Hi folks - Just received the latest NewConrod (LDMCC Newsletter) and Doug Frost has done a great job promoting our 3rd Australian Douglas Rally to be held in late September. Plans for the rally are now well under way and entries are coming in steadily. To date we have entrants coming from ACT, NSW, QLD, TAS, USA and VIC. SA, WA and perhaps UK yet to be represented.
Our rally is based out of Halls Gap (VIC) situated in the heart of the Grampians National Park. The run is being hosted by our local club, the Wimmera Mallee Historical Vehicle Society, which was founded in 1968 !. Late September is Spring and the country should be a picture (unlike the last few years due to drought). Weather can be typical spring at that time of year, but if we are fortunate, the days can be magnificent. It's a great place to visit, especially if you are a 'first timer'. It's pleasing to note that of the entries received to date, the majority are bringing along wives/partners for what should be a very enjoyable four days.
The Grampian Range, unlike the ranges on the East Coast are surrounded on three sides by flat plains. Halls Gap sits on the northern end. We do plan to incorporate tours to some of the lookouts in the range itself which will involve some climbing, but nothing serious, as well as explore some of the areas around and about.
Norval Convention Centre, our 'home' for the duration, offers a terrific base for our rally. Situated approx. 3km (easy walking) south of the Halls Gap shopping centre, it is set in 20 acres of natural bush. It offers the great advantage that everyone is under the one roof and is extremely comfortable, especially if we are unlucky enough to experience a wet day or two.
I have received one or two queries regarding cost and alternatives. Please be aware the rally costs (to stay at Norval) include everything, bar bedsheets, pillows and alcoholic beverage (will be available). That is three meals each day (including cooked breakfast), tea/coffee/biscuits on tap 24/7, as well as a room with ensuite facilities. Norval will also provide us with a packed lunch, if we are away from the centre. Halls Gap as a popular tourist destination some 30km from the nearest main town (Stawell), and general accomodation/meals for tourists offers no bargains. We have tried to keep the cost as attractive as possible, and feel sure that the overall cost of the rally is comparable to staying at a caravan park cabin and eating out. If however, you would prefer to enter the rally and stay elsewhere, please feel free to contact me for a list of alternatives, as we would still love to have you there.
Overall - I believe we have the basis for a great rally. It is as much about people as it is Douglas Motorcycles. I would encourage anyone with an interest in Duggies (even if you don't have a bike, or are part way into a restoration) to enter. We will do our best to make you welcome. Our aim is to keep it the rally low key and send everyone off home on Friday feeling they have had a great week.
Remember - get your entry in. Earlybirds do make it a lot easier on the organizers. Entries officially close July 31st 2010
Got a query - do not hesitate to ask.
Cheers to all
Nev Thomas
