Event date: 9 June 2024

On Sunday 9 June, BMWDCM hosted a drive around the Mornington Peninsula, with stops to collect some honey (thankfully not directly from the hives!) and to enjoy a pub lunch together. 

For me, it began with a rainy drive to Moorooduc. If I may side-track for a moment: if you don't drive far each year, please check the age of your tyres. BMW USA recommends replacing tyres every 8 years; I've had tyres about this old that had plenty of tread left and were fine in the dry, but terrible once the roads were wet. Back on topic, thankfully it stopped raining near Moorooduc and stayed mostly clear for the rest of the drive. 

Our first destination was Pure Peninsula Honey, where we stocked up on honey and honey-related products, such as honey-infused vinegar and pickles. After a quick driver's briefing, we hit the road towards the coast and then the twisty roads. There were about 20 cars on the drive and I volunteered to be "tail-end Charlie" of the second group, which involves making radio calls to the group leader that the back of the group has made it through a particular turn. Or not, as the case may be! Due to a break in Convoy Procedure, Graham T and I didn't see the other cars make a turn, so we missed it. We headed towards Dromana to regroup. Due to our detour, I'd assumed that were now somewhere behind the rest of group two, so it was a surprise to everyone involved when the cars from group one started coming past us while we were pulled over! We then resumed our correct position in the group and enjoyed the squiggly road up to the Arthur's Seat lookout.

After a quick stretch of the legs at the lookout, it was onwards to the Pig & Whistle tavern for lunch. However, drive-leader Peter has a knack for finding great driving roads, so we took a very indirect and enjoyable route to get there. My favourite part was the series of tight corners around the valley. Danny and I also took a bit longer than most, since we were nerding-out in the carpark about the glorious E39 5-Series sedans and wagons (second in greatness to only the E30 3-Series model range!!). Inside the tavern, we were given our own private room, so it was great to have our own space to chat over lunch. I was at a table with Danny, Helen, Mark and Paul, who were all good company. My lunch selection was fish'n'chips, washed down nicely with a local mid-strength beer. It also turns out that our function room was a theatre, and the younger club members (Harper, Payton and Olivia) needed no invitation to jump up on stage and put on a funny Magic Show for us older folk to enjoy.

Thank you to Peter, Jo and our convoy leaders for running a really fun day out.

Simon de Lisle | Member #430
BMW Drivers Club Melbourne