wet and blustery but I went down to the railway station car park just to see if there would be anyone else keen for a ride this afternoon. By 1 o'clock three others had arrived and then Kelvin stopped by in his car to check out who was out riding and to take a photo just to prove that we were there and that the sun was shining. When we left it was sunny and warm at 13 degrees alt-hough a bit windy. Because it's the last day of the school holidays there’s a heap of traffic on the road, but with a tail wind we were gliding along. Once past the Ure river bridge we were sheltered from the stiff breeze but then the clouds came over and more rain came pelting down. Rob and his friend stopped to turn back at the St. Os-wald church while Jeff and I decided to carry on for after-noon tea. Within a few minutes the rain had blown through and it was fine again. Arriving at the Kekerengu Store cafe we thought it must be a traffic cop’s convention with three traffic cars parked up, they were obviously having afternoon coffees themselves. It was great service from the staff at the café, they were so pleased to see us. We'd finished our afternoon tea and the traffic cops got up and left just before us so we watched them split up and drive off with one heading in our direction. It was an uneventful ride home, again heavy traffic and still quite strong wind gusts head-on in this direction. Catching up with the cop car just after passing through Seddon we followed him for a while before he pulled over, arriving back to Blenheim about 3 o'clock after an enjoyable ride. Thanks for coming out for a ride today, l enjoyed it. Cheers John #5183

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8

RESPONSE TO JOKE IN LAST MONTHS

NEWSLETTER

Hi Jeff,

Further to the colonoscopy story, (from last month?)…

some years ago now-retired Wairau Hospital surgeon Steve Vallance was doing one on me. I was not doped

down, and the viewing screen was placed so that I could see it.

He had almost finished, and the tube was nearly out when he turned the end of it so that the light from it

shone out into the room.

He then said, “And that’s the nearest you will ever get to the light shining out of your arse!”

A man of quirky humour, our Steve.

Cheers, Peter Nelson, 7468

Marfells Beach ride 31st June. 6 bikes on this ride nice sunny day. Three camper vans at the beach, we parked up out of the cold wind, had our lunch and listened to Malcom and Chris discussing the merits of the building trade, which was very interesting. After lunch we headed out to Seddon. Along the Marfells Beach there were a mob of steers milling around by the road side fence. Yes you guessed right, - one of the buggers had jumped the fence and waited until he thought I could not stop then went to run out in front of me. I was braking from warp speed and heading for his rear end. Thinking I could just scrape by his rump he then had a mind change, spun round and bolted back over the fence! I am to old for this. Stopping at Seddon for pies, ice creams and heart tablets Malcom thought it was very funny he said you nearly had him. After a lot more bull discussing all sorts of things (they say women can talk) we headed for home. Come on out for a Sunday ride folks, we do not have to go far and still have a great time. Cheers Tom 5314.

Nelson for Lunch 7 August No Report received for this one, just some photo’s! But I can tell you, 4 riders made the decision to opt for Lambretta’s café instead of Speights Ale House. The road over the hill was in perfect condition and the weather was good. Great day out. Check out the pic’s!

Kaikoura – Fish & Chip Lunch Our ride on the 14th August to the Pier Hotel Kaikoura was great .

Perfect weather 9 bikes left the station and the sea was flat calm with no wind. Kaikoura Ulysses member Alistair met us at the Hotel where we all ordered fish and chips. The food was perfect, dished up in no time and sitting outside by the sea made it perfect. The seaward mountains were amazing with the snow right down to green pastures. After the all the bull we mounted up and rode off to Ward for an ice cream. Only four of us stopped at Ward.—Nice to have Suzy Pouwhare out with us on the Harley today. Cheers Tom 5314.

SUNDAY RIDES REPORTS

9

THANK YOU MAC TRILFORD...

Some of us knew, and some of us didn’t, that at the Mid-Year dinner

this year, Mac Trilford was performing his last duty as our Branch

Sherriff. Yes, after many many years of gathering info, stretching the

truth, encouraging gossip and dishing out fines, Mac has decided to

hand on the mantle and the badge. He’s done a great job, kept us in fits

of laughter at social occasions and raised plenty of $$ for the Branch

coffers in the form of fines for disgraceful behaviour. A few years ago

Mac also donated the ‘Hip to be Disgraceful’ trophy, presented annually

to the person who does the worst (or best?) disgraceful behaviour.

