This drive was something a little different, starting later than usual with a lovely late‑lunch and afternoon tea at Lady Lavender’s in Bunyip. Many of us arrived early to wander the beautiful grounds before stepping inside to what felt like stepping back into the 1800s, a charming, old‑world tearoom serving a proper English Devonshire Tea (or Cornish, depending on whether it’s jam first or cream first). The scones were freshly baked and absolutely worth the wait, with fruit, plain, and of course lavender varieties to choose from.
After tea, we gathered in the car park, surrounded by a stunning line up of BMWs including a fully electric BMW, which is great to see, with a perfect without having to recharge. We had a few special guests: a gorgeous Jaguar, a Mercedes, and a BYD. It’s always wonderful to see members bring their “other” cars out to enjoy the day, too.
Once the drivers’ briefing was done, we split into informal lead and rear groups. Peter led the front group, while Graeme and I took the rear, although technically, young Ben ended up leading our group in his Dad’s L‑plated BMW E39 540i. And might I say, he did an exceptional job. I handled the radio calls in our car, but Ben was our true lead car, and it was lovely watching his confidence grow throughout the afternoon. A big credit also goes to Simon, his Dad, who was the perfect instructor in the passenger seat. Well done, Ben! You made us all proud.
Ben said of his day, “It was a fun day, seeing all the nice cars and fast BMWs lined up. The roads were nicely winding, and it was a great driving experience. I enjoyed leading the second group. The pub at the end of the drive was great, and a nice dinner to finish the day. It was fun to see everyone, and I look forward to the next drive”
We made a couple of comfort stops and took a few photos along the way. A few cars left us part‑way through, but we also picked up a few more, so our numbers stayed steady.
The weather made the day even better, a perfect Victorian autumn afternoon in the mid-20s. A few convertibles had their roofs down, soaking up the sunshine. The roads were exceptional, winding through some of the most beautiful scenery this part of the world has to offer. With Ben leading, Graeme and I even had a chance to relax and enjoy the countryside, another thank you to Ben.
We all arrived at the Kilcunda Pub, with the first group about 15 minutes ahead and already ordering. Some of our group headed home from there, while the rest of us joined the others for a wonderful evening of good food, great company, and plenty of laughs.
One of the things that makes me so proud of our club is the families who join us, kids in the back seats, kids on the radios, kids learning to drive with confidence and care. Young Tilly on the UHF today was a delight. When the next generation wants to be part of our events, we know we’re doing something right.
A quick reminder: we strongly encourage everyone to have a good-quality UHF radio, ideally 5 watts and, if possible, with an external antenna. It makes a huge difference to communication and helps keep the whole group safe and together.
Thank you to everyone who joined us, our new members, our regulars, and the families who trust us enough to let their kids take the wheel on these drives. And a special thank you to Peter for organising such fantastic driving roads. He and I make a great team. He handles the route planning, and I take care of the bookings and make sure everyone gets where they need to be on time.
Graeme and I thoroughly enjoyed this drive, and it was wonderful seeing him looking so well and enjoying everyone’s company. We’re already looking forward to the long weekend in June for our next club adventure.
Thank you all for making today such a memorable and happy day out.
Jo Mawson #2