Thank you Mac, we have all enjoyed having you as our Sherriff—you

did an awesome job and you leave big boots to fill.

But those boots have been filled folks, the badge has been handed on!

For those of you feeling left in the lurch, no worries, you still have some-

one to ‘tattle your tales to’. Yes, Jock Woodley is our new Sherriff.

Send him your gossip, stories, information. He will be writing a list so

that he’s ready for the Christmas Do coming up later this year.

Jocks email address for reporting of serious disgraceful behaviour;

jockow@xtra.co.nz

Many Thanks Mac—it’s been a blast!

and Welcome Jock!

‘GUTTED’.

When someone say’s “I haven’t told many people this” - you just know it’s gonna be a tale worth hearing and

perhaps, worth sharing. Told to me second hand, -I think this one is worth repeating...

One of our members was out for a ride recently on his beautiful BMW 1200 RT?. It was a glorious early morning, too

early even for other traffic and the views down the Coast were as usual—absolutely stunning.

He was riding alone, he had the road to himself and he was so taken with the vista’s, he decided to take a few pic’s

with his fancy and rather expensive new cell phone to show others what they were missing.

Not wanting to actually pull over and stop, he decided to hold the phone up as he was riding along and let the phone/

camera do the rest—apparently these new phones do take amazing photographs.

Unfortunately, he hadn’t factored in the strength of the wind while you’re riding and as soon at his hand holding the

phone went up above the wind screen, the phone was whipped out of his hand and before he could say BUGGRIT—

it disappeared over his shoulder and down the road behind him.

He pulled over, climbed off the bike and looked back behind him. He could see something glinting in the early

morning sun, sitting on the brow of the rise he had just ridden over. With faint hope that the phone might have

bounced and would not be too damaged, he felt encouraged to go back, pick up the phone and check it out.

He jumped back on the bike, did a U turn and was about to pull out on the road when all of a sudden a huge truck

came over the brow of the rise towards him. The cell phone was directly in it’s path and it disappeared under the

tyres of that hulking great road train as he sat there, open mouthed and once again,

no time to even utter BUGGRIT!

I’m sure he has learnt a valuable lesson and wont be trying that again in a hurry but I do want to add this...

NOTE to new Sherriff. Hope you’re reading this, it’s up to you of course, but I think, on the face of it—a serious

disgraceful offence has been committed here!

10

h�ps://scootersafari2016.everydayhero.com/nz/Roki

Above is where you need to go to donate to this fantastic cause.

I’m trying to make a difference and support the Cancer Society of New Zealand – a cause I really care about. I’m doing it with Lyn (my wife) by riding a scooter from

Ruapuna near CHCH to Hokitika with 250 other likeminded souls.

My goal is to raise at least $500 to help them continue their important work, and I’d really appreciate it if you

could help by sponsoring me through my Supporter page.

To give to my page, or to read more about why I am doing what I am doing, please visit:

https://scootersafari2016.everydayhero.com/nz/Roki

It would be great if you could spread the word about what

I am doing by sharing the link above with your friends, work mates and family. The more people that know

the more money we can raise! Any small amount donated is going to a great cause – no

amount is too small. Thanks in advance for your generosity – it means a lot!

Mike Porter

Frankton Thunder 4 – 5th March 2017

Following the success of the first Frankton Thunder Event in 2016, we are pleased to announce the 2017 Frankton Thunder Event will be held on March 4th and 5th 2017 In

the heart of the Frankton business area in Hamilton. For a motoring event with Cars and Bikes that will enter-

tain you all weekend.

Featuring Cars and bikes of all motoring disciplines, Bands and Music from yesteryear and today, Tattoo

Competition, Burlesque Show, Miss Frankton Thunder Competition, Markets, Demonstrations, Classic Cars and Bikes, Custom Bikes and Hotrods, Race Bikes and cars

and more.

Now is the time to mark this event on your calendar. –This is one event not to be missed!! –

Frankton Thunder getting bigger and better every year.

Check out the video clip from this year’s event.

https://youtu.be/VTl1_8_wzCc

Check out Frankton Thunder on Facebook for more information

Alan Thoresen Black Thunder Racing NZ

0220172166 info@blackthunder.co.nz

Hi Kelvin , Congratulations on your 25 year milestone that I just read about in the paper. We would like to offer you a discounted stay should you wish to hold a social event at our premises. Located just off State Highway 1 in Seddon, we are the perfect place if you wish to enjoy the Awatere Valley. We have a campground and 12 Private Chalets and a shared Kitchen/ lounge. Perfect for Celebrations! If you would like to know more about us or Swing past to say hello, it would be great to hear from you. Best Regards, Amy p. 03-5757488 Admin Team m. 027 378 1238 Awatere Accommodation 9 Marldene Ave , Seddon e. awatereaccommodation@xtra.co. nz w. www.awatereaccommodation.nz

NEW JOINING FORM

NATCOM have produced a new, updated joining form

for prospective members.

If you want a form for a prospective or new member,

please make sure you download the latest form

from the Ulysses web-site.

Alternatively, ask Kelvin, Jeff or a committee member

for a copy.

Committee NEEDS YOUR HELP

8-10 Marshalls are needed to help with the

Harriers Queen Charlotte Relay on

Saturday 17 September

12noon till approx. 3.30—4pm

Afternoon tea is provided for all Marshalls and a $300

donation is received for our Branch coffers.

We know this is a busy weekend, but if you can help, please contact Kelvin Watson by phoning (03) 5776822

or

email; julia_kelvin@kinect.co.nz by 14th September.

This is something we do every year, it’s easy and

it’s interesting. Is it your turn this year?

11

BITS AND BOBS (things you should probably read)

Westland Hari Hari Rally

Saturday 17th September

Hari Hari Motor Lodge

Book yourselves in by phoning 0800 833 026 Remember to Quote Ulysses when booking in

Theme this year. HEROS and VILLANS

Any Enquiries contact Gary Sinclair.

03 7556216 evenings

SEPTEMBER MID MONTH DINNER

September's monthly dinner will be at

the Argosy Cafe Woodbourne.

Wednesday 14th September. 6-00pm

RSVP to Kelvin by Monday 12th September on Ph. 5776822 or

email julia_kelvin@kinect.co.nz

Many Thanks,

Kind Regards,

Kelvin #3602.

National AGM 2017

Hi Fellow Ulyssians. If you are coming to the National Rally in Masterton Easter 2017. I hope you have

organised your accommodation as it is at a premium with the Balloon Festival and an athletic comp being held on

the same weekend.

We have been in touch with the motels and have let them know that the national Rally is on and several of them are holding rooms for Ulysses members only and

offering discounts. These are Highwayman also South Park Motels. There

are also rooms available at The Acorn motel and BK Chardonnay. They are the ones we have been

able to contact so far.

Please don't try to book via the internet as it will show that these are full as they have blocked that time out on

their booking sites, please ring them.

Looking forward to meeting heaps of you Easter 2017.

Karen Wison #7787 Wairarapa Co-ordinator

NEW SECRETARY NEEDED

Our wonderful Secretary, Jeff Champion has given many

years service to our Branch and is now wanting to step

down and hand the job over to someone else.

Are you that person ?

If you think you can help or would like to know more,

please contact our Coordinator, Kelvin Watson ASAP or

have a chat to Jeff about what’s involved.

HELP WANTED

Our Branch Christmas Party for 2016 is set down on the calendar for 11 December . The venue and the BBQ

are booked and all we need now is an Organiser.

Can you help?

If you can help with this and want to know more, please contact our Branch Coordinator, Kelvin Watson

Marlborough Anniversary Weekend

Same as last year—you have two choices for the long

weekend.

1. Double overnighter at Pohara Beach Holiday Park

2. Tom and Gisela offer an alternative ride. We are going

with everyone to Pohara on Saturday and spending the

first night there. On Sunday we are off to Westport and

staying the night at McManus Hotel. On Monday we are

coming home the long way.

Greymouth, Reefton, Springs Junction, Murchison and

then Blenheim. Should be a fantastic ride. Everyone is

welcome to join us.

Book your own accommodation at Pohara and

McManus Hotel

For further info talk to Gisela or Tom

(contacts on front page)

12

Ulysses NZ, - 27 Years in Marlborough Back in 1988, Allan Edgar #505 was watching a

Television Doco about a new Club that was being

formed in New Zealand. It was called the Ulysses

Club and it was already well established in Austral-

ia. The concept of getting older people out and

about on their bikes really appealed to him, so next

time he was at a meeting of the Marlborough

Road Riders club he sought out Phil Anker to have

a word. Turns out Phil and 3 others had already

joined as affiliated members of the Australian Club

and they were just as enthusiastic as Allan so he

joined the New Zealand Club the very next day

and officially became the fifth Blenheim

member.

Shortly after this, Phil convened a meeting at his

place with himself, Morris James, Alan Barnes,

Murray Fairhurst and Allan Edgar in attendance.

This was the beginning of the Blenheim (later

changed to Marlborough) Branch, Phil was elected

Coordinator and the rest, as they say, is history.

Over the next few years the Branch went from

strength to strength; by 1992 there were 52 mem-

bers and in 1996 - 78 members. The Branch scrap

books show they were (and still are!) a very keen and active bunch –a busy rides & events calendar published

regularly for members and over the years the Ulysses philosophy is at the forefront of everything the Branch does.

A newspaper clipping from March 1989 tells of a weekend get together with 6 Nelson riders for a ride to the top of

Mount Patriach in the Richmond Ranges, - on the second day they rode to Port Underwood and then on round the

Queen Charlotte Scenic route before the Nelson riders departed for home.

Another clipping tells of an invitation; “Blenheim Ulyssians invite other young

at heart Ulyssians to meet them for a Top of the South Challenge at the

Hanmer Forestry camp, 27 – 29 November 1992”.

Our scrap books are a valuable record, not only of rides, rallies, overnighters,

poker runs, fundraisers, dinners and other social occasions, but also of

people – lots of people.

Through 27 years of the Marlborough Branch there have been 9 Coordina-

tors along with many Committee members, Secretary’s. Treasurer’s, Publicity

officers, Rides coordinators and Members.

All of these folk have had a hand in making our Branch the success it is

today. Continued next page….

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On 8 November 2014, members past and present and other

supporters came together to acknowledge 25 years of Ulysses

in Marlborough. It was quite a do. Newer members were

regaled with stories of people and rides past, toasts were

made, lots of laughter, good cheer and Ulysses was celebrat-

ed. At that time, the proposed seat/tree/plaque to mark the

occasion had to be put on hold and it was not until almost 2

years later on 4 August 2016, we were at last able to come

together again to unveil an auspicious little garden in Blenheim

with a seat and a rock with a plaque that tells of our 25 years

of history in the province of Marlborough.

It is our space, gifted to us by Marlborough District Council and

we’re very proud of it. This is great acknowledgement of our

role in the Community with events such as fundraising rescue

rides, marshalling for cycling & harriers, visiting retirement

homes, toy runs and many other things when we are called on to

help out. 25 years of these things add up to a heck of a lot of

community involvement and a lot of money raised!

Ulysses New Zealand National President, Mike Dew was able to

come and unveil the plaque for us (Thanks Mike!). Our new

Coordinator, Kelvin Watson was Master of Ceremonies and our

Secretary Jeff Champion had done a lot of background work to

ensure the event went smoothly. Blenheim School pupils also

came along – they had planted the garden. Once again the

newspapers were keen to take pictures and write articles – more

info for the scrap books and a record for those who come after us.

Currently we have around 150 members- two with Odyssey

medals. A number of members have already received their 25

year membership badges and we remember those members who

are no longer with us.

Like all other Branches we have had our ups and downs and we

are facing the same challenges into the future, but I sincerely

believe if we don’t lose sight of Stephen Dearnley’s original vision

and we continue to keep the Ulysses philosophy at the forefront

of everything we do, Ulysses will prevail, - for another 25 years at

least!

Well done Marlborough Branch.

Jane Laing #6361

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MY RIDE to the REMEMBRANCE SERVICE

6 August 2016 The forecast was for fairly poor weather but I had a nights accommodation booked at the Hanmer Backpackers, so at the crack of dawn Saturday morning I rose packed my bags, rugged up and headed off meeting Lou and Noel in Main Street and departing at 8.00am sharp. The clouds were low and there were a few showers keeping the road surface wet and with the temperature about 5 degrees and a stiff southerly wind gusting, which was whipping up the sea in spectacular spray crashing on the rocks, it was a cool ride but with little traffic made it a good run to Kaikoura. I stopped to get off the seat and stretch my legs and Lou who was just behind pulled up we had a chat and we could see that the snow was quite low on the hillsides and heavy cloud obscuring the tops, the temperature felt much cooler here as well. Just south of Kaikoura there was a road worker stopping all traffic and advising that the weather conditions had de-teriorated and that there was snow and ice on the road. I said I would carry on and see if it was passable on my bike. It was an enjoyable ride along the coast even though it was getting really cold by now. The rain came on again as I was making good time carving up the corners, this is a brilliant length of road for a ride I was really enjoying it. There was the odd seal out of the water resting at the road verge on this section sheltering from the rough sea I presume, as I started up the Hundalee's the rain became heavier, then became sleet, then snow and my bike temperature gauge was flashing ZERO degrees. At the top of the hill I stopped as the snow was falling heavily enough that I had to constantly clear my visor and it was starting to settle as slush on the road, then along came Lou who stopped alongside so I told him and Noel that I was turning around and heading back, knowing that it was quite a bit further to Hanmer and climbing in altitude as well that the riding would probably be more challenging. l was a bit disappointed that I couldn't make it to the Remembrance Service as I think it's an important item on the Ulysses Club calendar as part of our club's tradition, I also love catching up with the other club members from around the South Island. Carefully doing a U turn through the snowy slush at the very top of the hill I gingerly descended back down to sea level where it was only raining and carried on to the Caves cafe for a pot of tea, a stretch and warm up. Had only just paid for my order when Lou and Noel turned up then Kelvin, Julia, Ray and Vic also arrived so the 7 of us all sat around a table for ages chatting, eating and having tea or coffee. Returning home just after 1.00pm it was an uneventful ride from Kaikoura the rain mostly eased off the wind had dried a riding line on the road near Ward even though the clouds were very dark and threatening and there was a hint of hail as I rode past the salt works. In spite of the conditions, At home the jug on for a welcome cup of tea and hang up my wet jacket, the weather was against us getting to Hanmer and I was sorry about that. I had enjoyed the ride. I have a good bike and good riding gear, my body was warm and spirit is always willing! I like to think that we remember those members, no longer with us, and the contribution they made to our Club. I will make it next year - all going well. Cheers John #5083

Confucius Say ….

Joke is like sex. Neither any good if you don't get it.

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RETREADS REPORTS

returning to our group after undergoing some serious op-erations, Kelvin Watson, Danny McGowan, Lindsay Lear-month, John Hadfield on his new MT7, Iain MacDonald, Ray Beard, Graham Howarth, Alan Graham, Terry Malo-ney, Liz & Grant Johnston, Karl Marshall, Graham Check, Chris Donaldson, Brian Pearce recently returned from a trip to Australia, Murray Brooks, Bruce Windleburn & me.

John Sinclair was today’s designated lead rider & I was tail end Charlie. It was a good ride out apart from the chill factor so it was with some relief to arrive at Rai Valley and thaw out. Murray had pre warned the Brick Oven of our intention to dine there today and despite our arrival coinciding with the start of the lunch hour rush, the staff were pretty efficient and it wasn’t too long before we were all munching away quite happily.

It was good to catch up with me old mate Peter Unger who has been traipsing around the world for the last month or so. He made a specific request that I go easy on him today as he is still suffering from the effects of jet lag and therefore not as sharp as usual. I decided to be kind to him for once and not mention him in dispatches today but unfortunately the best of intentions often fly out the window through no fault of my own. During the course of lunch Peter let slip he had suffered a rather bad case of constipation during the last week or so of his trip, and now having returned to NZ things were starting to loosen up, shall we say, with little or no warning. Needless to say this was information we didn’t really need to know and there was some reluctance on the part of those of us in close proximity of Peter to remain seated near- by! I do have to give credit when it is due however & I am pleased to report Peter managed to stay in full control of himself thank goodness.

With lunch over our group slowly dispersed homeward. Peter indicated that Peter & Sacha, Ray & himself were heading to Picton for a coffee & suggested I should join them. I mulled this over between Rai Valley & Havelock before deciding to join them & opted for a ride around Queen Charlotte Drive. Despite the ice grit, the ride was worth it as it was such a blue sky day & the scenery spectacular. It’s a ride I always enjoy, and after another cup of coffee it was time to call it quits & head back home to Blenheim.

Bob #8033

Jolly Roger, 4 August

Was good to see a good turnout at the unveiling of the branches garden in Blenheim today and most of our Re-treads group were there to witness the special occasion. After the ceremony our group of 14 headed to Waikawa Bay to lunch at the Jolly Roger. Nice food although I'm sure the prices have increased since our last visit. Lovely to have two 25 year members in our Retreads group in Lou and Terry. Congratulations you two. Another that will join these two will be Noel Duff next year. Sounds like Lou and Paula had a wonderful time over-seas, it's beaut to have you back again Lou. Gordon Berry appeared out of nowhere to come and give us cheek at the Tavern. Appears he's fallen in love with his new mode of a transport, a 4 wheeled mobility

scoot, I kid you not �, he tells us it's an easy mode of transport to head down to the marina to check his boat in the pens. On today's short ride were Olive & Noel Duff. Lis & Grant Johnston, Iain MacDonald,Graham Check,Karl Mar-shall,Lindsay Learmonth, Ray Beard, Terry Moloney, John Hadfield on his brand new Yamaha twin (see be-low), John Sinclair, Lou Jowers, and the writer. Murray #3161

11th August 2016 – Brick Oven, Rai Valley

Woke up today to clear blue skies but cold as a witch’s tit outside so it was a question of will I or won’t I. After the lousy weather we have had over the last week or so it wasn’t hard to decide to go on today’s ride, not only to blow out the cobwebs, but also to stop myself from going stir crazy as a result of being inactive for some time.

I bowled up to Brayshaw Park to find a huge contingent of like- minded souls rearing to go. Our numbers subse-quently increased as we were joined by others along the way out. All up some 22 odd bikes with 24 bods on board. Not too bad for mid- winter! Today’s attendees included three prospective new members – Peter & Sa-cha Brandon on a K 1300 BMW & Harry Harrington on a Harley. Other participants included Peter Unger fresh from his overseas trip, John Sinclair who is heading to Christchurch next week for a fairly major operation on his

upper spine – we wish you well John, Noel Du

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Ulysses Gear - CAPS

If you would like to purchase this item or any

other item of Ulysses Gear, check out

the Gear on the Ulysses NZ website,

www.ulysses.org.nz

and make a note of what you want.

Then get in touch with me to order.-

That way you don’t have to pay the freight.

Jo de Reeper # 6608

Jo’s contact phone # 579 1173

Jo’s email : jo.dereeper@gmail.com

Quarter-Mistress Corner

Cap with Silver Fern

$20.00

Ladies Cap with Pink

Piping

$15.00

WHAT IS THAT SOUND? A man is driving down the road and breaks down near a monastery. He goes to the monastery, knocks on the door, and says, “My car broke down. Do you think I could stay the night?” The monks graciously accept him, feed him dinner, even fix his car. As the man tries to fall asleep, he hears a strange sound. The next morning, he asks the monks what the sound was, but they say, “We can’t tell you. You’re not a monk.” The man is disappointed but thanks them anyway and goes about his merry way. Some years later, the same man breaks down in front of the same monastery. The monks accept him, feed him, even fix his car. That night, he hears the same strange noise that he had heard years earlier. The next morning, he asks what it is, but the monks reply, “We can’t tell you. You’re not a monk.” The man says, “All right, all right. I’m *dying* to know. If the only way I can find out what that sound was is to be-come a monk, how do I become a monk?” The monks reply, “You must travel the earth and tell us how many blades of grass there are and the exact num-ber of sand pebbles. When you find these numbers, you will become a monk.” The man sets about his task. Forty-five years later, he returns and knocks on the door of the monastery. He says, “I have travelled the earth and have found what you have asked for. There are 145,236,284,232 blades of grass and 231,281,219,999,129,382 sand pebbles on the earth.” The monks reply, “Congratulations. You are now a monk. We shall now show you the way to the sound.”

The monks lead the man to a wooden door, where the head monk says, “The sound is right behind that door.” The man reaches for the knob, but the door is locked. He says, “Real funny. May I have the key?” The monks give him the key, and he opens the door. Behind the wooden door is another door made of stone. The man demands the key to the stone door. The monks give him the key, and he opens it, only to find a door made of ruby. He demands another key from the monks, who provide it. Behind that door is another door, this one made of sapphire. So it went until the man had gone through doors of emer-ald, silver, topaz, and amethyst. Finally, the monks say, “This is the last key to the last door.” The man is relieved to no end. He unlocks the door, turns the knob, and behind that door he is amazed to find the source of that strange sound. But I can’t tell you what it is because you’re not a monk!

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He needed a push...

A man and his wife were awakened at 3:00 am by a loud pounding on the door. The man gets up and goes to the door where a drunken stranger, standing in the pouring rain, is asking for a push. "Not a chance," says the husband, "it is 3:00 in the morning!" He slams the door and returns to bed. "Who was that?" asked his wife.. "Just some drunk guy asking for a push," he answers. "Did you help him?" she asks. "No, I did not, it's 3 am in the morning and it's bloomin' well pouring with rain out there!" "Well, you have a short memory," says his wife. "Can't you remember about three months ago when we broke down, and those two guys helped us? I think you should help him, and you should be ashamed of yourself! God loves drunk people too you know." The man does as he is told, gets dressed, and goes out into the pound-ing rain. He calls out into the dark, "Hello, are you still there?" "Yes," comes back the answer. "Do you still need a push?" calls out the husband. "Yes, please!" comes the reply from the dark. "OK where are you?" asks the husband. "Over here on the swing," replied the drunk.

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Organiser for this year is Gisela Schulze—please contact her if you can help in any way.

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DATE DAY TIME DETAILS RIC

Every

week

Thursdays 11am Retreads group ride . Meet at Brayshaw Park carpark, all mem-

bers and visitors Welcome

Murray Brooks

28 Aug Sunday 10am Join us for a long ride to Murchison for lunch at Beeches Café.

Return via Korere, Top House road, p stop @ St Arnaud then

Wairau Pub. All members and new Riders welcome

Tom

4 Sept Sunday 11am We’re heading to Anakiwa for a picnic lunch—BYO food & drink.

Diversion on the return home via Pelorus Bridge for an ice

cream. All members and visitors welcome.

Tom

4 Sept Sunday 7pm Branch Committee meeting, Red Cross Rooms,

All members welcome.

Jeff Champion

11 Sept Sunday 1pm Social ride to Ward Tea Rooms for coffee. New folk welcome. Tom /John

14 Sept Wednes-

day

6pm Mid month dinner at Argosy Café, Woodbourne. Please RSVP

your attendance to Kelvin by Monday 12 Sept. (contacts front

cover)

Kelvin Watson

18 Sept Sunday 10am Longer ride to Motueka for lunch @ Mooring café. Return via

upper Moutere highway, Brightwater, Nelson

Tom /John

25 Sept Sunday 11am Social ride to St Arnaud for lunch at Clinker Café. New Riders

welcome

Tom /John

MARLBOROUGH RIDES & EVENTS CALENDAR

SUNDAY RIDES; Unless otherwise stated, all Sunday Rides leave from the south end

of Blenheim Railway Station car-park—check the rides calendar.

MID WEEK RIDES; Thursdays, depart Brayshaw Park car-park 11am—check with

Murray Brooks if in doubt.

Come on your bike or in your car, it doesn’t matter, just come along and join in.

If you have an idea for a ride, get in touch with the Rides Coordinators

LOOKING ON DOWN THE ROAD...

FURTHER ON DOWN THE ROAD...

17 Sept; Westland Branch Hari Hari Rally. Book accommodation @ Hari Hari Motor Lodge Ph. 0800 833 026 (Quote Ulysses when booking) The theme for this year is ‘Hero’s and Villans’ Further info; Gary Sinclair Ph, (03)7556216 19 Nov; Bikers Brekkie at the Convention centre in Blenheim. Speakers, trade stalls etc. 22-24 Oct; Greymouth Street races. Group ride details & accommodation contact Tom Brown Ph; (03)579 3106

29-31 Oct; Marlborough Anniversary weekend Double overnighter, Two choices; 1. to Pohara Beach Holiday Park for 2 nights. Book accommodation now Ph, 0800 764272,

2nd choice; Sat night at Pohara beach as above and Sun night at McManus Hotel in West-port with great riding each day. Return home via Greymouth, Springs Junction on the Mon-day. Book your own accommodation at Pohara Holiday Park and McManus Hotel. 24-27 Nov; Burt Munro Challenge, Invercargill—you should have your accommodation booked by now. 10 Dec; Marlborough Branch annual Toy Run 11 Dec; SAVE THE DATE Branch Christmas Party— more details later. 27-29 Jan 2017; Woodstock Rally, Hokitika 23 Feb 2017; Marlborough Branch AGM 14-16 Apr 2017; National AGM & social weekend, Masterton, Wairarapa. This is Easter weekend so book your accommodation NOW (Quote Ulysses when booking)

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Our newsletter is proudly sponsored by…..

SENDER; Ulysses Club of New Zealand Inc, MARLBOROUGH Branch. If undelivered please return to The Secretary, 23 Bary Street, Blenheim 7201